Farm Manager (Large-Scale Operations)

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement annuity

Life insurance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Manager to oversee a large-scale farming operation near Soweto, Gauteng. You will direct crop production, oversee livestock (where applicable), manage budgets, supervise staff, and ensure sustainable, profitable farming practices.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and 7+ years in farm management, with strong leadership, financial acumen, and proficiency in modern farming technologies. A valid driver’s license is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a related field.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive farm management experience in large-scale operations.
• Proven leadership with experience managing a substantial workforce.
• In-depth knowledge of modern agricultural techniques and crop science.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting and reporting.
• Valid driver’s license is essential for coordinating operations around Soweto.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage daily farming operations, including planning, planting, cultivation, pest/disease control, and harvesting.
• Oversee livestock operations where applicable, including health and welfare.
• Develop strategies to meet production targets and optimize profitability.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and ensure efficient resource use.
• Lead, train, and supervise farm workers and supervisors.
• Maintain farm records and ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Source inputs and collaborate with agronomists and veterinarians.
• Monitor market trends and adapt strategies to maximize returns.

Skills

Leadership

Financial management

Agriculture knowledge

Farm machinery

Problem solving

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture/related field

Tools

Farm management software

Record-keeping systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural organization with extensive operations in Gauteng , is seeking an experienced and highly capable Farm Manager to oversee a large-scale farming enterprise in the vicinity of Soweto . This critical role involves the comprehensive management of all farming activities, including crop production, livestock management (if applicable), resource allocation, staff supervision, and financial oversight. The ideal candidate will possess a strong leadership background, a deep understanding of modern agricultural practices, and a proven ability to maximize productivity and profitability while upholding sustainable farming principles. This is a significant opportunity to lead major agricultural operations in a key economic region.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all daily farming operations, including crop planning, planting, cultivation, pest/disease control, and harvesting.


• Oversee livestock operations, including breeding, feeding, health management, and welfare (if applicable).


• Develop and implement operational strategies to achieve production targets and optimize farm profitability.


• Manage farm budgets, control expenditures, and ensure efficient resource utilization (labor, equipment, inputs).


• Lead, train, and supervise a diverse team of farm workers, foremen, and supervisors, fostering a positive and productive work environment.


• Ensure the effective operation and maintenance of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.


• Implement and enforce health, safety, and environmental regulations on the farm.


• Maintain accurate farm records, including production data, financial transactions, and inventory.


• Source and manage relationships with suppliers of seeds, fertilizers, chemicals, and other essential inputs.


• Collaborate with agronomists, veterinarians, and other technical experts to ensure best practices are followed.


• Monitor market trends and adapt farming strategies to maximize returns.


• Drive continuous improvement initiatives across all aspects of farm operations.


• Ensure adherence to quality standards for all produce or livestock.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a related field.


• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in farm management, with a significant portion managing large-scale commercial operations.


• Demonstrated leadership skills with proven experience managing a substantial workforce.


• In-depth knowledge of modern agricultural techniques, crop science, and potentially livestock management relevant to the region.


• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting.


• Excellent understanding of farm machinery, equipment, and technology.


• Proficiency in farm management software and record-keeping systems.


• Knowledge of relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations in agriculture.


• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and organizational abilities.


• A valid driver's license is essential for managing operations around Soweto and surrounding farms.


• Adaptability to working in diverse environmental conditions and potentially demanding schedules.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package and a performance-related bonus structure.


• Comprehensive benefits include medical aid, a retirement annuity, and life insurance.


• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training in agricultural management are provided.


• This role offers the chance to lead significant agricultural operations within the vibrant Gauteng province, contributing to food security and economic growth in South Africa .