ON THE MARKET FLOOR

The role played by the market manager is one of the most complex and challenging in the fresh-produce sector. For those who occupy this key post, it’s often a case of, ‘Damned if you do, damned if you don’t’. Whatever decision you take, somebody will be dissatisfied.

But managers are there to make decisions in the interests of the business, not to please people.

UNDER PRESSURE

The perishability of fresh produce puts decision-making under pressure at the best of times. Now add a slew of laws and rules that have to be considered by management, who are expected to make decisions while juggling all those balls in the air.

Fresh produce, being perishable, cannot wait for a committee to reach a decision; it requires on-your-feet thinking and decision-making.

Apart from having to take decisions about the produce, managers are also required to address issues such as infrastructure, human and cash security, cleanliness and data capture. They also have the unpalatable job of judging between dissatisfied parties. Not all farmers can take criticism of their produce, and this could end in an altercation with their agent. It is here where the market manager can act as a referee.

A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD

Managers are also expected to promote their market to official structures and the wider world. There was a time when managers of some of the bigger markets attended farmers’ days and other important functions where they could meet their clients. Those with a budget set up stands at conferences, printed leaflets to promote their market, and made sure their market was known.

In the final analysis, the role of the market manager is to establish a level playing field for all role players.

THEY ALSO HAVE THE UNPALATABLE JOB OF JUDGING BETWEEN DISSATISFIED PARTIES