OPERATIONS MANAGER – TABLE GRAPES

Farm Manager SA; Pofadder; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

Farm Manager SA located in Northern Cape, South Africa, is seeking an experienced individual to manage table grape production operations. The successful candidate will have at least 15 years of hands-on experience and the ability to oversee daily operations, technical management, and business administration.

The role includes planning and executing production programs, managing staff, and ensuring compliance with food safety certifications. Strong leadership, financial management, and operational skills are essential for maintaining production quality and efficiency.

Qualifications

• At least 15 years of practical experience in table grape production.
• Thorough knowledge of modern production practices and management processes.
• Strong technical knowledge of best practices per cultivar.

Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of daily farm operations and technical management.
• Plan and execute best practice production programs for quality products.
• Strict oversight of automated irrigation systems and compliance protocols.
• Manage large teams of staff and handle labor relations efficiently.
• Hold full financial accountability for operational budgets.

Job description

Minimum Requirements

• At least 15 years of practical experience in table grape production
• Thorough knowledge of modern production practices, systems, and management processes
• The ability to assume responsibility for the complete operational management of the unit
• Excellent human relations, leadership, and communication skills
• Experience in budget control and salary administration
• Strong technical knowledge of best practices per cultivar
• Good administrative and computer skills

Responsibilities Include but are Not Limited to

• Take full ownership of daily farm operations, technical management, and business administration.
• Plan and execute best practice production programs and protocols – including pruning, thinning, production management, and harvesting – to ensure top-quality product for their international markets
• Strict technical oversight of automated irrigation systems, soil fertilization, and chemical spraying protocols to guarantee total compliance with global Maximum Residue Limits (MRL’s) and GlobalG.A.P. food safety certifications.
• Being field agronomy, the successful candidate will manage large teams of permanent staff and seasonal staff, handle labour relations, and oversee payroll and salary administration.
• Management of the packhouse and coldrooms.
• Hold full financial accountability for operational budgets, management of cost chain, maintain farming infrastructure, and manage high-stakes harvest logistics to ensure cold-chain integrity from the vineyard straight into export containers.