Farm Manager - Large Scale Mechanized Operations

Placements24; Pretoria; Sur place; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 800 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life assurance

Relocation support

Company vehicle

Accommodation options

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a highly capable Farm Manager for a major agricultural operation near Pretoria, Gauteng. You will lead a large, mechanized farming site, plan and execute crop cycles, and ensure efficient use of inputs, safety, and regulatory compliance.

You will manage a diverse team, oversee machinery and budget performance, and drive continuous improvement to maximise yield and profitability across key crops such as maize, soybeans, and wheat.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of proven experience in large-scale mechanized farming.
• Strong financial acumen including budgeting and cost control.
• Leadership of a diverse farm workforce and safety compliance.

Responsabilités

• Develop and implement annual farm operating plans including crop rotation, planting and harvesting schedules.
• Oversee day-to-day mechanized farming operations and equipment maintenance.
• Lead farm workers, supervisors, and operators with emphasis on productivity and safety.
• Optimize inputs (seeds, fertilisers, water, pesticides) to maximise yield and minimise waste.
• Monitor crop development and address pests, diseases and environmental stress.
• Maintain accurate production, input, labour and expense records.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Manage farm budget and contribute to profitability targets.
• Oversee storage and initial handling of harvested crops and drive continuous improvement.

Formation

Degree or Diploma in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a major agricultural enterprise renowned for its expansive mechanized farming operations, is seeking a highly competent and results-driven Farm Manager to lead their key production site near Pretoria, Gauteng . This critical role involves the strategic planning, execution, and oversight of all farming activities across a significant landholding, with a strong emphasis on efficiency, productivity, and the implementation of best agricultural practices. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in managing large-scale crop production, utilizing advanced mechanization, and optimizing resource allocation. You will be responsible for a substantial team, ensuring the safe and effective operation of farm machinery and the successful cultivation of primary crops. This is a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact on agricultural output in the strategically important region of Pretoria, Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement annual farm operating plans, including crop rotation, planting, and harvesting schedules. Oversee the day-to-day management of mechanized farming operations, including the operation and maintenance of tractors, harvesters, and other farm machinery. Manage a diverse team of farm workers, supervisors, and operators, ensuring productivity, safety, and compliance with labor laws. Control and optimize the use of inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, water, and pesticides to maximize yield and minimize waste. Monitor crop development, identify potential issues (pests, diseases, environmental stress), and implement timely corrective actions. Maintain accurate records of all farm activities, including production data, input usage, labor, and financial expenditures. Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies. Manage the farm budget effectively, controlling costs and contributing to profitability targets. Oversee storage and initial handling of harvested crops. Foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence within the farm team.

Requirements

Degree or Diploma in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a related discipline. A minimum of 8 years of proven experience in managing large-scale mechanized farming operations. In-depth knowledge of crop production cycles for major field crops (e.g., maize, soybeans, wheat). Strong proficiency in operating and maintaining modern agricultural machinery. Demonstrated ability in team leadership, personnel management, and conflict resolution. Excellent financial acumen, including budgeting, cost control, and performance analysis. Solid understanding of soil science, crop nutrition, and integrated pest management. Ability to analyze data and make informed decisions to improve operational efficiency. Valid driver's license and willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons. Residing in or willing to relocate to the vicinity of Pretoria, Gauteng .

Benefits

Our client provides a highly attractive salary package, reflecting the senior nature of this role, complemented by performance-based bonuses. The benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a robust retirement fund, and life assurance. Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in farm management technologies are readily available. This role is based in the heartland of South African agriculture, offering a significant opportunity to lead and innovate. You will be part of a company that values its employees and promotes a strong sense of community and shared purpose. We also offer a generous annual leave entitlement and support for relocation if necessary. A company vehicle and accommodation options may be considered.