About Company
Rwanda Mountain Tea (RMT) is a premier tea producer and exporter, recognized globally for its high-quality black and green teas grown in the fertile volcanic soils of Rwanda. Established with a vision to revitalize Rwanda’s tea industry, RMT manages several tea estates and factories across the country, including the renowned Gisovu Tea Estate. We are committed to sustainable agricultural practices, environmental stewardship, and the socio-economic development of the communities in which we operate. Our dedication to excellence extends from the tea bush to the cup, ensuring that every leaf harvested meets stringent international quality standards. RMT plays a vital role in Rwanda’s economy, providing employment to thousands and contributing significantly to the nation’s export earnings. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented environment, where innovation and tradition blend to produce exceptional teas.
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Job Description
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Tea Estate Manager to oversee all aspects of operations at our Gisovu Tea Estate in the Nyamasheke District. This is a pivotal leadership role responsible for the efficient and sustainable management of the entire tea production cycle, from cultivation and harvesting to primary processing and quality assurance. The Tea Estate Manager will be the ultimate custodian of the estate, tasked with optimizing yield, ensuring exceptional tea quality, managing a large workforce, and maintaining the estate’s infrastructure and biodiversity. This role requires a blend of strong agricultural expertise, strategic planning, financial acumen, and exceptional people management skills. The ideal candidate will be a visionary leader capable of driving productivity, implementing best practices in tea cultivation and processing, and fostering a positive and productive work environment while adhering strictly to company policies and international certifications like Rainforest Alliance and UTZ.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee all daily operations of the Gisovu Tea Estate, ensuring efficient and high-quality tea production from field to factory.
- Develop and implement strategic plans for tea cultivation, harvesting, and processing to maximize yield and quality.
- Manage and motivate a diverse team of agricultural and factory staff, including recruitment, training, performance management, and disciplinary actions.
- Ensure strict adherence to all agricultural best practices, environmental regulations, and international quality standards (e.g., Rainforest Alliance, UTZ).
- Monitor tea bush health, pest and disease control, soil management, and fertilizer application programs.
- Manage estate budgets, control operational costs, and ensure efficient utilization of resources.
- Oversee the maintenance and upgrade of estate infrastructure, including irrigation systems, factory machinery, and staff housing.
- Implement and enforce health and safety protocols across all estate and factory operations.
- Prepare comprehensive reports on production, quality, costs, and workforce performance for senior management.
- Foster positive relationships with local communities, government bodies, and other stakeholders.
- Drive sustainability initiatives and explore innovative practices to enhance ecological balance and resource efficiency.
Required Skills
- Minimum 5 years of proven experience in managing a large-scale tea estate or similar agricultural enterprise.
- Demonstrated expertise in tea cultivation, agronomy, and processing techniques.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to inspire and manage a large workforce.
- Excellent financial management and budgeting abilities.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English; knowledge of Kinyarwanda is a significant advantage.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
- Commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and ethical labor standards.
- Ability to work effectively in a challenging and dynamic rural environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agronomy, or a related field.
- Experience with international certification standards such as Rainforest Alliance, UTZ, or Fair Trade.
- Proficiency in additional local languages.
- Familiarity with modern agricultural technologies and data analysis for optimizing farm operations.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Company-provided housing on the estate.
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
- Annual leave and public holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
- Transport allowance or company vehicle for official duties.
- Access to a vibrant and supportive community within the estate.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the above qualifications are invited to submit their detailed CV and a cover letter outlining their experience and suitability for this role. Please click on the application link below to apply for the job.
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