Farm Manager - Organic Produce Specialist

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 450,000 - 600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development

Paid leave

Equipment access

Job summary

Placements24 in the Western Cape near Cape Town is seeking an experienced Farm Manager to oversee organic farming operations. This hybrid role mixes hands-on field leadership with remote planning and administration to drive sustainable production of high‑quality organic produce.

You will lead a dedicated team, manage budgets, ensure organic certification compliance, monitor soil health and water resources, operate and maintain farm machinery, and collaborate with sales to forecast production and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, or related field.
• 5+ years in farm management, with organic focus.
• Deep knowledge of organic farming principles and soil management.
• Experience budgeting and operational planning in agriculture.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficient with farm management software and office apps.
• Willing to work in a hybrid field/office setting and hold a valid driver's license.
• Familiarity with South African regulations and organic certification processes.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all farm operations from crop planning to harvest.
• Maintain organic farming standards and certification compliance.
• Lead and develop farm staff with training and feedback.
• Develop and manage the farm budget to maximize profitability.
• Monitor soil health, water resources, and crop performance.
• Ensure safe operation and maintenance of farm machinery.
• Collaborate with sales/marketing to forecast production and delivery.
• Maintain detailed records of farming activities and finances.
• Adopt innovative farming techniques to improve efficiency and yield.

Skills

Farm management

Leadership

Budgeting

Organic farming

Soil & water management

Communication

Hybrid work model

Farm software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture/Horticulture

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading agricultural enterprise committed to sustainable and organic farming practices, seeking an experienced Farm Manager to oversee their operations near **Cape Town**. This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, blending hands-on management on-site with remote administrative and strategic planning responsibilities. The Farm Manager will be responsible for the day-to-day execution of farming activities, ensuring the efficient production of high-quality organic produce. This position requires a blend of technical farming knowledge, strong leadership skills, and a passion for environmental stewardship. You will be at the forefront of implementing innovative organic farming techniques, managing resources effectively, and leading a dedicated team to achieve production targets. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing complex agricultural operations and a deep understanding of organic certification standards and best practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of farm operations, including crop planning, planting, cultivation, pest and disease management, and harvesting.
• Implement and maintain organic farming standards and ensure compliance with relevant certification bodies.
• Manage and motivate farm staff, providing training, guidance, and performance feedback.
• Develop and manage the farm budget, controlling operational costs and maximizing profitability.
• Monitor soil health, water resources, and crop performance, implementing sustainable management strategies.
• Ensure the safe and efficient operation of farm machinery and equipment, coordinating maintenance and repairs.
• Collaborate with the sales and marketing team to forecast production needs and ensure timely delivery of produce.
• Maintain detailed records of all farming activities, including crop yields, input usage, and financial transactions.
• Identify and adopt innovative farming techniques to improve efficiency, sustainability, and yield.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in farm management, with a focus on organic agriculture.
• In-depth knowledge of organic farming principles, crop rotation, soil management, and natural pest control methods.
• Experience with budgeting, financial management, and operational planning in an agricultural context.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in using farm management software and standard office applications.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and office environments, embracing a hybrid work model.
• Valid driver's license.
• Familiarity with South African agricultural regulations and organic certification processes.

Benefits

• This role comes with a competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Employees receive comprehensive medical aid coverage and a provident fund contribution.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training in organic farming techniques are provided.
• The hybrid work model offers flexibility, combining on-site engagement with the convenience of remote work.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave are standard.
• Access to modern farm equipment and a supportive team environment are key advantages of this position.