Forestry Manager Khulisa - Zululand

Sappi; Winterton; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Sappi requires a Forestry Manager to oversee sustainable wood fibre supply, enhance local enterprise, and ensure compliance with forestry standards. The role involves stakeholder management, risk assessment, and operational oversight, offering the opportunity to work in a global environment with competitive benefits.

Benefits

Opportunity to work in a global organization with ongoing growth.

Learning and development programs.

Travel opportunities (role-dependent).

Competitive leave benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years' experience in timber procurement or forestry management.
• National Diploma in Forestry or related field.

Responsibilities

• Manage sustainable wood fibre supply and stakeholder relationships.
• Conduct audits, monitor compliance, and oversee operational efficiency.
• Prepare budgets and manage operational activities.

Skills

Timber procurement

Forestry management

Risk management

Education

National Diploma in Forestry

Logistics/Transport Management qualification

Job description

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Sappi Forests requires a Forestry Manager - Khulisa to manage sustainable wood fibre supply into various Sappi markets; balancing supply according to demand; growing local enterprise and supply capacity to support growth; developing and growing the local economy through stakeholder cooperation and building synergies with relevant departments. This position oversees central Zululand.

This role reports to the General Manager: Khulisa.

Main responsibilities include:

• Assess & review re-establishment programs, monitor nursery orders, ensure operations align with budget, and meet TUP targets for sustainable supply and stakeholder profits.
• Conduct monthly infield audits to maintain silvicultural standards, assess stocks, weed maintenance, and fire preparedness, minimizing risks through timely intervention.
• Inform suppliers of forecasted FDI, ensure resources are available for fire response to minimize costs and losses.
• Foster relationships with suppliers, neighbors, and the local business community via farmer associations and Fire Protection Associations to enhance collaboration and disaster response.
• Encourage supplier investment in equipment through cooperatives to improve access and profitability.
• Conduct service audits to ensure quality and value for money, and ensure project resources meet targets by recruiting and developing skills.
• Maintain compliance with chain of custody principles through audits, monitor timber volumes versus contractual volumes to combat illegal activities.
• Monitor loan recovery, infield stocks, and sales to reduce losses and ensure delivery targets are met.
• Perform safety and quality inspections to proactively mitigate risks, and coordinate with logistics to optimize delivery and customer satisfaction.
• Oversee harvesting performance, scheduling, and stakeholder relations to uphold company image and ensure operational efficiency.
• Manage relationships with government and local authorities, support stakeholder engagement, and maintain supplier relations adhering to standards and resolving concerns promptly.
• Negotiate rates, develop supplier programs, and transfer technical knowledge to support sustainable supply and growth.
• Identify new growing areas, recruit growers, and develop contracts to increase supply.
• Ensure legislative compliance, conduct audits, and promote loyalty by sharing reports and industry updates.
• Manage company assets, ensure safety and environmental compliance, and educate suppliers on standards and policies.
• Work with safety teams to manage risks, mentor subordinates, and develop future leaders through career planning.
• Prepare budgets, monitor operational activities, manage costs, and ensure projects' financial viability.
• Facilitate water license applications, coordinate sales planning, and report on district performance monthly.

Qualifications and experience:

• National Diploma in Forestry or related field.
• Logistics/Transport Management qualification is advantageous.
• Minimum of 8 years' experience in timber procurement or forestry management.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to work in a global organization with ongoing growth.
• Learning and development programs.
• Travel opportunities (role-dependent).
• Competitive leave benefits.

Sappi is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. We encourage applications regardless of race, gender, age, or disability. We support vaccination efforts.

About Sappi

Sappi is a leading global provider of woodfibre-based materials, committed to sustainability and circular economy principles, focusing on innovative, responsible processes and products.