Blueberry Estate Manager - Mpumalanga

Frank Consult; Barberton; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

Frank Consult is seeking an Estate Manager for a leading agricultural enterprise specializing in sustainable blueberry production in Barberton, Mpumalanga. The role involves managing tunnel farming production, overseeing team operations, and ensuring quality and safety standards are met.

The ideal candidate should have 5-10 years of experience in farm production, particularly in tunnel farming or grape farming, along with strong leadership and financial management skills.

This is a full-time on-site position requiring a regular presence to oversee operations and ensure team effectiveness.

Qualifications

• 5–10 years’ experience in farm production, particularly in tunnel farming or grape farming.
• Exceptional people management skills with the ability to lead teams.

Responsibilities

• Manage tunnel farming blueberry production to meet plans and quality standards.
• Develop and monitor budgets; coordinate resources and suppliers.
• Lead and train the farm team while ensuring HR compliance.
• Ensure adherence to compliance standards and mitigate risks.
• Oversee new plantings, infrastructure projects, and manage equipment.

Skills

Horticultural knowledge

Precision farming technologies

People management

Financial management

Communication skills

Education

Relevant tertiary degree/diploma in agriculture or horticulture

Tools

MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

Farm management systems

Job description

Overview

Our client is a leading agricultural enterprise specialising in sustainable, high-quality blueberry production through tunnel farming. They are committed to innovative farming practices and operational excellence, seeking an Estate Manager to drive their blueberry farm’s success.

Responsibilities

• Production & Quality Management: Manage tunnel farming blueberry production to meet plans and quality standards. Implement precision farming techniques to optimise yields.
• Business & Financial Oversight: Develop and monitor budgets, ensuring cost-effective operations. Coordinate resources and suppliers to align with operational plans.
• People Management: Lead, motivate, and train the farm team, ensuring adherence to HR policies and performance standards. Foster a culture of commitment and accountability.
• Risk & Compliance: Ensure compliance with Global G.A.P., health and safety, and company policies. Mitigate risks through proactive monitoring.
• Project & Asset Management: Oversee new plantings and infrastructure projects, ensuring timely delivery within budget. Manage equipment and supplies effectively.

Required Skills & Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Relevant tertiary degree/diploma in agriculture or horticulture (advantageous).
• 5–10 years’ experience in farm production, with expertise in any tunnel farming (e.g., vegetables) or grape farming.

Technical Skills

• Strong horticultural knowledge and experience with precision farming technologies for tunnel farming.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and farm management systems.
• Understanding of financial management and HR legislation (e.g., health and safety).

Leadership & Interpersonal Skills

• Exceptional people management, with proven ability to lead and motivate teams.
• Strong communication, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Self-motivated, detail-oriented, and adaptable to innovative practices.

Working Conditions

• Full-time role based on the farm, with occasional extended hours to meet production deadlines.
• Requires regular on-site presence to oversee operations and team activities.