A journey through the farm

Evans’ story at Nini is one of growth and dedication. He didn’t start in this job; he began his career in our packhouse, learning the literal “roots” of the business. “I started by doing lots of different tasks in the packhouse,” Evans recalls. “That experience was vital. It taught me exactly how our roses are handled before they ever reach a customer.” His hard work didn’t go unnoticed. He was soon promoted to Data Clerk, and eventually to his current vital role in Supply Chain.

The daily puzzle of demand

Today, Evans acts as the essential bridge between our farm in Kenya and our colleagues in the Netherlands. “A typical day involves a lot of coordination,” Evans explains. “The Dutch team collects the orders, and together we look at the possibilities. My goal is a smooth and efficient flow: ensuring the right product, in the right amount, is ready at exactly the right time.”

From coordinating with the packhouse to managing logistics at the airport and checking every invoice and packing list, Evans oversees the entire journey. This requires a constant feedback loop with the Dutch team. They discuss everything from market demands and forecasting to the smallest details like head sizes, cut stages, and even the specific type of boxes or sleeves needed for a shipment.

Innovation in transport: air vs sea

One of the most interesting parts of Evans’ work is the balance between air and sea freight. While air freight offers flexibility and speed, sea freight is a long-term game that requires extreme precision. “With sea freight, we have to plan much further ahead,” says Evans. “Not all varieties are suitable for the longer journey. We are now planting varieties specifically chosen for their strength at sea, though it takes about a year for the plants to reach that level. Sea freight requires very strict control over temperature and humidity.”

Navigating challenges

Working with a fresh product means Evans is always racing against the clock. Whether it is a sudden change in an order or an unexpected hurdle like a truck breaking down on the way to the airport, quick thinking is required. “Sometimes external factors change everything, like the route of our sea freight containers shifting due to global conflicts,” he says. “You have to be able to adapt quickly while maintaining the high quality our customers expect.”

Growth through Fairtrade

Evans’ development isn’t just limited to his career path; it’s also academic. In 2024, he received his diploma in Business Management after a three-year study, 70% of which was funded by the Fairtrade Premium. “That study played a significant role in my personal development,” Evans shares. “It gave me the leadership and decision-making skills I use every day. It even allowed me to help renew our company standards by combining my studies with my knowledge of different departments.”

“That study funded by Fairtrade Premium, played a significant rol in my personal development.”

The power of teamwork

What Evans enjoys most is being a link in a successful international chain. For him, the satisfaction comes from seeing a well-planned operation result in a happy customer. When asked what advice he would give to someone starting out in the industry, his answer is simple and reflects his own path: “You must be willing to start from any level at a company. Learning the foundation is what makes you a leader later on.”