A lot of farms are hiring employees because they are expanding. To enhance the involvement of new employees, farmers need to learn how to design their organization. Also, in a rapidly changing world, farmers are well advised to reflect on their strategy and to consider what the future might bring and how this will affect their organization. This is where Agrocoach comes into the picture.

Agrocoach can help

Agrocoach is a “learning network”-concept. During 8 evenings, 8 to 10 agricultural entrepreneurs learn about and discuss the concepts of innovative labour organization.

A diverse workforce demands attention

Jan Gielis attended Agrocoach because he realized his company needed an organizational change at the level of people and business management. Jan Gielis and his son run an ornamental horticultural company, together with 6 permanent employees.

During busy periods they are assisted by 5 to 10 seasonal workers, a few student workers and 15 unemployed people gaining work experience. They grow sempervivum, succulent plants, cacti and aloe. Belgicactus has a very diverse workforce that needs special attention.

During the sessions with Agrocoach, Jan designed a first action plan. After finishing the programme he further elaborated this plan together with a private consultant of Flanders Synergy and Innovatiesteunpunt, who developed and optimized the concept together.

More entrepreneurship

As a result, Belgicactus revised their vision and strategy. They have undertaken actions to stimulate their employees to be more entrepreneurial and their current aim is to produce one new specialty every year. The communication strategy is now linked to the product innovation.

Video

Watch a video about Belgicactus – an innovative labour organization

About Agrocoach

Agrocoach is a “learning network”-concept that was initiated by Innovatiesteunpunt, an advisory service in Flanders, and developed and optimized in collaboration with Flanders Synergy, a management and HR competence center. Up till now, Innovatiesteunpunt has organized 4 professionalized Agrocoach sessions.