Farm Business & Financial Analyst

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary (R)

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Generous paid time off

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a sharp Farm Business & Financial Analyst to join our client’s diversified agricultural group in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. The role focuses on financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning to support farm operations and profitability.

You will collaborate with farm managers and senior leadership to drive cost efficiencies and informed investment decisions. The ideal candidate has a finance, accounting, or business background with 3–5 years of relevant

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business administration or related field.
• 3–5 years in financial analysis, accounting or business planning.
• Experience in agriculture is highly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage annual budgets and long-term financial forecasts for farm operations.
• Analyze farm operating expenses to identify cost reductions and efficiency gains.
• Prepare financial reports: P&L, cash flow, and balance sheets.
• Conduct variance analyses between budget and actual performance.
• Evaluate financial viability of projects, investments, and strategic initiatives.
• Monitor agricultural market trends impacting profitability.
• Develop financial models for crop selection and resource allocation.
• Provide insights to farm managers and senior management.
• Ensure compliance with accounting principles and regulations.
• Assist in preparing financial presentations for stakeholders and lenders.

Skills

Financial modelling

Budgeting

Forecasting

Excel

ERP systems

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related quantitative field

Tools

Excel

ERP systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a diversified agricultural group, is seeking a sharp and analytical Farm Business & Financial Analyst to join their team in **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga**. This vital role involves providing in-depth financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic business planning to support farm operations and optimize profitability. You will work closely with farm managers, agronomists, and senior leadership to assess financial performance, identify cost-saving opportunities, and evaluate new investment opportunities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in finance, accounting, or business administration, with specific experience or a keen interest in the agricultural sector. A deep understanding of farm economics, market trends, and operational costs is highly desirable. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the financial health and strategic direction of a leading agricultural business in the **Nelspruit** region. You will play a key part in ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of the company's agricultural ventures. The role requires excellent analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to present financial information clearly and concisely. We are looking for a results-oriented individual who can drive financial performance improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage annual budgets and long-term financial forecasts for farm operations.
• Analyze farm operating expenses, identifying areas for cost reduction and efficiency improvements.
• Prepare regular financial reports, including profit and loss statements, cash flow analyses, and balance sheets.
• Conduct variance analysis and investigate discrepancies between budget and actual performance.
• Evaluate the financial viability of new projects, investments, and strategic initiatives.
• Monitor agricultural market trends and their potential impact on farm profitability.
• Develop financial models to support decision-making regarding crop selection, resource allocation, and operational changes.
• Provide financial insights and recommendations to farm managers and senior management.
• Ensure compliance with accounting principles and financial regulations.
• Assist in the preparation of financial presentations for stakeholders and lenders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in financial analysis, accounting, or business planning.
• Experience within the agricultural sector is highly preferred.
• Strong understanding of financial modeling, budgeting, and forecasting techniques.
• Proficiency in accounting software and financial analysis tools (e.g., Excel, ERP systems).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Effective communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex financial data.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Knowledge of South African agricultural economics and market dynamics is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of R .
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with company contribution.
• Generous paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in financial management.
• Work in a dynamic and growing agricultural company.
• Potential for career advancement.
• Relocation assistance may be provided.