Agricultural Operations Manager - Fruit Export

Placements24; Waukee (IA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid and retirement fund

Company vehicle

International travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Agricultural Operations Manager to lead end-to-end export fruit production in Paarl, Western Cape. The role emphasizes quality, compliance with GlobalG.A.P., and coordinating with logistics partners for timely deliveries to global markets.

You will manage a large farming team, optimize orchard practices, and control costs while driving profitability. A strong background in fruit production and export logistics is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agribusiness or related field.
• 8+ years in agricultural operations management, export-focused preferred.
• Experience managing large-scale orchards/packing facilities.
• Knowledge of international quality standards and export logistics.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end production for export fruits.
• Ensure compliance with GlobalG.A.P. and other standards.
• Lead and train a large team of farm workers and supervisors.
• Coordinate with logistics partners for port delivery and export.
• Develop budgets and manage costs to improve profitability.
• Maintain accurate production, costs and export documentation.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Export logistics

Quality standards

Farm management software

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture/Horticulture/Agribusiness

Tools

Farm management software

Microsoft Excel

Office Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the South African fruit export industry, is seeking a highly experienced Agricultural Operations Manager for their extensive operations in Paarl, Western Cape . This crucial role involves overseeing the end-to-end production and management of high-value export fruits, ensuring compliance with international quality standards and market demands. The ideal candidate will have a robust background in fruit production, supply chain logistics, and team leadership within an export-oriented agricultural business. You will be responsible for maximizing yields, ensuring fruit quality, managing costs, and coordinating with logistics partners to guarantee timely delivery to global markets. This is an excellent opportunity to lead a dedicated team and contribute to the success of a key agricultural export enterprise in the renowned Western Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing all aspects of fruit production, from orchard management to harvesting, for export markets.


• Ensuring adherence to stringent international quality standards and food safety regulations (e.g., GlobalG.A.P.).


• Optimizing orchard practices for yield, quality, and pest/disease control.


• Overseeing packing house operations to ensure efficient and high-quality fruit preparation for export.


• Managing irrigation, fertilization, and crop protection programs effectively.


• Developing and managing operational budgets, controlling costs, and improving profitability.


• Coordinating with logistics providers for the efficient transportation of produce to ports and international destinations.


• Leading, training, and motivating a large team of farm workers and supervisors.


• Implementing and promoting sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship.


• Maintaining detailed records of production, costs, and export compliance documentation.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Agribusiness, or a related field.


• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in agricultural operations management, with a strong focus on deciduous or citrus fruit production for export.


• Proven experience in managing large-scale fruit orchards and packing facilities.


• In-depth knowledge of international quality standards, phytosanitary requirements, and export logistics.


• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, cost control, and profitability analysis.


• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.


• Proficiency in relevant farm management software and Microsoft Office Suite.


• A valid driver's license and willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons in Paarl.


• Experience with specific export fruit varieties (e.g., apples, pears, table grapes, citrus) is highly desirable.


• Demonstrated ability to manage complex operations and drive operational improvements.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, performance-based incentives, and a comprehensive benefits program including medical aid and a retirement fund. Opportunities for international travel and professional development are available. A company vehicle and communication allowance are provided. This role presents a significant career opportunity within a leading agricultural export company, based in the picturesque Paarl valley. Join a dynamic team committed to delivering premium South African produce to the world, contributing to the economic vitality of the Western Cape.