Agricultural Operations Manager

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing allowance

Health insurance

Retirement fund contributions

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Operations Manager to oversee extensive estates near Cape Town. You will ensure efficient, profitable cultivation across crops, manage resources and lead a large farm workforce.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related field, with 8+ years of progressive experience in agricultural management and a track record of managing complex budgets. A Master's degree is advantageous.

Qualifications

• Requires Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Business Management, or related field.
• Master's degree is advantageous for progression and leadership roles.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all daily farm operations (planting, cultivation, harvesting, livestock where applicable).
• Develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance yields and quality.
• Oversee procurement and management of inputs, machinery and equipment.
• Lead, train and motivate a diverse workforce with safety and procedures in mind.
• Monitor crop health, soil conditions and environmental factors; take corrective actions as needed.
• Manage budgets, financial performance and operational reporting.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Team management

Crop science

Irrigation systems

GPS technology

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related field

Master's degree is a plus

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a results-oriented Agricultural Operations Manager to oversee and optimize farming operations for their extensive estates located near Cape Town . This role is critical in ensuring the efficient and profitable cultivation of various crops, managing resources effectively, and leading a large team of farm workers. You will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the farm, implementing strategic plans, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and quality standards. This is an exciting opportunity to shape agricultural practices in the vibrant Western Cape region and drive operational excellence within a leading agricultural enterprise.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of daily farm operations, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and livestock management where applicable.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance crop yields and quality.
• Oversee the procurement and management of agricultural inputs, machinery, and equipment.
• Lead, train, and motivate a diverse workforce, ensuring adherence to safety protocols and operational procedures.
• Monitor crop health, soil conditions, and environmental factors, implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Manage budgets, financial performance, and operational reporting for the farm's activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Business Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• At least 8 years of progressive experience in agricultural management, with significant responsibility for farm operations.
• Proven experience in managing large teams and complex operational budgets.
• Strong knowledge of modern farming techniques, crop science, and irrigation systems relevant to the Cape Town region.
• Familiarity with agricultural technology, including GPS systems and farm management software.
• Excellent leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package with performance-based incentives.
• Housing allowance or on-site accommodation options.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for career advancement and leadership development within the agricultural sector.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment in the beautiful Western Cape .