Area Operations Manager

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and bonuses

Medical aid and pension fund

Accommodation allowance or housing

Professional development and training

Company vehicle and fuel card

Job summary

Placements24 on behalf of a diversified agricultural enterprise in the Free State seeks an Area Operations Manager to oversee farming and processing units near Bloemfontein. You will drive efficiency, productivity, and quality across multiple sites and lead dedicated teams.

The role requires a strategic, hands-on leader with strong knowledge of agricultural practices, supply chain management, and compliance with safety and environmental standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Operations Management, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in agricultural operations management, supervising multiple sites.
• Understanding of crop production cycles, soil management, pest control, and harvesting in the Bloemfontein area.
• Experience in budgeting and supply chain logistics in agriculture.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel within the Free State province.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of multiple farms and processing facilities within the Bloemfontein area.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance productivity and efficiency.
• Manage farm resources including labor, equipment, and materials to ensure cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure adherence to quality standards and best agricultural practices.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of farm managers and staff.
• Monitor budgets and control expenses to meet targets.
• Implement safety protocols and environmental management systems.
• Oversee supply chain logistics including harvesting, storage, and transportation.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to introduce innovative farming techniques.
• Prepare regular operational reports for senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication skills

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture

Master's degree a plus

Tools

Farm management software

Agricultural technology

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a diversified agricultural enterprise with significant operations across the Free State, is seeking an experienced Area Operations Manager to oversee their farming and processing units near Bloemfontein . This key management role will be responsible for driving efficiency, productivity, and quality across multiple agricultural sites within the designated area. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of modern agricultural practices, supply chain management within the agri-business sector, and proven leadership skills. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the success of a vital industry in Bloemfontein , managing complex operations and leading dedicated teams. The role requires a strategic thinker with a hands‑on approach, committed to sustainable practices and operational excellence in the heart of the Free State . You will be expected to manage resource allocation, implement best practices, and ensure the smooth integration of various operational components to meet production targets and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of multiple farms and processing facilities within the assigned area of Bloemfontein .
• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance productivity, crop yields, and overall efficiency.
• Manage farm resources, including labor, equipment, and materials, to ensure optimal utilization and cost‑effectiveness.
• Ensure adherence to stringent quality control standards and best agricultural practices.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of farm managers and operational staff.
• Monitor operational budgets and control expenses to meet financial targets.
• Implement and maintain safety protocols and environmental management systems on all sites.
• Oversee supply chain logistics, including harvesting, storage, and transportation of agricultural produce.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to introduce innovative farming techniques.
• Prepare regular operational reports for senior management, highlighting performance, challenges, and opportunities in the Free State region.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Operations Management, or a related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in agricultural operations management, with proven experience in managing multiple sites.
• Solid understanding of crop production cycles, soil management, pest control, and harvesting techniques relevant to the Bloemfontein area.
• Experience in managing agricultural budgets and supply chain logistics.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and agricultural technology.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and office environments.
• Knowledge of safety and environmental regulations in the agricultural sector.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.
• Willingness to travel within the Free State province as required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and pension fund.
• Accommodation allowance or company housing option.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in advanced agricultural techniques.
• Be part of a leading agricultural organization contributing to food security in South Africa .
• A dynamic role with significant impact on operational success in Bloemfontein .
• Company vehicle and fuel card.