Zespri emblem

Zespri is looking to make an investment in the future through a new graduate recruitment programme.

New Zealand’s single-desk kiwifruit marketer will make two positions available to recent university graduates, which will offer the successful applicants 18 months experience working across Zespri’s international business. This will include a six-month overseas placement.

Zespri’s global sourcing partner, Bernadette Ryan-Hopkins, said the graduate scheme would ensure Zespri remained a market leader in the global fresh produce business.

“The kiwifruit industry is looking at serious growth– with export revenue set to triple to $3 billion by 2025 – and Zespri wants the brightest and best employees onboard to grow our business,” Ryan-Hopkins explained. “This new graduate recruitment scheme is part of our commitment to develop the future leaders of this industry.”

While skills in languages, horticulture, marketing, IT and finance will be highly regarded; Ryan-Hopkins said the company was ultimately looking for candidates with professional attitudes and drive to succeed.

“The successful applicants will also have a senior executive mentor for their time at Zespri – an excellent opportunity to get advice from someone who’s worked their way through the business,” Ryan-Hopkins said.