Job title: Crop Breeding Manager – Tomato
Company: Enza Zaden
Highest level of education: MSc. in plantbreeding

Introduction
I work as Crop Breeding Manager – Tomato for Enza Zaden. ENZA ZADEN is an international seed company and one of the only independent family companies in the business. For more information also find the infographic. I have been in this position for 2 years, previously I worked as a Breeder. As manager my main responsibility is: Managing, Coaching, and Motivating a group of (international) breeders. What I appreciate most about this work is the diversity, working across cultures, developing new products & concepts.

How did you encounter this position?
I sent an open application.

Can you tell a little bit about the application process you went through?
Fresh out the university I did an open solicitation for the function of tomato breeder, without any experience (but with passion & green fingers) they hired me.

What was challenging for you when you started in this position?
Breeding is often a matter of experience. At the time I started I learned a lot by doing & making mistakes. Nowadays the introduction period is better so although making mistakes is still possible (and sometimes needed) there is more time to gain experience in a more protected environment.

Do you have any tips for career seekers in your field?
Be persistent and passionate. Take the opportunity of traineeships, working experiences, this helps you to get introduced/get experienced in plant breeding.