Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Horticulture

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

On-site accommodation or housing

Medical aid and retirement fund

Company vehicle for official duties

Paid annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager for our client’s extensive horticultural farms near Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The role oversees day-to-day operations, resources, and a diverse workforce to ensure productivity and quality.

You will develop operational plans, manage budgets and safety, and drive adoption of innovative farming techniques while maintaining strong supplier and stakeholder relationships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Business Management, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive farm management experience on large-scale horticulture operations.
• Proven experience leading diverse teams and complex operations.
• Knowledge of KwaZulu-Natal crops, irrigation, soil management, and pest control.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with budgeting, cost control, and farm finance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily farm operations including planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest control and harvesting.
• Develop and implement operational plans to meet production targets and quality standards.
• Lead a team of farm workers, supervisors and technical staff with a focus on safety.
• Optimize resources: water, fertilizers, labor and equipment.
• Enforce health, safety and environmental policies on the farm.
• Maintain crop, input, labor and financial records for accountability.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations and best practices.
• Manage relationships with suppliers, contractors and stakeholders.
• Oversee maintenance and repair of machinery and infrastructure.
• Identify and implement new technologies to improve productivity and sustainability.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Budgeting

Team management

Software proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture / Horticulture / Business Management

Tools

Farm management software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent agricultural enterprise operating extensive horticultural farms near Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking an experienced and results-driven Farm Operations Manager. This role is crucial for overseeing the day-to-day management of large-scale farming operations, ensuring optimal efficiency, productivity, and adherence to quality standards. You will be responsible for managing resources, leading a diverse workforce, and implementing innovative farming techniques within the Agriculture & Forestry sector. This is a hands‑on position requiring strong leadership, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to agricultural excellence in the KwaZulu-Natal region. The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining and enhancing the farm's reputation for producing high-quality crops.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of daily farm operations, including planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting.
• Develop and implement operational plans to meet production targets and quality standards.
• Manage and lead a team of farm workers, supervisors, and technical staff, ensuring effective performance and safety.
• Optimize resource allocation, including water, fertilizers, labor, and equipment, to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.
• Implement and enforce strict health, safety, and environmental policies on the farm.
• Maintain detailed records of crops, yields, inputs, labor, and financial performance.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations and industry best practices.
• Manage relationships with suppliers, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Oversee the maintenance and repair of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Identify and implement new technologies and methods to improve farm productivity and sustainability.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Business Management, or a related field.
• At least 8 years of progressive experience in farm management, with a strong focus on large-scale horticultural operations.
• Proven experience in managing diverse teams and complex operational environments.
• In-depth knowledge of horticultural crops grown in the KwaZulu-Natal region, including their cultivation requirements and challenges.
• Strong understanding of irrigation systems, soil management, and pest/disease control strategies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and control operational costs effectively.
• Valid driver's license and ability to reside within a commutable distance to the farm near Durban.
• Experience with export market standards and certifications is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package and performance-based bonuses.
• On-site accommodation or housing allowance may be provided.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave.
• Opportunities for professional development and training in advanced farming techniques.
• Access to modern farming equipment and technologies.
• A stable and challenging role within a reputable agricultural organization.
• Company vehicle for official duties.
• Contribution to the growth and success of Durban's agricultural sector.
• Supportive management team dedicated to operational excellence.