Agricultural Operations Manager - Mixed Farming

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 850,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Company vehicle

Housing allowance

Career progression

Paid leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng, seeks a seasoned Agricultural Operations Manager to oversee mixed farming activities, including crop and livestock operations. You will drive strategic planning, budgeting and team leadership in a hands-on role on-site near Vereeniging.

The ideal candidate has a proven track record in large-scale farm management, strong agronomy and animal husbandry knowledge, plus expertise in farm finance and logistics.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Management, Agronomy or related field.
• Master’s degree is advantageous.
• Minimum 7 years in blended farm management with crops and livestock.
• Proven financial management, budgeting and cost control experience.
• Strong leadership and ability to develop staff.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans for mixed farming activities.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and optimize resource allocation.
• Oversee daily farm operations across crops and livestock.
• Lead, train, and motivate a diverse farm team.
• Enforce health, safety and biosecurity protocols.
• Monitor crop health, soil conditions and livestock welfare.
• Manage equipment maintenance and procurement.
• Oversee inputs procurement and produce/livestock sales.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations and environmental standards.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Strategic planning

Agronomy

Animal husbandry

Decision making

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related field

Master's degree (advantageous)

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant agricultural entity, is seeking a seasoned Agricultural Operations Manager to oversee their diverse mixed-farming operations near Vereeniging, Gauteng . This role is pivotal in ensuring the efficient and profitable management of a wide range of agricultural activities, including crop production, livestock management, and potentially aquaculture. The successful candidate will be responsible for strategic planning, resource allocation, team leadership, and implementing best practices across all facets of the farm. A comprehensive understanding of agronomy, animal husbandry, farm finance, and operational logistics is essential. You will play a key role in driving productivity, sustainability, and innovation within the operations. This is a hands-on leadership position that requires a proactive approach, strong decision-making capabilities, and the ability to manage complex, multi-faceted operations in the Vereeniging region. We are looking for an individual with a proven track record in large-scale farm management and a commitment to operational excellence and environmental responsibility. The company prides itself on its modern approach to agriculture and fostering a productive, safe work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans for mixed farming activities, including crop cycles and livestock schedules.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and optimize resource allocation for maximum profitability.
• Oversee daily farm operations, ensuring efficient execution of tasks related to crop planting, cultivation, harvesting, and livestock care.
• Lead, train, and motivate a diverse team of farm workers, supervisors, and specialists.
• Implement and enforce strict health, safety, and biosecurity protocols across the farm.
• Monitor crop health, soil conditions, and livestock welfare, implementing necessary interventions.
• Manage equipment maintenance and procurement, ensuring operational readiness.
• Oversee supply chain and logistics, including procurement of inputs and sale of produce/livestock.
• Ensure compliance with all agricultural regulations and environmental standards in Gauteng .

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Management, Agronomy, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in comprehensive farm management, with a strong emphasis on mixed farming systems.
• Proven experience in managing both crop production and livestock operations.
• Demonstrated ability in financial management, budgeting, and cost control within an agricultural context.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Excellent knowledge of agronomic practices, animal husbandry, and veterinary principles.
• Proficiency in farm management software and relevant technologies.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be willing to work extensively on-site near Vereeniging .

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with experience and responsibilities.
• Performance-based bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance.
• Accommodation on-site or a generous housing allowance.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization.
• Generous annual leave and sick leave benefits.