Kerry Reber
Castlemaine,VIC
Summary
Experienced horticulturist with over two decades in the industry, showcasing exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of the field. Strong business acumen, successfully managing projects and teams, consistently delivering outstanding results.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Education and Events Manager
The Diggers Foundation
Dromana, VIC
06.2022 - 06.2024
- Lead the creation and the execution of content strategy to drive online audience growth and enhance brand positioning.
- Develop and facilitate the annual education program and online education initiatives to increase member value.
- Provide educational outreach and training.
- Plan and administrator a high-level national events plan, ensuring adherence to budget and seamless logistics.
- Collaborate cross-functionally to align content and messaging with organisational goals.
Business Development & Marketing Manager
Australian Ecosystems
Bangholme, VIC
11.2020 - 06.2022
- Streamline internal processes to enhance overall efficiency, ultimately resulting in increased revenue generation.
- Expand market reach through event hosting, award submissions, and industry networking.
- Trade show participation, showcasing products/services to prospective clients and generating valuable leads.
- Increase client base by developing and implementing strategic marketing plans and sales initiatives.
- Develop and coordinate comprehensive communication strategies, including content creation and distribution across various channels.
Director
Melbourne Total Landscaping Pty Ltd
Hurstbridge, VIC
01.2009 - 01.2020
- Landscape design includes plant selection, irrigation and hardscapes.
- Project management includes scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation.
- Contracting and negotiation, ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Providing guidance, motivation, and ensuring safety on job sites.
- Financial management includes budgeting, cost estimation, and financial planning.
- Monitoring expenses, revenue, and profitability of projects.
- Expand market reach through event hosting, award submissions, and industry networking.
- Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
Category Manager
John Danks & Sons
Moorabbin, VIC
01.2007 - 01.2009
- Develop procurement and merchandise strategies, negotiate pricing and terms for increased profitability.
- Managing three categories: Garden-care, Garden tools and Green-life across three states Vic, Tas & SA, including regular interstate travel to strengthen partnerships.
- Lead supplier negotiation process for managed categories.
- Manage a diverse portfolio of products, ensuring optimal mix between high-margin items and cost-effective options for customers.
- Monitor industry trends to identify new business opportunities and emerging product categories for expansion.
- Establish and maintain relationships with over 400 wholesale nurseries and 850 retail nurseries nationally.
- Execute marketing initiatives in collaboration with the publishing department.
Horticultural & Environmental Consultant
Peter C. Harrison Pty. Ltd./ David Pullar & Associates
Collingwood, VIC
01.2002 - 01.2007
- Coordinate closely with external stakeholders including government agencies, non-profit organisations, and local communities during major project initiatives.
- Conduct research and reporting on complex and diverse projects such as farm management plans, organic certification, recycled water strategy development, and significant tree studies.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to achieve successful project outcomes on time and within budget.
- Enhanced client satisfaction with timely delivery of high-quality reports.
Horticultural Technician
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
Melbourne, VIC
01.2000 - 01.2002
- Curate the Californian Garden and botanical collections within this prestigious public park.
- Perform accurate plant identification and assessment to ensure suitable choices for specific environmental conditions.
- Improve overall garden aesthetics through meticulous maintenance of plants, trees, and shrubs.
- Collaborate with team members to complete large-scale landscaping projects within tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality standards.
- Contribute to a safe work environment by following all safety protocols when operating machinery and handling chemicals.
Education
Permaculture Certificate 4 -
THE PERMAFOREST TRUST
01.2007
Bachelor of Applied Science in Horticulture -
UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
01.2000
Advanced Certificate in Horticulture -
HOLMESGLEN COLLEGE
01.1997
Skills
- Horticulture knowledge & expertise
- Business acumen
- Marketing & communications
- Education
- Event management
- Project management
- Research and report-writing
- Margin management
- Team building
- Strategic partnerships
Certification
- Current First Aid Certificate
- Current CPR Certificate
- Working with Children Check
- White Card
- Leda Training & Mentorship
References
- Tim Sansom, CEO, The Diggers Foundation, 0458 648 719
- Rachel Blazey, Philanthropy & Partnerships Manager, The National Trust, 0413 112 362
- Jan Lockwood, People and Culture Manager, The Diggers Club, 0422 011 093
Timeline
Education and Events Manager
The Diggers Foundation
06.2022 - 06.2024
Business Development & Marketing Manager
Australian Ecosystems
11.2020 - 06.2022
Director
Melbourne Total Landscaping Pty Ltd
01.2009 - 01.2020
Category Manager
John Danks & Sons
01.2007 - 01.2009
Horticultural & Environmental Consultant
Peter C. Harrison Pty. Ltd./ David Pullar & Associates
01.2002 - 01.2007
Horticultural Technician
Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria
01.2000 - 01.2002
Permaculture Certificate 4 -
THE PERMAFOREST TRUST
Bachelor of Applied Science in Horticulture -
UNIVERSITY OF MELBOURNE
Advanced Certificate in Horticulture -
HOLMESGLEN COLLEGE