Operations Director - Agribusiness

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 2,500,000 - 4,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid and retirement fund

Company vehicle and fuel allowance

Housing assistance potential

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Director to oversee farming, processing, and distribution in the Nelspruit region. You will drive productivity, implement strategic plans, and lead senior teams across farming, processing, and logistics to deliver on key business goals.

The role demands a deep understanding of agribusiness operations, strong leadership, and a commitment to innovation and excellence.

Qualifications

• 8+ years in operations management within the agribusiness sector.
• Experience managing large-scale crop production or livestock operations.
• Strong leadership and strategic planning abilities.
• Proven cost control and operational efficiency track record.
• Knowledge of ERP and agricultural software.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all operational aspects of the agribusiness, including cultivation, harvesting, processing, and distribution.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to enhance yield, quality, and profitability.
• Oversee supply chain management, ensuring efficient procurement of inputs and timely delivery of products.
• Ensure adherence to agricultural best practices, quality standards, and sustainability principles.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and optimize resource allocation.
• Lead and develop a diverse team of farm managers, processing supervisors, and staff.
• Implement and monitor KPIs to track performance and drive improvement.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Drive innovation in farming techniques, processing technologies, and logistics.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to integrate new agricultural advancements.

Skills

Operations management

Leadership

Strategic planning

Supply chain logistics

Problem solving

Analytical thinking

Cost control

Sustainability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Science / Agronomy / Operations Management / Business Administration

Master's degree (advantageous)

Tools

ERP systems

Agricultural management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent and expanding agribusiness group, is seeking a highly experienced Operations Director to oversee and optimize their extensive farming, processing, and distribution operations in the Nelspruit, Mpumalanga region. This senior leadership role demands a deep understanding of agricultural production, supply chain management, quality control, and operational efficiency. You will be responsible for driving productivity, ensuring sustainability, managing complex logistics, leading large teams, and achieving strategic business objectives. The ideal candidate will possess a strong track record in agribusiness operations, exceptional leadership skills, and a commitment to innovation and excellence. This is a crucial opportunity to shape the operational future of a key player in the agricultural sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all operational aspects of the agribusiness, including cultivation, harvesting, processing, and distribution.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to enhance yield, quality, and profitability.
• Oversee supply chain management, ensuring efficient procurement of inputs and timely delivery of products.
• Ensure strict adherence to agricultural best practices, quality standards, and sustainability principles.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and optimize resource allocation.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of farm managers, processing supervisors, and operational staff.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track operational performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental, safety, and regulatory standards.
• Drive innovation in farming techniques, processing technologies, and logistical solutions.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to integrate new agricultural advancements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Science, Agronomy, Operations Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in operations management within the agribusiness sector.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale agricultural operations, including crop production or livestock management.
• Strong understanding of supply chain logistics within the agricultural industry.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and strategic planning abilities.
• Demonstrated success in driving operational efficiency and cost control.
• Knowledge of sustainable farming practices and relevant regulatory frameworks.
• Proficiency in agricultural management software and ERP systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive and comprehensive compensation package:

• Highly competitive annual salary of R.
• Performance-based bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development and participation in agricultural conferences.
• Generous annual leave and public holidays.
• A dynamic and rewarding work environment within the agricultural sector.
• Potential for housing assistance or benefits.