Business Operations Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Business Operations Manager

Burke Hill Farm – Organic Wild Blueberry Farm

Position Summary

The Business Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the administrative, financial, customer service, sales, and marketing functions of Burke Hill Farm. This position serves as the primary point of contact for customers and business partners while ensuring the smooth operation of the farm's direct-to-consumer and wholesale business.

Working closely with the owner, this role coordinates seasonal sales and delivery logistics, manages financial records and payroll, supports marketing initiatives, maintains regulatory compliance, and assists with strategic business development. Success in this role requires exceptional organization, attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, seasonal agricultural business.

Primary Responsibilities

Customer Service & Communications

• Serve as the primary contact for all customer inquiries through email, social media, and website communications.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with retail and wholesale customers.
• Resolve customer questions and concerns promptly and professionally.
• Maintain accurate customer records and order information.

Sales & Delivery Coordination

• Manage retail and wholesale sales throughout the season.
• Plan, organize, and coordinate two to three monthly wild blueberry delivery routes throughout New England.
• Create, distribute, and manage online order forms for each delivery route using Google Forms and Formfacade.
• Coordinate order processing, route schedules, pickup locations, and customer communications.
• Monitor sales trends and identify opportunities to increase revenue and customer retention.

Marketing & Social Media

• Develop and schedule social media content that reflects the Burke Hill Farm brand.
• Promote seasonal harvest updates, delivery schedules, and special promotions.
• Create marketing materials, email communications, and customer announcements.
• Help grow customer engagement through consistent storytelling and community outreach.

Financial Management & Bookkeeping

• Maintain accurate financial records using QuickBooks.
• Process accounts payable and accounts receivable.
• Manage payroll and payroll records.
• Reconcile accounts and prepare financial information for accountants.
• Assist with budgeting and monitor business expenses.

Administrative & Business Operations

• Maintain organized digital and paper filing systems.
• Prepare and submit business licenses, permits, and annual regulatory paperwork.
• Maintain business records and documentation.
• Coordinate office operations and administrative processes.
• Ensure deadlines for reporting and renewals are met.

Business Development Support

• Assist the owner with grant research, grant writing, and grant reporting.
• Support business planning initiatives and special projects.
• Help identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and customer experience.
• Participate in strategic planning discussions and business growth initiatives.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Marketing, Agriculture, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience in bookkeeping and payroll.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines independently.
• High level of professionalism and attention to detail.

Preferred Technical Skills

• QuickBooks
• Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Forms, Drive)
• Formfacade
• Microsoft Office
• Social media platforms including Facebook and Instagram
• Basic graphic design experience (Canva or similar is a plus)

Desired Characteristics

The ideal candidate is:

• Highly organized and dependable.
• Comfortable working independently with minimal supervision.
• Friendly, professional, and customer-focused.
• Detail-oriented and accurate with financial and administrative tasks.
• Adaptable to the changing priorities of a seasonal farming business.
• Passionate about supporting local agriculture and small businesses.

Physical Requirements

• Primarily home office-based with occasional work at the farm and delivery locations.
• Flexibility to work additional hours during harvest season and peak sales periods.

Reports To

Owner

Position Purpose

This position plays a vital leadership role in ensuring Burke Hill Farm operates efficiently while providing exceptional customer service and maintaining the trusted relationships that have made the farm a valued source of organic Maine wild blueberries throughout New England.