Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Commercial Agriculture

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Housing allowance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee extensive farming operations in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will lead diverse teams, manage budgets, and ensure efficient crop production with a focus on safety and environmental compliance.

The role requires deep agronomy know-how, strong leadership, and hands-on management of machinery and logistics to boost yields and profitability on-site in the Pretoria region.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive experience in managing large-scale commercial farm operations.
• Strong leadership and people-management skills.
• Experience in crop production, soil and irrigation management.
• Budgeting, cost control, and financial acumen.
• Proficiency with farm management software and standard office tools.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily farm operations including planting, irrigation, pest control and harvest.
• Develop and manage annual operating plans and budgets.
• Supervise and train farm workers and operators.
• Maintain and optimize farm machinery and infrastructure.
• Ensure health, safety, and environmental policies.
• Monitor crop performance and adjust strategies.
• Coordinate with suppliers, contractors and buyers to ensure logistics.
• Drive initiatives to improve efficiency and crop yields.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Strategic planning

Team leadership

Problem solving

Education

Degree in Agriculture

Agronomy

Farm Management

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in commercial agriculture, is seeking a highly capable and experienced Farm Operations Manager to oversee extensive farming operations in Pretoria, Gauteng . This demanding role requires strong leadership, strategic planning, and hands‑on expertise in managing all facets of large‑scale crop production. You will be responsible for ensuring optimal efficiency, productivity, and profitability across multiple farm units. This is a critical position that directly impacts the success of the business, requiring a deep understanding of agronomy, resource management, and team leadership. The successful candidate will be based on-site, providing direct supervision and strategic direction to farm personnel. We are committed to operational excellence and are looking for a manager who shares this vision and can drive continuous improvement in all aspects of farm management within the Pretoria region.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily farm operations, including planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting for a variety of crops.
• Develop and implement annual farm operating plans and budgets, ensuring adherence to financial targets.
• Supervise, train, and motivate a diverse team of farm workers, supervisors, and equipment operators.
• Oversee the maintenance and efficient use of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Implement and enforce health, safety, and environmental policies and procedures on the farm.
• Monitor crop performance, soil conditions, and weather patterns, making timely adjustments to operational strategies.
• Manage inventory of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural inputs.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations and industry standards.
• Coordinate with suppliers, contractors, and buyers to ensure smooth logistical operations.
• Drive initiatives to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance crop yields and quality.

Requirements

• Degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in managing large-scale commercial farm operations.
• Proven experience in crop production, soil management, irrigation systems, and pest control.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to build and maintain a high-performing team.
• Excellent financial acumen and experience in budgeting and cost control.
• Proficiency in farm management software and standard office applications.
• In-depth knowledge of agricultural machinery and maintenance requirements.
• Understanding of South African agricultural landscape, regulations, and market dynamics specific to Gauteng .
• Strong problem-solving and decision‑making abilities under pressure.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to work extended hours during peak seasons.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package and performance‑based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Accommodation or housing allowance may be provided.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading agricultural company.
• Access to modern farm equipment and technology.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment in the heart of Pretoria 's agricultural region.
• Generous annual leave and paid sick leave.
• The chance to lead significant agricultural production and contribute to food security.