Operations Manager - Agricultural Services

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

provident fund

Career development

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Operations Manager to lead comprehensive farm operations in Upington, Northern Cape. You will drive efficiency, budgets, and resource allocation while overseeing a team of farm managers and staff.

The role requires experience in large-scale farming, strong governance, and a proactive approach to process improvements, safety, and regulatory compliance. A hybrid work setup is offered to balance on-site oversight with strategic planning.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in operations management within agriculture.
• Experience managing large-scale farming operations or significant agricultural supply chains.
• Strong understanding of crop cultivation, livestock management, and modern agri-technologies.
• Proven financial acumen: budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily agricultural operations including planting, harvesting, irrigation, and pest control.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs and boost productivity.
• Manage procurement and logistics to ensure timely input supply and product delivery.
• Lead budgeting, financial performance, and allocation of resources across departments.
• Direct and develop a team of farm managers, supervisors, and staff.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Supply chain

Budgeting

Data-driven decisions

Communication

Education

Degree in Agriculture

Tools

Farm management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the agricultural sector, is seeking a results-oriented Operations Manager to oversee their extensive operations in and around Upington, Northern Cape . This role demands a strategic thinker with a solid understanding of agricultural processes, supply chain management, and operational efficiency. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the smooth and profitable running of various farm-based activities, optimizing resource allocation, and driving continuous improvement across all operational areas. This is a crucial role for maintaining and enhancing our client's significant presence in the agricultural landscape of the Northern Cape , requiring a blend of on-site leadership and strategic planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize daily agricultural operations, including planting, harvesting, irrigation, and pest control.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and increase productivity.
• Oversee supply chain logistics, ensuring timely procurement of inputs and delivery of produce.
• Manage budgets, financial performance, and resource allocation for all operational departments.
• Lead and develop a team of farm managers, supervisors, and operational staff.
• Ensure compliance with all agricultural regulations, environmental standards, and safety protocols.
• Implement and monitor quality control measures for all agricultural products.
• Foster strong relationships with suppliers, service providers, and stakeholders.
• Identify opportunities for innovation and technological advancements in agricultural practices.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and operational audits.

Requirements

• A minimum of 6 years of experience in operations management, with a significant portion within the agricultural industry.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale farming operations or agricultural supply chains.
• Strong understanding of crop cultivation, livestock management, and modern agricultural technologies.
• Demonstrated ability in financial management, budgeting, and cost control.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in using agricultural management software and relevant IT systems.
• A degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make data-driven decisions.
• Must be willing to travel regularly within the Northern Cape region and occasionally to other company sites.
• Valid driver's license.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience, and excellent performance-based bonuses.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical aid and a provident fund.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a stable and reputable agricultural enterprise are significant.
• The role offers the chance to make a tangible impact on the productivity and sustainability of large-scale agricultural operations in the unique environment of Upington, Northern Cape . You will enjoy a hybrid work arrangement, balancing strategic office-based work with essential on-site operational oversight.