Senior Farm Operations Manager

Placements24; Roanoke (VA); On-site; USD 73,000 - 103,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Housing allowance

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Our client, a large-scale agricultural producer, is seeking a Senior Farm Operations Manager to oversee daily farm operations in East London, Eastern Cape. This on-site leadership role requires strong background in crop production, pest management, and harvesting, with a focus on efficiency, productivity, and profitability.

You will lead a diverse team of farm workers, supervisors, and agronomists, develop operational plans, monitor resources, and ensure safety, biosecurity, and environmental

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or related field.
• Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum 10 years in farm management and operations, with 5+ years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record managing large-scale agricultural operations.
• Strong knowledge of crop production, pest/disease management, and soil science.
• Experience with farm machinery maintenance and budgeting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day farming operations in line with strategic objectives.
• Lead a team of farm workers, supervisors, and agronomists.
• Develop and implement planting, cultivation, irrigation, and harvesting plans.
• Ensure efficient use of labor, machinery, water, and inputs.
• Monitor crop health and yields, taking corrective actions as needed.
• Maintain farm safety, biosecurity, and environmental compliance.
• Manage equipment and infrastructure maintenance and repairs.
• Contribute to budgeting and cost control.
• Promote best agricultural practices to optimize yield and quality.
• Collaborate with supply chain and management for field-to-market flow.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a large-scale agricultural producer in **East London, Eastern Cape**, is seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Senior Farm Operations Manager. This critical on-site role involves overseeing all aspects of daily farm operations, ensuring maximum efficiency, productivity, and profitability. You will lead a dedicated team, manage resources effectively, and implement best practices across diverse farming activities, including crop cultivation, pest management, and harvesting. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership skills, a deep understanding of modern agricultural techniques, and a commitment to operational excellence within the **East London** region. This position is integral to the success of our client's extensive farming endeavors.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage day-to-day farming operations, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.
• Lead, motivate, and manage a team of farm workers, supervisors, and agronomists.
• Develop and implement operational plans for planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting.
• Ensure efficient utilization of resources, including labor, machinery, water, and inputs.
• Monitor crop health, growth, and yield, implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Maintain high standards of farm safety, biosecurity, and environmental compliance.
• Manage farm equipment and infrastructure, ensuring proper maintenance and repair.
• Control operational costs and contribute to budgeting and financial planning.
• Implement and promote best agricultural practices to optimize yield and quality.
• Collaborate with supply chain and management teams to ensure smooth product flow from field to market.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in farm management and operations, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale agricultural operations.
• In-depth knowledge of crop production cycles, pest and disease management, and soil science.
• Strong understanding of farm machinery, equipment, and maintenance.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis for operational decision-making.
• Strong financial acumen and experience with budgeting and cost control.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and make sound decisions in a dynamic environment.
• Must be willing to work full-time on-site in **East London, Eastern Cape**, and surrounding areas.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits program including medical aid, housing allowance, and retirement fund contributions. This on-site role provides the opportunity to directly impact and lead significant agricultural operations in the **Eastern Cape**. Access to modern farm equipment and technologies will be provided. Career advancement opportunities within a leading agricultural organization are available. Live and work in the scenic coastal city of **East London**, enjoying the lifestyle and community spirit of the region.