Horticultural Operations Manager

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 432,000 - 528,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement annuity

Professional development

Annual leave and sick leave

Travel allowance

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is sourcing a Horticultural Operations Manager near George, Western Cape. The role oversees propagation to harvest, drives quality, and optimizes resources while leading a dedicated team to deliver premium horticultural products for domestic and export markets.

The successful candidate will apply plant science expertise, implement innovative techniques, and ensure safety, compliance, and efficient operations across all production stages.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive horticultural management experience.
• Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Plant Science, or related field.
• Experience with greenhouse or open-field crop production.
• Knowledge of plant physiology, soil science, and pest/disease management.

Responsibilities

• Manage and supervise planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest and disease control, and harvesting.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to meet production targets and quality standards.
• Optimize resource allocation including labor, water, and materials for cost-effectiveness.
• Lead, train, and motivate a team of horticultural technicians and workers.
• Ensure strict quality control and maintain detailed crop performance records.
• Research and introduce innovative horticultural techniques and technologies.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with sales and marketing to align production with market demands.
• Manage relationships with suppliers and external service providers.

Skills

Leadership

Horticultural knowledge

Data analysis

Project planning

Education

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture / Agriculture / Plant Science

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent horticultural producer situated near George, Western Cape , is seeking a dynamic and experienced Horticultural Operations Manager. This senior position is responsible for overseeing all aspects of horticultural production, from propagation to harvest, ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficiency. The successful candidate will lead a dedicated team, manage resources effectively, and drive innovation in horticultural practices. This role offers a significant opportunity to shape the operations of a well-established business in the picturesque Western Cape region, contributing to the production of premium horticultural products for both domestic and international markets. We are looking for a proactive leader passionate about plant science and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Manage and supervise all horticultural activities, including planting, cultivation, irrigation, pest and disease control, and harvesting. Develop and implement strategic operational plans to meet production targets and quality standards. Optimize resource allocation, including labor, water, and materials, to ensure cost-effectiveness. Lead, train, and motivate a team of horticultural technicians and workers. Implement and enforce strict quality control measures throughout the production cycle. Maintain detailed records of crop performance, inputs, and yields. Research and introduce innovative horticultural techniques and technologies. Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations. Collaborate with sales and marketing teams to align production with market demands. Manage relationships with suppliers and external service providers.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Horticulture, Agriculture, Plant Science, or a related field. A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in horticultural management. Proven experience in managing greenhouse or open-field crop production. Strong understanding of plant physiology, soil science, and pest/disease management. Demonstrated leadership and team management skills. Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Proficiency in using horticultural management software and data analysis. Knowledge of the agricultural landscape in the George area and the Western Cape . Experience with irrigation systems and nutrient management. Valid driver's license and ability to conduct site visits.

Benefits

This role comes with a competitive annual salary of R480,000, along with performance-based incentives. Our client provides comprehensive medical aid, including hospital cover and wellness programs. A retirement annuity fund is available, with significant employer contributions. Opportunities for ongoing professional development, including workshops and conferences, are provided. The position includes 20 days of annual leave, sick leave benefits, and a travel allowance for site inspections and meetings. Relocation assistance may be considered for the successful candidate. Join a supportive team environment focused on quality and growth in the beautiful George region.