Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Horticulture

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional growth opportunities

Exposure to modern agtech and best-prt

Gauteng region focus

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Farm Operations Manager for a major horticultural enterprise in Vereeniging, Gauteng. You will oversee day-to-day farm activities, optimize production, and lead a diverse team to deliver high-quality crops while maintaining sustainability and safety standards.

The role requires a Diploma or Degree in Agriculture or Horticulture, at least five years in farm management, and proven leadership.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of large-scale farm management experience.
• Strong leadership and team-building abilities.
• Knowledge of horticulture best practices and sustainability.
• Experience with budgeting and cost control.
• Proven ability to optimize irrigation and post-harvest handling.

Responsibilities

• Supervise horticultural production, planting, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting.
• Develop annual operating plans and farm budgets.
• Lead and train farm workers, supervisors, and technical staff.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Monitor crop health and implement corrective actions to maximize yield.
• Oversee inventory and maintenance of equipment.
• Promote sustainable farming and water conservation.
• Coordinate with suppliers, buyers, and service providers.
• Contribute to long-term strategic planning of farm operations.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Budgeting

Organizational skills

Irrigation systems

Crop production knowledge

Education

Diploma or Degree in Agriculture or Horticulture

Tools

Farm machinery

Irrigation systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural enterprise, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Farm Operations Manager to oversee their extensive horticultural operations in **Vereeniging, Gauteng**. This key leadership position involves managing all day-to-day activities on the farm, ensuring efficient production, and maintaining high standards of quality and sustainability. You will be responsible for leading a diverse team, optimizing resource allocation, and implementing best practices in cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of horticultural science, excellent leadership abilities, and a proven track record in managing large-scale agricultural operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage all aspects of horticultural production, including planting, irrigation, pest control, and harvesting.


• Develop and implement annual operating plans and budgets for the farm.


• Lead, train, and motivate a team of farm workers, supervisors, and technical staff.


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


• Monitor crop health and growth, implementing corrective actions as needed to maximize yield and quality.


• Manage inventory of supplies, equipment, and machinery, ensuring efficient maintenance and utilization.


• Oversee the implementation of sustainable farming practices and water conservation techniques.


• Liaise with suppliers, buyers, and external service providers.


• Contribute to the strategic planning and long-term development of the farm operations.

Requirements

• Diploma or Degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, or a related field.


• Minimum of 5 years of experience in farm management, preferably with a focus on large-scale horticulture.


• Proven leadership and team management skills.


• Strong knowledge of horticultural best practices, crop production cycles, and pest/disease management.


• Experience with irrigation systems, farm machinery, and operational logistics.


• Excellent organizational and time management skills.


• Proficiency in basic farm accounting and budgeting.


• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, hands-on environment in **Vereeniging**.


• Strong understanding of South African agricultural landscape and compliance.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with performance incentives.


• Employees receive comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.


• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within a reputable agricultural organization are available.


• The role offers a chance to work with modern agricultural technologies and contribute to sustainable food production in the **Gauteng** region.


• This position is ideal for a results-oriented manager seeking to make a tangible impact.