Head of Operations - Agro-Processing

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance (family)

Retirement fund

Company vehicle or car allowance

Travel expense reimbursement

Generous paid time off

Leadership training opportunities

Industry-specific professional forums

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct, based in Mahikeng, North West, seeks a seasoned Head of Operations – Agro-Processing to steer our agro-processing facilities. The role requires strategic oversight of production, quality, and supply chain, with both on-site leadership and remote collaboration to drive initiatives.

The successful candidate will command 10+ years in operations, with deep knowledge of food safety standards and lean practices.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Agricultural Science, Food Science, Operations Management, or a related field.
• 10+ years in operations management with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role in agro-processing or food manufacturing.
• Extensive knowledge of agricultural production, processing and supply chain dynamics.
• Experience managing operations in the North West region.
• Strong knowledge of food safety regulations and quality management systems.
• Excellent leadership, strategic planning and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in financial management and budgeting.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment (on-site and remote).
• Experience with relevant processing technologies and equipment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of agro-processing facilities.
• Develop strategies to improve efficiency, yield, and quality.
• Manage the supply chain from farm to finished product.
• Ensure HACCP, GMP and regulatory compliance.
• Lead and mentor operational teams, fostering excellence.
• Manage budgets, control costs, optimize resources.
• Oversee maintenance of equipment and infrastructure.
• Implement Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with procurement, R&D, and sales to align operations with business goals.
• Maintain a safe and compliant working environment for all staff.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Problem-solving

Communication

Financial management

Team development

Education

Master's degree in Agricultural Science / Food Science / Operations Management

Tools

HACCP knowledge

GMP familiarity

Lean manufacturing

Job description

About the Role

Our client, WhatJobs Direct , is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Head of Operations - Agro-Processing to lead our extensive operations in Mahikeng . This senior leadership role is critical for overseeing all aspects of our agro-processing facilities, ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance within this vital sector. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of agricultural processes, food safety standards, and supply chain management specific to the North West province. This hybrid position requires a leader who can effectively manage on-site operations while also driving strategic initiatives through remote collaboration and oversight. You will be responsible for optimizing production, managing resources, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and safety. We are looking for a results-driven individual capable of enhancing productivity and profitability in a competitive agricultural market.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all daily operations of the agro-processing facilities.


• Develop and implement strategies to improve operational efficiency, yield, and quality.


• Manage the entire supply chain from farm to finished product.


• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, quality, and regulatory standards (e.g., HACCP, GMP).


• Lead, mentor, and develop operational teams, promoting a culture of excellence.


• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and optimize resource allocation.


• Oversee maintenance of equipment and infrastructure.


• Implement lean manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.


• Collaborate with procurement, R&D, and sales teams to align operations with business objectives.


• Ensure a safe and compliant working environment for all employees.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Agricultural Science, Food Science, Operations Management, or a related field.


• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in operations management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within the agro-processing or food manufacturing industry.


• Extensive knowledge of agricultural production, processing, and supply chain dynamics.


• Proven experience in managing operations in the North West region.


• Strong understanding of food safety regulations and quality management systems.


• Excellent leadership, strategic planning, and problem-solving skills.


• Proficiency in financial management and budgeting.


• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities.


• Experience with relevant processing technologies and equipment.


• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation package, including a substantial annual salary and a significant performance-based bonus structure tied to operational achievements. Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, is provided for employees and their families. A generous retirement fund with substantial employer contributions is part of the package. Opportunities for advanced leadership training, industry-specific professional development, and participation in agricultural technology forums are available. This role includes a company vehicle or car allowance and travel expense reimbursement for business needs. You will be entitled to generous paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays. Our client is committed to innovation and provides access to modern agro-processing technologies and resources. This is a chance to lead a key operation in a vital industry.