Livestock Production Manager

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 450,000 - 750,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Livestock Production Manager to oversee large-scale livestock operations near Bloemfontein, Free State. You will lead a skilled team, drive breeding programs, ensure animal welfare, and manage budgets in a dynamic agricultural environment.

The role emphasizes health management, nutrition, and strategic development of the livestock division within South Africa’s heartland of agriculture. Relocation to the Bloemfontein area is expected for the right candidate.

Qualifications

• Degree in Animal Science, Agricultural Science, Veterinary Tech, or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on experience with commercial livestock operations.
• Strong knowledge of nutrition, genetics, reproduction, and disease management.
• Proven ability to lead and manage a team.
• Excellent record-keeping and data analysis skills.
• Understanding of farm business management principles and budgeting.
• Willingness to relocate to the Bloemfontein area.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of daily livestock operations, including feeding, watering, health monitoring, and sanitation.
• Implement and manage breeding programs to optimize reproductive efficiency and genetic improvement.
• Monitor animal health closely, coordinating with veterinarians for treatment and preventative care plans.
• Manage feed procurement, storage, and distribution, ensuring optimal nutrition for different animal life stages.
• Supervise and train farm staff, ensuring adherence to best practices in animal welfare and biosecurity.
• Maintain accurate records of animal health, breeding, production, and inventory.
• Develop and manage the livestock division's budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant animal welfare regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Oversee the management of grazing lands or confinement facilities.
• Contribute to strategic planning for the expansion and improvement of livestock operations.

Skills

Team leadership

Record-keeping

Data analysis

Budgeting

Education

Degree in Animal Science/Agricultural Science/Veterinary Technology

Tools

Livestock management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading diversified agricultural producer, is seeking an experienced and dedicated Livestock Production Manager to oversee their significant livestock operations near Bloemfontein, Free State . This role is essential for managing the health, welfare, and productivity of a large herd/flock, ensuring efficient breeding programs, feeding regimes, and overall herd/flock management. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in animal science and extensive practical experience in large-scale livestock operations. You will lead a skilled team, implement best practices in animal husbandry, and contribute to the strategic development of the livestock division. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to manage substantial operations in the heart of South Africa's agricultural landscape in the Free State province.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of daily livestock operations, including feeding, watering, health monitoring, and sanitation.
• Implement and manage breeding programs to optimize reproductive efficiency and genetic improvement.
• Monitor animal health closely, coordinating with veterinarians for treatment and preventative care plans.
• Manage feed procurement, storage, and distribution, ensuring optimal nutrition for different animal life stages.
• Supervise and train farm staff, ensuring adherence to best practices in animal welfare and biosecurity.
• Maintain accurate records of animal health, breeding, production, and inventory.
• Develop and manage the livestock division's budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and profitability.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant animal welfare regulations, safety standards, and environmental policies.
• Oversee the management of grazing lands or confinement facilities.
• Contribute to strategic planning for the expansion and improvement of livestock operations.

Requirements

• Degree in Animal Science, Agricultural Science, Veterinary Technology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in managing commercial livestock operations (e.g., cattle, sheep, pigs).
• Strong knowledge of animal nutrition, genetics, reproduction, and disease management.
• Proven ability to lead and manage a team effectively.
• Excellent record-keeping and data analysis skills.
• Understanding of farm business management principles and budgeting.
• Commitment to high standards of animal welfare and biosecurity.
• Proficiency in relevant livestock management software is an advantage.
• Ability to work effectively in a rural setting and adaptable to seasonal demands.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and be based in or willing to relocate to the Bloemfontein area.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, commensurate with your experience and qualifications, along with performance-based bonuses. Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and life insurance. This role provides opportunities for professional development, including specialized training in livestock management and attendance at industry conferences. You will be working in a key agricultural region of South Africa, contributing to a respected company known for its commitment to quality and sustainability. The work environment is dynamic and supportive, with potential for career advancement. We offer generous annual leave and potential support for relocation assistance to the Free State .