Farm Operations Manager - Sustainable Farming Practices

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing allowance

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Farm Operations Manager for a prominent agricultural enterprise in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The role requires leadership of all farm activities, from crop planning to labor management and resource optimization, with a strong focus on sustainability and profitability.

You will oversee budgets, ensure regulatory compliance, and drive continuous improvement in production processes while maintaining ecological integrity across South Africa.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Management or related field.
• Master's degree is advantageous for progression.
• Minimum 8 years progressive experience in farm management or large-scale operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive farm operational plans (crop rotation, planting, harvesting, pest management).
• Manage and supervise farm staff; provide training and set performance expectations.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Farm management software

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or related field

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

MS Office Suite

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural enterprise committed to ethical and sustainable farming, is seeking an experienced and visionary Farm Operations Manager for their expansive operations based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This leadership position requires a proactive individual with a deep understanding of modern agricultural techniques, operational efficiency, and a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of farm management, from crop planning and execution to labor management and resource optimization. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a dedicated team and implement innovative strategies that enhance productivity while preserving the ecological integrity of the land in South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive farm operational plans, including crop rotation, planting schedules, harvesting strategies, and pest management programs.
• Manage and supervise farm staff, providing training, setting performance expectations, and fostering a positive work environment.
• Oversee the efficient use of resources, including water, fertilizers, pesticides, and machinery, ensuring adherence to sustainable practices.
• Implement and monitor quality control measures throughout the production cycle to ensure high-quality produce.
• Manage the farm budget, track expenses, and ensure profitability while adhering to financial targets.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Maintain detailed records of farm activities, yields, expenses, and inventory.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and implement new technologies to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability.
• Liaise with suppliers, buyers, and other stakeholders to ensure smooth supply chain operations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Management, or a related field. A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in farm management or agricultural operations, with a proven ability to manage large-scale farming projects.
• Strong knowledge of crop production, soil management, pest control, and irrigation systems.
• Demonstrated experience in implementing and managing sustainable and organic farming practices.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and general computer applications (MS Office Suite).
• Solid understanding of financial management, budgeting, and cost control principles.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and make sound decisions in a dynamic environment.
• Knowledge of the agricultural landscape in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, performance bonuses, housing allowance, comprehensive medical aid, and a retirement fund.
• You will have access to ongoing professional development opportunities and the chance to lead impactful agricultural initiatives in Durban.
• Join a company that is dedicated to advancing agriculture responsibly.