Head of Tea

Head of Tea

Management Systems (Pvt) Ltd

A leading, vertically integrated agribusiness with a strong international presence is seeking an accomplished professional to head the Tea Department to lead its sourcing, quality and commercial operations. Renowned for producing premium Ceylon Tea.

This is an opportunity for an experienced tea professional to provide strategic leadership in the Tea Department, influencing sourcing decisions, quality standards and the future direction of a globally recognised portfolio.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the organisation's sourcing and procurement strategy to ensure sustainable supply, quality and commercial competitiveness.
• Lead all tea buying, tasting and quality evaluation activities while maintaining the highest product standards.
• Build and strengthen relationships with brokers, estates, suppliers and industry stakeholders.
• Monitor auction trends, market intelligence and global tea dynamics to support purchasing decisions.
• Oversee pricing, costing and inventory optimisation while ensuring commercial viability.
• Champion continuous improvement, innovation and best practices across tea operations.

Requirements/Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years' experience in the tea industry, including extensive expertise in tea buying, tasting and quality management.
• Proven leadership experience in managing tea operations within a large or internationally focused organisation.
• Strong commercial acumen with demonstrated success in sourcing, negotiation, pricing and supplier relationship management.
• Comprehensive understanding of tea manufacturing, grading, blending principles, quality assurance and international tea markets.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation and decision-making skills.
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage change and deliver strategic business outcomes.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to work effectively with industry regulators, suppliers and international partners.
• A degree in Business Management, Agriculture, Food Science, Plantation Management, or Business.
• Professional qualifications in tea tasting or plantation management will be an advantage.
• High levels of integrity, professionalism and a passion for excellence.