Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Grain Production

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager for our client in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will oversee end-to-end grain production operations, lead a skilled workforce, and manage significant budgets to maximize profitability.

The role requires at least 10 years of farming experience, including 5 years in management, with expertise in maize, wheat, or soybeans. Strong leadership, agronomy knowledge, and proficiency with farm management software are essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of progressive farming experience, with ≥5 years in a management role.
• Experience in grain crop production (maize, wheat, soybeans) in the Eastern Cape region.
• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day farm operations for large-scale grain production (planning, planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, harvesting).
• Lead and motivate a team of farm workers and supervisors to ensure high performance.
• Develop and manage the farm's annual operating budget and control costs.
• Implement best practices in agronomy, soil health, and water conservation.
• Oversee maintenance and efficient use of farm machinery and infrastructure.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Manage grain storage facilities and ensure proper handling and quality control.
• Liaise with suppliers, service providers, and buyers for smooth operations and market access.
• Adopt new technologies and farming techniques to improve yield and efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Team management

Communication

Resource allocation

Agronomy knowledge

Pest management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture

Bachelor's degree in Agronomy

Bachelor's degree in Farm Management

Tools

Farm management software

Modern farm machinery

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural enterprise in **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape**, is seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Farm Operations Manager to oversee their extensive grain production operations. This critical role involves managing all facets of the farm, from planting and cultivation to harvesting and post-harvest storage, with a focus on maximizing efficiency, productivity, and profitability. You will lead a skilled workforce, manage significant operational budgets, and implement best practices in crop management, resource utilization, and sustainability. This is an exceptional opportunity to take charge of large-scale agricultural operations in a key South African farming region and contribute to the nation's food security.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day farm operations, including crop planning, planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting for large-scale grain production.
• Manage and motivate a team of farm workers and supervisors, ensuring efficient labor allocation and high performance standards.
• Develop and manage the farm's annual operating budget, controlling costs and optimizing resource allocation for maximum profitability.
• Implement and monitor best practices in agronomy, soil health management, and water conservation.
• Oversee the maintenance and efficient use of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Manage grain storage facilities, ensuring proper handling and quality control.
• Liaise with suppliers, service providers, and buyers to ensure smooth operation and optimal market access.
• Implement new technologies and innovative farming techniques to improve yield and efficiency.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in large-scale commercial farming operations, with at least 5 years in a management role.
• Proven expertise in grain crop production (e.g., maize, wheat, soybeans) in the **Eastern Cape** region or similar environments.
• Strong understanding of crop physiology, soil science, and integrated pest management.
• Demonstrated experience in budget management, resource allocation, and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and general computer applications.
• Experience with modern farm machinery and technology.
• A valid driver's license is essential, and willingness to travel across the operational areas.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, along with performance-based bonuses and comprehensive benefits, including medical aid and retirement fund contributions. You will have access to modern farming equipment and resources. This role provides a significant opportunity for career advancement within a leading agricultural organization. We support continuous professional development and offer a challenging yet rewarding work environment in the **Port Elizabeth** area.