Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Produce

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

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle

Medical aid and retirement fund

Accommodation or housing allowance

Training and development

Annual leave and public holidays

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Farm Operations Manager for a prominent agricultural producer near Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The role combines on-site leadership with strategic planning to optimise crop planning, resource allocation and staff supervision across a major produce division.

The candidate will lead a large workforce, manage budgets, ensure health and safety compliance, and drive continuous improvement in operations using farm management software and data analytics.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Science, Agribusiness Management, or related field
• Master's degree preferred

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all daily farm operations, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling of diverse produce
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to optimize resources (water, fertiliser, labor, machinery) and maximize yield and quality
• Supervise and mentor a large team of farm workers and supervisors, ensuring safety and productivity
• Manage the farm budget to meet production targets and profitability goals
• Enforce health, safety, and environmental policies and ensure regulatory compliance
• Maintain farm machinery and infrastructure, coordinating maintenance and repairs
• Develop relationships with suppliers, contractors, and buyers for efficient supply chain
• Monitor market trends and best practices for innovation and improvement
• Ensure accurate record-keeping of production data and expenditures

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural producer with extensive operations near Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is actively recruiting for a seasoned and strategic Farm Operations Manager. This key role is responsible for the efficient and profitable management of all farming activities, including crop planning, resource allocation, staff supervision, and ensuring adherence to the highest standards of quality and sustainability. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of large-scale agricultural production, and a commitment to operational excellence. This is a critical position within our client's organization, directly impacting the success of their produce division. The role offers a blend of on-site leadership and strategic planning, requiring presence at the farm operations hub while allowing for remote coordination and reporting. The unique agricultural landscape and logistical advantages of the Durban region provide an exciting backdrop for this role. Join a company that is at the forefront of agricultural innovation and committed to feeding communities across South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all daily farm operations, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling of a diverse range of produce.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to optimize resource utilization (water, fertilizer, labor, machinery) and maximize crop yields and quality.
• Supervise, train, and mentor a large team of farm workers and supervisors, fostering a productive and safe working environment.
• Manage the farm's budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness while achieving production targets and profitability goals.
• Implement and enforce strict health, safety, and environmental policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
• Maintain and ensure the optimal functioning of farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure, coordinating maintenance and repair schedules.
• Develop and manage relationships with suppliers, contractors, and buyers to ensure efficient supply chain management.
• Monitor market trends and agricultural best practices to identify opportunities for innovation and improvement in operations.
• Ensure accurate record-keeping of all operational activities, including production data, financial expenditures, and compliance documentation.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Science, Agribusiness Management, or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in farm management, with a significant portion focused on large-scale commercial produce farming.
• Proven experience in managing diverse teams and complex operational budgets.
• Strong knowledge of crop science, soil management, irrigation techniques, pest and disease control, and post-harvest handling.
• Proficiency in farm management software and data analysis for operational decision-making.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and manage diverse workforces.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement strategic operational plans and achieve performance targets.
• Understanding of supply chain logistics and market dynamics for agricultural produce.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the KwaZulu-Natal region and potentially beyond.
• Experience with organic farming practices or specific certifications is advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance for business travel.
• Accommodation or housing allowance may be provided.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement within a growing agricultural enterprise.
• Access to modern farming technology and resources.
• Annual leave and paid public holidays.
• A challenging yet rewarding role contributing to food security in South Africa.
• Training and development programs focused on leadership and agricultural best practices.