Farm Operations Manager - Sustainable Agriculture

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Provident fund

Life insurance

Professional development opportunities

Company vehicle with fuel allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager for a large mixed-farming operation in Centurion, Gauteng. You’ll oversee crops, livestock, budgets, and a supervisory team to drive productivity and sustainable practices.

This hands-on role requires strong agronomic knowledge, leadership, and a proactive approach to optimize performance, safety, and environmental compliance while building supplier and regulator relationships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years in farm operations with supervisory experience.
• Strong crop production and/or livestock management experience in Gauteng.
• Solid understanding of sustainable agriculture principles.
• Proven leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent financial management and budgeting skills.
• Proficiency with farm management software and common IT applications.
• Knowledge of agricultural machinery operation and maintenance.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making and organizational skills.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to work weekends/holidays as required.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of farm operations, including crop planning and harvesting.
• Oversee livestock health, welfare and productivity programs.
• Develop and manage annual operating budgets for the farm.
• Supervise, train and motivate farm workers and supervisors.
• Implement sustainable farming practices, soil and water management.
• Ensure maintenance and efficient operation of farm machinery.
• Manage inventory of seeds, inputs, and other supplies.
• Maintain accurate farm records and compliance documentation.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with agronomists, veterinarians and other experts.
• Develop and execute strategic plans to boost productivity and sustainability.
• Manage relationships with suppliers, contractors and regulators.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Farm operations management

Crop production

Livestock management

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management or related field

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

Farm management software

General computer applications

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive agricultural enterprise renowned for its commitment to sustainable practices, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Farm Operations Manager. This critical role, based in the fertile region of Centurion, Gauteng , is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a large-scale mixed-farming operation. The ideal candidate will possess a strong blend of technical agronomic knowledge, exceptional leadership skills, and a proven ability to manage resources efficiently while upholding the highest standards of environmental stewardship. You will lead a dedicated team, ensuring optimal crop production, livestock management, and operational efficiency. This is a hands‑on position demanding a proactive approach and a deep understanding of modern agricultural challenges and opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of farm operations, including crop planning, planting, cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling.


• Oversee livestock management programs, ensuring the health, welfare, and productivity of all animals.


• Develop and manage annual operating budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability.


• Supervise, train, and motivate a team of farm workers and supervisors, fostering a positive and productive work environment.


• Implement and monitor sustainable farming practices, including soil conservation, water management, and integrated pest management strategies.


• Ensure the maintenance and efficient operation of all farm machinery, equipment, and infrastructure.


• Manage inventory of seeds, fertilizers, chemicals, feed, and other essential supplies.


• Maintain accurate farm records, including production data, financial transactions, and compliance documentation.


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


• Collaborate with agronomists, veterinarians, and other technical experts to optimize farm performance.


• Develop and execute strategic plans to enhance farm productivity and long‑term sustainability.


• Manage relationships with suppliers, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Farm Management, or a related field. A Master's degree is advantageous.


• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in farm operations management, with a significant portion in a supervisory capacity.


• Demonstrated expertise in crop production and/or livestock management relevant to the Gauteng region.


• Strong understanding of sustainable agriculture principles and practices.


• Proven leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide diverse workforces.


• Excellent financial management and budgeting skills.


• Proficiency in farm management software and general computer applications.


• Strong knowledge of agricultural machinery operation, maintenance, and repair.


• Excellent problem-solving, decision‑making, and organizational skills.


• Valid driver's license and a willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays as required by operational demands.


• Commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and environmental responsibility.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, reflecting the significant responsibilities of this role. In addition to the base salary, performance-based bonuses are available.


• The benefits package includes comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and life insurance.


• Opportunities for professional development, including advanced training courses and workshops, are provided.


• A company vehicle, along with a fuel allowance, is provided for farm‑related travel.


• The position is based on‑site in Centurion , offering a dynamic and challenging work environment within a respected agricultural organization.