Farm Operations Manager - Extensive Livestock Ranches

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation provided on or near the

Comprehensive medical aid coverage

Paid annual leave

Retirement fund benefits

Company vehicles and equipment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Farm Operations Manager to oversee extensive livestock ranching in Mahikeng, North West. This on-site role requires leading herd health, pasture optimization, and efficient ranch logistics.

You will manage a rural workforce, implement grazing plans, maintain infrastructure, and ensure compliance with welfare and biosecurity standards while driving productivity and sustainability across large lands.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of livestock management experience in extensive ranching.
• Experience managing large herds of cattle, sheep, or other livestock.
• Strong understanding of pasture management, rangeland ecology, and rotational grazing.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a rural workforce.
• Knowledge of animal health, disease prevention, and biosecurity practices.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in remote environments with limited supervision.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of livestock operations including breeding, feeding, health monitoring, and herd movement.
• Develop grazing management plans to optimize pasture use.
• Oversee maintenance of fences, water points, housing, and vehicles.
• Lead farm workers, including recruitment, training, supervision, and performance reviews.
• Ensure compliance with animal welfare, biosecurity, and environmental regulations.
• Manage inventory of feed, veterinary supplies, and other inputs.
• Monitor budgets and control costs for ranch operations.
• Implement strategies to reduce livestock losses from predation or disease.
• Maintain accurate records of livestock numbers, health status, production data, and expenses.
• Promote a safe, productive working environment for staff.

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly capable and experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee extensive livestock ranching operations in the **Mahikeng, North West** region. This critical on-site role requires a strong leader with a deep understanding of livestock management, pasture management, and efficient operational logistics. You will be responsible for the day-to-day management of ranch activities, ensuring the health and welfare of the herds, optimizing grazing resources, and maintaining infrastructure. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving operational efficiency, productivity, and sustainability across large land areas. This position demands hands‑on leadership, strategic planning, and the ability to manage a diverse workforce in a challenging, often remote, environment. You will play a key role in maintaining the high standards and productivity of one of the region's significant agricultural enterprises.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of livestock operations, including breeding, feeding, health monitoring, and herd movement.
• Develop and implement effective grazing management plans to ensure sustainable pasture utilization.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of ranch infrastructure, including fences, water points, housing, and vehicles.
• Manage a team of farm workers, including recruitment, training, supervision, and performance management.
• Ensure compliance with animal welfare standards, biosecurity protocols, and environmental regulations.
• Manage inventory of feed, veterinary supplies, and other essential ranching inputs.
• Oversee budgeting and cost control for ranch operations.
• Implement and monitor strategies to mitigate livestock losses due to predation or disease.
• Maintain accurate records of livestock numbers, health status, production data, and operational expenses.
• Foster a safe and productive working environment for all ranch staff.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in livestock management, preferably in extensive ranching operations.
• Proven experience in managing large herds of cattle, sheep, or other livestock.
• Strong understanding of pasture management, rangeland ecology, and rotational grazing.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing a rural workforce.
• Knowledge of animal health, disease prevention, and biosecurity practices.
• Excellent organizational, planning, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in remote and challenging environments, often with limited supervision.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Valid driver's license is essential; a professional driver's permit is an advantage.
• Experience with relevant farm management software and technologies is beneficial.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-related bonuses.
• Accommodation provided on or near the ranch.
• Comprehensive medical aid coverage.
• Opportunities for professional development in livestock management.
• Use of company vehicles and equipment.
• A stable role within a reputable agricultural enterprise.
• Contribution to the productivity and sustainability of the livestock sector.
• Retirement fund benefits.
• Paid annual leave.
• Potential for career advancement within the organization.