Operational Manager – Citrus

Frank Consult; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Leadership role

Impactful position in agriculture

Job summary

Frank Consult is seeking an experienced Operational Manager – Production to lead a citrus estate in Botswana. This role is crucial for driving production growth and ensuring sustainable practices within a leading agricultural business.

The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in agricultural management and strong leadership skills. A competitive salary package is offered for this pivotal position.*

Qualifications

• 10 to 15 years’ experience in agricultural production management.
• Strong leadership and team management ability.
• Proven experience in strategic planning and operational management.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the long-term citrus production strategy.
• Lead varietal, rootstock, orchard replacement and expansion planning.
• Manage irrigation and fertigation strategies.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Analytical skills

Budgeting

Communication

Project management

Job description

Are you ready to play a key role in shaping the future of citrus production within a growing agricultural business?

Our client, a well-established agricultural operation with a strong focus on sustainable farming and export excellence, is seeking an experienced Operational Manager – Production to lead their estate in the Central District of Botswana.

This is an excellent opportunity for a senior agricultural professional to drive production growth, optimise operations and contribute to a business committed to innovation, quality and long-term success.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the long-term citrus production strategy.
• Lead varietal, rootstock, orchard replacement and expansion planning.
• Align production activities with the company’s strategic and commercial objectives.
• Oversee orchard production and monitor yield performance across the estate.
• Manage irrigation and fertigation strategies, scheduling and efficiency.
• Lead crop protection and integrated pest management programmes.
• Manage labour, resources and operational infrastructure.
• Ensure compliance with food safety standards and export requirements.
• Lead, mentor and manage a team of Production Managers.
• Drive data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Identify and oversee capex projects to improve return on investment.
• Prepare and manage production budgets.
• Oversee crop forecasting, harvest planning and seasonal execution.
• Monitor operational costs and identify cost-saving opportunities.

Minimum Requirements

• 10 to 15 years’ experience in agricultural production management.
• Strong leadership and team management ability.
• Proven experience in strategic planning and operational management.
• Strong budgeting, reporting and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and project management skills.
• Experience in large-scale farming operations, particularly fruit production and exports.

Experience Required

• Citrus production and orchard management.
• Large-scale agricultural operations.
• Food safety standards and export protocols.

What’s on Offer

• A senior leadership role within a growing agricultural business.
• The opportunity to make meaningful strategic impact.
• A competitive and negotiable salary package.
• Exposure to a dynamic and progressive agricultural environment.

If you are an experienced agricultural leader with a passion for sustainable farming and operational excellence, we invite you to apply.