Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Agriculture

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Accommodation provided

Professional development

Bonus incentives

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Farm Operations Manager to lead a large-scale operation near Rustenburg, North West. You will plan production, manage budgets, supervise staff and ensure safety, efficiency and sustainable farming practices.

The role requires deep agronomy knowledge, experience with irrigation and mechanization, and a track record of improving productivity and profitability on a busy farm.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive farm operations management experience.
• Experience managing budgets and optimizing efficiency.
• Solid knowledge of crop science, soils, irrigation, and machinery.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Proficient in farm management software and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop annual farm production plans including crops, planting, and harvesting strategies.
• Manage all farm labor from recruitment to performance evaluation.
• Oversee maintenance and operation of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Implement crop management programs including irrigation, fertilization, and pest control.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and optimize profitability.
• Maintain detailed records of activities, yields, inputs, and financial performance.
• Procure supplies, equipment, and services; liaise with suppliers and extension services.
• Implement soil health and water management strategies for sustainability.

Skills

Farm management

Leadership

Budget management

Data analysis

Irrigation systems

Agricultural machinery

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee a significant agricultural operation near **Rustenburg**, North West Province. This role is critical to ensuring the efficient and profitable running of the farm, managing all aspects of production from planning to execution. The successful candidate will be responsible for optimizing resource allocation, implementing best farming practices, and driving productivity. This is an opportunity to lead a dedicated team and contribute to a substantial agricultural enterprise. You will be involved in crop planning, resource management, and operational efficiency, ensuring that all activities align with the company's strategic goals and sustainability targets. A strong understanding of modern farming techniques, including mechanization and irrigation systems, is essential. The role demands exceptional leadership skills, a keen eye for detail, and a results-oriented approach. You will be expected to foster a culture of safety and high performance among the farm staff. This position requires a deep commitment to the agricultural sector and a passion for excellence in farm management. We are looking for a candidate who can effectively manage budgets, improve operational workflows, and contribute to the long-term success of the farm. The challenge lies in adapting to diverse agricultural needs and ensuring consistent output in a dynamic environment. This is more than just a management role; it is a leadership position shaping the future of a significant farming operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Developing and executing annual farm production plans, including crop selection, planting schedules, and harvesting strategies.


• Managing all farm labor, including recruitment, training, supervision, and performance evaluation.


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


• Implementing and monitoring crop management programs, including irrigation, fertilization, and pest control.


• Ensuring compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.


• Managing farm budgets, controlling costs, and optimizing profitability.


• Maintaining detailed records of farm activities, yields, inputs, and financial performance.


• Procuring necessary supplies, equipment, and services.


• Liaising with suppliers, buyers, and agricultural extension services.


• Implementing strategies to improve soil health and water management for sustainable farming.

Requirements

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


• At least 8 years of progressive experience in farm operations management, preferably in large-scale crop production.


• Demonstrated experience in managing farm budgets and optimizing operational efficiency.


• Strong knowledge of crop science, soil management, irrigation systems, and agricultural machinery.


• Proven leadership and team management skills.


• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.


• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis.


• Valid driver's license and a clean driving record.


• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays during peak seasons.


• Strong understanding of agricultural best practices and sustainability principles.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package ranging from R per annum.


• Performance-based incentives and bonuses.


• Comprehensive medical aid coverage.


• Retirement savings plan contribution.


• Accommodation may be provided.


• Opportunities for professional development and training.


• A stable and supportive work environment.


• Paid leave entitlement.


• Direct impact on a significant agricultural operation.


• Access to modern farming equipment and technologies.