Lead Operation Breeding

Axia Vegetable Seeds is an innovative and internationally operating company specializing in the development of high-quality tomato varieties for the professional greenhouse horticulture sector. From our locations in Naaldwijk, we work every day on genetics that contribute to productivity, sustainability, and taste. Due to the continued growth and professionalization of our organization, we are looking for a Lead Operation Breeding (Seed Production, Pollination & Extraction) who will play a key role in our breeding and seed production activities.

What are you going to do?

As Lead Operation Breeding, you will be ultimately responsible for the operational execution of the breeding process and seed production in the greenhouse. You will lead the Operation Breeding team and ensure the efficient, high-quality, and scalable execution of all activities related to pollination, crossings, and seed processing. You act as the connecting link between Breeding, Greenhouse Operations, and Seed Production, while actively contributing to the further professionalization, standardization, and optimization of our processes. In addition to leadership responsibilities, you will be closely involved in the execution and improvement of pollination techniques, seed production, and seed processing activities.

Tasks and Responsibilities

Leadership & Coordination

• Lead, coach, and develop the Operation Breeding / pollination team
• Create daily planning and task allocation
• Monitor pace, quality, and progress of activities
• Train and instruct (new) employees

Pollination & Breeding Processes

• Coordinate and execute manual pollination and crossings
• Coordinate and execute emasculation and seed set activities
• Monitor flower quality, maturity, and plant condition
• Execute and supervise breeding activities (line combinations, test crosses)

Seed Production & Processing

• Responsible for greenhouse seed production processes
• Responsible for harvesting and processing of fruit material
• Responsible for seed extraction, drying, and cleaning according to protocol
• Final responsibility for breeding seed counting
• Final responsibility for breeding seed samples
• Ensure correct labeling, batch management, and traceability
• Collaborate with stock seed production teams and production groups

Quality, Registration & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with GSPP and hygiene protocols
• Control and register crossing data
• Control and register production quantities
• Control and register lineage and phenotype information
• Identify deviations (diseases, pollination issues, plant development)
• Conduct field inspections (varietal purity, yield, plant health)

Process Optimization & Improvement

• Standardize and improve work processes
• Optimize labor efficiency and resource allocation
• Actively contribute to scaling up seed production
• Initiate and execute experiments to improve yield and quality
• Collect and analyze data

Collaboration

• Work closely with Breeders
• Work closely with Greenhouse Management
• Work closely with Operational Teams
• Identify bottlenecks and propose solutions

Competences

• HBO/Bachelor working and thinking level (Horticulture, Plant Science, or similar)
• Experience in greenhouse horticulture, breeding, and/or seed production
• Demonstrable experience with pollination techniques is a strong advantage
• Leadership skills and experience coordinating teams
• Strong organizational, planning, and process-oriented mindset
• Hands-on, pragmatic, and results-driven
• Accurate and quality-conscious (audit-proof working)
• Data-driven with a continuous improvement mindset
• Good command of Dutch and English

What we offer

• A key position within a growing and innovative organization
• Direct impact on the development of new tomato varieties
• A broad role with both managerial and operational responsibilities
• A dynamic working environment with short communication lines
• Competitive salary and appropriate employment conditions