Chief Executive Officer

Subtropico Limited; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 750 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading livestock auctioneer is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to lead their commercial functions in Pretoria. This role involves developing and implementing commercial strategies to enhance market growth and customer engagement. The ideal candidate will have 10–15 years of experience in senior management within a relevant field, with strong leadership and relationship management skills. Applications are welcome via email with a CV and cover letter before the closing date of February 6, 2026.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10–15 years’ senior management experience in a relevant environment.
• Experience in auction-based trading or agri-processing is a strong advantage.
• Demonstrated exposure to export market development and cross-border expansion.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategies to expand the company's market presence.
• Lead product innovation and pricing models.
• Oversee operational alignment with commercial goals.

Skills

Senior management experience

Stakeholder relationship management

Commercial strategy development

Product innovation

Governance compliance

Job description

Overview

Vleissentraal is a leading livestock auctioneer in South Africa, committed to connecting farmers and buyers through integrity, efficiency, and exceptional service. We pride ourselves on supporting the agricultural community through trusted market solutions.

Position Overview

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Vleissentraal is to lead the company’s commercial functions, ensuring revenue growth, customer value, and market development. The CEO is responsible for commercial strategy, client relationship management, and expansion initiatives that enhance Vleissentraal’s competitive position. This position is focused exclusively on Vleissentraal.

Primary Purpose

To develop, implement, and drive Vleissentraal’s commercial strategy in alignment with the company’s objectives. The CEO ensures growth in revenue, deepens customer engagement, and secures market expansion opportunities through innovation, transformation, and strategic partnerships.

Key Responsibilities

1. Commercial Strategy and Growth: Develop and execute strategies to expand Vleissentraal’s market presence, including the growth of auction volumes, launch of integrated auction products, and development of new revenue streams.
2. Product and Market Development: Lead product innovation, pricing models, and service offerings to ensure Vleissentraal remains competitive and relevant. Oversee cross-border expansion into other markets.
3. Operational and Financial Alignment: Work with the Managing Directors and senior management teams to ensure commercial objectives are integrated into operational plans. Monitor performance metrics, sales targets, and financial outcomes linked to commercial activities.
4. Governance and Reporting: Report to the Managing Director on commercial performance, market opportunities, and risks. Ensure compliance with relevant governance standards and company policies.
5. Transformation and Strategic Initiatives: Drive transformation initiatives within the commercial function, ensuring inclusivity and alignment with goals.
6. Stakeholder Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with agents, clients, farmers, industry bodies, and strategic partners to secure business continuity and growth.
7. Leadership and Succession Enablement: Support leadership continuity within the commercial function by mentoring internal teams, embedding sustainable practices, and ensuring structured handover where applicable.
8. Experience: See separate qualifications.

Experience and Qualifications

• Minimum of 10–15 years’ senior management experience in a commercial, trading, agricultural, agri-processing, commodities, or related environment.
• Demonstrated experience in a Chief Commercial Officer, Commercial Director, Executive, or equivalent senior leadership role, with accountability for revenue growth, pricing strategy, and market expansion.
• Proven track record in developing and executing commercial strategies, including product innovation, route-to-market design, and client or agent-based distribution models.
• Experience in auction-based, commission-driven, or platform-enabled trading environments will be a strong advantage.
• Demonstrated exposure to export market development and cross-border expansion, particularly within Southern Africa.
• Strong experience in stakeholder relationship management, including farmers, agents, customers, industry bodies, and strategic partners.
• Experience leading or supporting transformation initiatives, including digital enablement, new product launches, and commercial restructuring.
• Proven ability to operate in a regulated or governance-driven environment, with a sound understanding of commercial risk, compliance, and accountability frameworks.

To Apply

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the role to [e-mail]. We look forward to hearing from you!

Applications close on 06 February 2026.

If you have not heard from us two weeks after the application closing date, please assume that your application has not been successful.