farm manager

Farm Manager SA; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 350 000 - 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural company in Cape Town is seeking a dedicated Farm Manager to oversee all operations of a commercial farm. The role involves managing farm orchards, cattle, and ensuring efficient irrigation and water management. The ideal candidate will have strong project management and people skills, a passion for farming, and the ability to work autonomously. This position offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on farm productivity and sustainability.

Qualifications

• Experience in farm operations management and cattle management.
• Ability to manage budgets and financials effectively.

Responsibilities

• Manage and grow farm orchards focusing on irrigation and pest control.
• Supervise cattle management and oversee olive oil production.
• Ensure effective health and safety management on the farm.

Skills

Project Management

People Skills

Attention to Detail

Proactivity

Passion for Farming

Job description

Job Description

Farm Manager Job Summary

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing a commercial farm, overseeing all aspects of the operation, and ensuring its smooth day-to-day running.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Farm Operations Management: Manage and grow the farm orchards, focusing on irrigation, fertigation, herbicides, and pesticides to increase tree health and yield.
2. Cattle Management: Supervise the Nguni stud and related activities, including pastures for high-intensity grazing, cattle health, and commerce.
3. Farm Security: Maintain perimeter fences, road infrastructure, and oversee security company duties and liaison.
4. Irrigation and Water Management: Manage farm irrigation systems, water structures, pipes, pumps, and filters.
5. Digital Farm Management: Keep detailed digital records, schedule irrigation, and monitor trends using technology and reporting tools.
6. Equipment Maintenance: Monitor and maintain equipment and infrastructure.
7. Financial Management: Operate within a defined budget and targets, managing costs and financials effectively.
8. Partnerships and Relationships: Develop and manage relationships with key farm partners, including irrigation, electrical, crop scientists, fertilization, chemical suppliers, and plumbers.
9. Labour Management: Manage live-in farm workers and plan, contract, and manage contract labour teams for seasonal work.
10. Olive Oil Production: Oversee olive oil production, pressing, storage, sales, and related activities.
11. Vehicle Operations: Use a provided vehicle for on-farm work and hold valid driving permits for cars, code 10 trucks, and tractors.
12. Project Management and People Skills: Demonstrate excellent project management and people skills, working across diverse cultures and expertise.
13. Health and Safety: Ensure effective management of health and safety in the farming environment.
14. Autonomy and Proactivity: Work independently and proactively, setting daily/weekly/monthly work schedules and managing outcomes.
15. Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilize strong attention to detail and record-keeping skills to make informed decisions.
16. Passion for Farming: Be passionate about farming, willing to learn, and able to adapt to new challenges.