Forestry Operations Manager

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; Remote; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Forestry Operations Manager to oversee remote forest resources and operations, including silviculture, harvesting, logistics, and environmental compliance. Lead a team of foresters and staff across diverse locations, driving safety, efficiency and sustainable practices.

The role demands strategic planning, budgeting, and familiarity with forestry software and GIS. Travel to operational sites may be required to ensure program success and regulatory adherence.

Qualifications

• Degree in Forestry, Forest Management, Environmental Science, or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive forest management and operations experience with sustainability focus.
• Proven track record in large-scale forestry operations including harvesting and silviculture.
• In-depth knowledge of forest ecology, timber assessment, and wood products.
• Strong understanding of environmental regulations and sustainable forestry principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in forestry software, GIS, and data analysis tools.
• Ability to develop and manage budgets effectively.
• Demonstrated experience in risk management and problem-solving in complex operational environments.
• Willingness to travel to operational sites as needed.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for forest management, including planting, thinning, and harvesting schedules.
• Oversee all aspects of timber harvesting operations, ensuring efficiency, safety, and quality control.
• Manage silvicultural programs, including site preparation, reforestation, and stand improvement.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and permits.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, controlling costs and optimizing resources.
• Supervise foresters and field staff, promoting safety and continuous improvement.
• Manage relationships with contractors, suppliers, and stakeholders.
• Oversee forest inventory, mapping, and data management systems.
• Implement pest and disease management strategies.
• Contribute to sustainable forestry certification programs.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

GIS

Data analysis

Budgeting

Risk management

Travel willingness

Education

Degree in Forestry/Forest Management/Environmental Science

Tools

GIS software

Forestry software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in sustainable forestry and timber production, is seeking an accomplished Forestry Operations Manager to oversee their extensive forest resources and operational activities. This role, servicing clients and operations remotely, focuses on the strategic management, planning, and execution of all phases of forestry operations, including silviculture, harvesting, logistics, and environmental compliance. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the efficient, safe, and sustainable management of forest estates, maximizing timber yields while adhering to stringent environmental regulations and conservation principles. This position offers the unique advantage of remote management, allowing for strategic oversight of operations that may span various locations, with a key focus on the rich forest resources potentially near Kimberley, Northern Cape or other operational hubs. You will lead a team of foresters and operational staff, driving efficiency and best practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans for forest management, including planting, thinning, and harvesting schedules.


• Oversee all aspects of timber harvesting operations, ensuring efficiency, safety, and quality control.


• Manage silvicultural programs, including site preparation, reforestation, and stand improvement.


• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations, conservation standards, and permits.


• Develop and manage operational budgets, controlling costs and optimizing resource allocation.


• Supervise and mentor foresters and field staff, promoting a culture of safety and continuous improvement.


• Manage relationships with contractors, suppliers, and relevant stakeholders.


• Oversee forest inventory, mapping, and data management systems.


• Implement strategies for pest and disease management within the forest ecosystems.


• Contribute to the development and implementation of sustainable forestry certification programs.

Requirements

• Degree in Forestry, Forest Management, Environmental Science, or a related field.


• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in forest management and operations, with a strong emphasis on sustainable practices.


• Proven track record in managing large-scale forestry operations, including harvesting and silviculture.


• In-depth knowledge of forest ecology, timber assessment, and wood products.


• Strong understanding of environmental regulations and sustainable forestry principles.


• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.


• Proficiency in forestry software, GIS, and data analysis tools.


• Ability to develop and manage budgets effectively.


• Demonstrated experience in risk management and problem-solving in complex operational environments.


• Willingness to travel to operational sites as needed.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with extensive experience and remote leadership capabilities, along with significant performance-based bonuses. Comprehensive benefits include health insurance, a robust retirement fund, and life assurance. This role provides excellent opportunities for professional development, including advanced training in forest management technologies and participation in industry leadership programs. The flexibility of remote management allows for excellent work-life integration. You will be instrumental in shaping sustainable forestry practices across the company's managed forests. We value innovation and provide a dynamic, collaborative work environment. Generous annual leave and potential for travel stipends are included.