Commercial Operations Manager

Farm; Mpumalanga; On-site; ZAR 40 000 - 80 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Commercial Operations Manager to lead their fresh produce operations. This role offers the opportunity to optimize supply chain efficiency and ensure compliance with international trade regulations. You will manage export documentation, coordinate shipments, and develop operational plans to reduce product loss. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a solid understanding of food safety standards, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Join a forward-thinking team and make a significant impact in the agricultural sector!

Qualifications

• 5+ years of management experience in fresh produce postharvest management.
• Strong understanding of food safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Ensure adherence to international trade regulations and export control requirements.
• Coordinate shipments and monitor for timely delivery.

Skills

Leadership Skills

Food Safety Standards

Problem-Solving Skills

Communication Skills

Data Management

Negotiation

Market Research

Education

Relevant Tertiary Qualification in Agriculture

Supply Chain Management

Tools

Hyperion

QlikView

HubSpot

Salesforce

Job description

Nelspruit Area, Mpumalanga: Our client is seeking a Commercial Operations Manager to join their team.

Only candidates with the relevant experience will be considered.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Agriculture (Horticulture, Agronomy, Soil Science) or Supply Chain Management.
• At least five years of management experience with strong leadership skills in fresh produce postharvest management or supply chain management.
• Strong understanding of food safety standards and regulatory requirements.
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills, with the ability to manage and motivate a team.
• Strong communication skills for collaboration with internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in computer software and systems for data management and analysis.
• Knowledge of international trade terms and multimodal transportation.
• The role may require extended hours during peak seasons and occasional travel to packhouses or suppliers.
• Experience in exporting subtropical fruit or fresh produce is required.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

• Ensure adherence to international trade regulations, customs laws, and export control requirements.
• Prepare and manage export documentation, including invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and certificates of origin.
• Coordinate shipments with freight forwarders for international destinations.
• Monitor shipments for timely delivery and resolve logistical issues.
• Set and monitor packing and fruit grading standards at packhouses per customer requirements.
• Develop operational plans to optimize efficiency and reduce product loss.
• Implement temperature protocols throughout the logistics chain, from packhouse fridges to main carriage (sea and air freight).
• Manage the Laboratory team for MRL, maturity, and ripening testing, using results to guide harvesting, packing, and supply chain decisions.
• Develop forecasting models based on historical data for harvesting and procurement planning.
• Assess accreditation and regulatory standards, ensuring compliance with food safety, social, and environmental standards.
• Analyze QC reports and customer claims, communicating findings to growers.
• Manage marine insurance claims process.
• Review weekly export returns, claims, and confirm pricing for sales accounts.
• Act as Key Account Manager for selected growers, providing market reports, technical guidance, and conducting visits.
• Understand global market trends (pricing, supply, demand, exchange rates) to inform team and grower decisions.
• Participate in Sales and Operations planning meetings to enhance supply chain efficiency.
• Monitor supply chain performance, including supplier performance and logistics, providing insights for corrective actions.
• Supervise inspections related to supply chain protocols breaches.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Required Experience: Manager

Key Skills: Forecasting, Hyperion, Cost Management, Construction Estimating, QlikView, Bus Driving, Analysis Skills, HubSpot, Salesforce, Market Research, Negotiation, Financial Planning