What do they do?

A tea garden manager is a person wholly and solely responsible for running a tea estate. His area of activity encompasses production management, tea husbandry involving plant physiology, entomology, industrial relations, labour management and liaison with various government departments. He even has to oversee purchase of materials, do financial management, cost management, collective bargaining with unions, factory management, etc.

Skills Needed

• Knowledge of the tea market
• Knowledge of labour laws
• Ability to communicate with labourers and workers
• Have sound leadership qualities
• Presence of mind, quick thinking, courage to face and settle labour disputes
• Fair knowledge of the topography of tea estates

How do I get there?

One can get into a tea estate after graduation and pick up skills while working in a tea garden. However, these days, a degree in agricultural science or a BSc in botany, food sciences, horticulture or allied fields is preferred. Candidates who have specialised in business management or marketing are recruited for marketing jobs. Then there are many institutes that give training in tea management. There, one can learn about tea production, processing, finance, marketing and sales.