Farm Operations Leader: Livestock, Orchards & Crops

Farm Manager SA; Plettenberg Bay; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Farm Manager SA in Plettenberg Bay seeks an experienced farm manager to lead a 750-hectare operation, overseeing cattle, macadamia orchards and crops. You will direct budgets, staff, contractors and farm infrastructure, ensuring productivity, welfare and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate has strong livestock and crop knowledge, budgeting discipline and a long-term farming mindset to grow a developing business. Leadership and stakeholder engagement are essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing a substantial agricultural operation or a significant section of one.
• Strong practical knowledge of livestock and crop production; cattle experience required.
• Macadamia/orchard experience advantageous; horse/equestrian experience useful.
• Good financial discipline with budgets, costs and management information.

Responsibilities

• Take overall responsibility for the day-to-day operation, productivity and presentation of the 750-hectare farm.
• Manage cattle operations, including grazing, breeding, animal health, handling, records and sales.
• Oversee the farm's horse and equestrian requirements, including grazing, care and coordination with staff.
• Manage and develop macadamia orchards, including maintenance, inputs, irrigation, harvesting and contractor coordination.
• Plan and manage teff and other crop production, including planting, inputs, harvesting, yields and rotation.
• Prepare annual operating and capital budgets with the Board and accounting team; monitor performance and explain variances.
• Maintain disciplined control over purchasing, fuel, labour, contractors, machinery and other farm costs; manage staff and contractors.
• Maintain farm infrastructure including roads, fencing, water systems, buildings, machinery and equipment.
• Provide regular operational and financial reporting to the company.

Skills

Agriculture management

Livestock knowledge

Cattle experience

Equestrian knowledge

Budgeting & cost control

Leadership & supervision

Board liaison

Strategic planning

Education

Agricultural qualification

Job description

Farm Manager SA in Plettenberg Bay seeks an experienced farm manager to lead a 750-hectare operation, overseeing cattle, macadamia orchards and crops. You will direct budgets, staff, contractors and farm infrastructure, ensuring productivity, welfare and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate has strong livestock and crop knowledge, budgeting discipline and a long-term farming mindset to grow a developing business. Leadership and stakeholder engagement are essential.