Meet the Team Series: Chris King, Managing Director at The Grower

In the first edition of our Meet the Team series, we sit down with Chris King, Managing Director of The Grower. Known for his dry humour, straight‑talking leadership style, and unwavering passion for horticulture, Chris brings energy, vision to everything he does here at The Grower.

Despite juggling a fast‑moving business, a growing team, and family life, Chris remains committed to building a company rooted in sustainability and long‑term success.

Here’s a glimpse into the person behind the role.

 What does your role involve day‑to‑day?

“Overseeing the general running of the business and trying to stay sane while doing it.”

From guiding the team to steering operations, Chris describes his day as a balance of strategic decisions, problem‑solving, and keeping the business moving forward (preferably without needing to scream or run and hide). Life of a start up!

What inspired you to join this field?

Chris is the first to admit, jokingly, that he “wasn’t very good at anything else,” but the real story is his genuine love for horticulture.

“It’s an industry where you can experience so many different areas, production, logistics, sales, operations. As long as you have an interest for plants and the outdoors, there’s a place for you.”

What projects are you most proud of?

Two projects stand out:

• Joffs Planting – “A year later, it looks fantastic. I’m really proud of what we achieved there.”

• Sam and Chris OG planting team  – “Hard graft, just the two of us, but the end result was brilliant.”

These projects represent hands‑on teamwork, determination and drive needed for a start-up business, and quality results which is embedded in everything we are trying to achieve with The Grower.

What’s one skill everyone in your position should have?

“Patience. A lot of it.”

Although he admits he wasn’t necessarily born with endless reserves, it’s a value he strives to practise daily.

What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

“Working outside, by far. And doing something that has no lasting negative impact. In fact the opposite we’re planting trees, not creating destruction. What a legacy”

For Chris, the ability to create something environmentally positive is a privilege.

How would you summarise the evolution of the business?

“Rapid. Uncontrolled (or at least felt like it). A roller coaster.”

Growth of the business has come fast, but in Chris’s eyes, that’s part of the excitement.

What challenges do you enjoy tackling most?

“When the team comes to me with a problem.”

He thrives on solutions, strategy, and helping the team push through obstacles.

What might colleagues be surprised to learn about you?

Chris used to love Xbox, but rarely gets time now.

Life of a founder.

What’s your favourite way to unwind after work?

“Cooking a nice meal.”

Its simple, but grounding, and as many who know Chris he is led my his stomach.

What are you currently reading, watching, or listening to?

House of Guinness on Netflix.

If you weren’t in this career, what would you be doing?

Probably somewhere in the fresh produce sector.

Not much different then!

How would you describe the team culture?

“Collective responsibility.”

While Chris claims he’s “rubbish at these things,” (being asked questions for our social media and marketing) one thing is clear, teamwork sits at the core of the business.

Favourite thing about working at The Grower?

“My truck.”

Fair enough.

Chris standing in front of his truck holding Plant Health Certificate

What value matters most to you at work?

“Integrity.”

What advice would you give to someone joining the team?

“Just get stuck in. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.”

What are you excited to learn this year?

Cell ‑grown production, and anything else that pushes the business forward.

One goal you're currently working towards?

“To spend more time working on the business, not in the business.”

Something we’ve discovered is a classic challenge for any founder or managing director.

What’s your vision for the future of The Grower?

“Sustainability, in employment, in practice, and socially. And to grow a business that will be around for 40, 50, even 60 years.”

Chris isn’t just building a company for today; he’s building one for future generations.

Fun Facts About Chris

• Nickname at work: Martin Lewis

• Coffee order: Black decaf

• Secret talent: Lego building

• Favourite place to unwind: The kitchen