Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package with bonus

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Company vehicle and accommodation

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a seasoned Farm Operations Manager to lead strategic planning, execution, and oversight of large-scale farming across multiple operations near Rustenburg. You will optimize water, labour, and machinery, drive efficiency, and ensure profitability while embracing sustainable farming practices.

The role requires 10+ years in farm management with significant leadership experience, strong budgeting acumen, and proficiency in farm management software.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness Management, or related field.
• Master's degree preferred for senior leadership roles.
• Minimum 10 years in large-scale farm management with at least 5 years in a managerial capacity.
• Proven expertise across diverse crop types and rotations; North West context preferred.
• Strong knowledge of agronomic practices, irrigation systems, and farm mechanisation.
• Experience in financial management, budgeting, and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis tools.
• Willingness to travel within Rustenburg operational areas and hold a valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Develop annual operating plans for all farm sections aligned with objectives.
• Oversee crop planning, planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling.
• Manage farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure for optimal performance.
• Lead and train farm managers and field staff, promoting safety and high performance.
• Implement modern farming techniques: precision agriculture, irrigation management, pest control.
• Manage farm budget and ensure profitability targets are met.
• Oversee procurement of seeds, fertilizers, and inputs.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural, environmental, and safety regulations.
• Monitor market trends and advise on crop selection and marketing strategies.
• Maintain robust record-keeping for operations and finances.

Skills

Leadership & team management

Budgeting & financial management

Communication

Data analysis

Irrigation systems knowledge

Farm management software

Strategic decision making

Willingness to travel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related field

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Farm management software

Irrigation management tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant agricultural entity operating extensive farmlands near Rustenburg , is actively searching for a seasoned and results-oriented Farm Operations Manager. This senior leadership position is responsible for the strategic planning, execution, and oversight of all farming activities across multiple large-scale operations. The successful candidate will be adept at managing diverse crop production cycles, optimizing resource allocation (water, labor, machinery), and implementing cutting-edge agricultural technologies to drive efficiency and profitability. A strong understanding of financial management, risk mitigation, and sustainable farming practices is essential. This role demands a proactive leader who can motivate teams, ensure operational excellence, and contribute to the company's growth in the competitive agricultural market. The role is based in the Rustenburg area, offering a dynamic and impactful career opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute annual operating plans for all farm sections, aligning with company objectives and market demands.
• Oversee crop planning, planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling for a variety of crops.
• Manage and optimize the use of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance and maintenance.
• Lead, train, and supervise farm managers and field staff, fostering a culture of high performance and safety.
• Implement and monitor modern farming techniques, including precision agriculture, irrigation management, and integrated pest control.
• Manage the farm budget, control expenses, and ensure profitability targets are met or exceeded.
• Oversee procurement of seeds, fertilizers, chemicals, and other necessary inputs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural, environmental, and health and safety regulations in Rustenburg .
• Monitor market trends and advise on crop selection and marketing strategies.
• Implement and manage robust record-keeping systems for all operational activities and financial transactions.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is preferred.
• A minimum of 10 years of comprehensive experience in large-scale farm management, with at least 5 years in a managerial role.
• Proven expertise in managing diverse crop types and rotations, preferably within the North West province context.
• Strong knowledge of modern agronomic practices, irrigation systems, and farm mechanization.
• Demonstrated experience in financial management, budgeting, and cost control within an agricultural setting.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis tools.
• Ability to make strategic decisions under pressure and adapt to changing conditions.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel regularly within the operational areas around Rustenburg .
• Strong understanding of South African agricultural policies and regulations.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive executive salary package, including a significant performance bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid and a generous retirement fund are included.
• This role offers the opportunity to manage substantial agricultural operations, drive innovation, and contribute to a company with a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture.
• Professional development opportunities, including advanced management training and exposure to international agricultural trends, will be provided.
• A company vehicle and accommodation allowance may be part of the remuneration package for this key position in Rustenburg .