PACKHOUSE MANAGER (STONE FRUIT)

CA Support; Ladismith; On-site; ZAR 350 000 - 450 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading agricultural firm in South Africa is seeking an experienced Packhouse Manager to oversee stone fruit operations. The role involves managing daily operations, ensuring compliance with agricultural standards, and leading a team through the harvest and packaging season. Candidates should have at least 5 years of management experience and strong leadership skills. This position offers an opportunity to work in an inspiring environment at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years’ packhouse management experience (stone fruit preferred).
• Expertise in South African agricultural compliance and export protocols.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily packhouse operations from November to March.
• Manage sorting, grading, packing, and cold chain processes.
• Recruit, train, and supervise seasonal staff.

Skills

Packhouse management

Team leadership

Organizational skills

Adaptability to seasonal demands

Computer literacy

Job description

Our client, nestled at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains in the beautiful Hoeko Valley, is seeking a proactive and detail-driven Packhouse Manager to lead their stone fruit operations through the harvest and packaging season.

They produce premium apricots and plums for the export market and pride themselves on quality, compliance and teamwork.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee daily packhouse operations from November (Apricots) to March (Plums)
• Manage all sorting, grading, packing, and cold chain processes to maintain product integrity and meet production targets.
• Ensure operational efficiency through time and production management, scheduling, and optimal pack-out planning.
• Manage cold room facilities and logistics to support export readiness.

• Recruit, train, and supervise seasonal staff to meet productivity and quality goals.
• Motivate and manage teams to foster performance, cohesion, and accountability.
• Monitor staff productivity and ensure adherence to operational standards.
• Ensure full compliance with food safety, traceability, and export standards.
• Uphold high standards of hygiene, quality control, and safety throughout the facility.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation for audits and operational reviews.
• Liaise with farm managers, logistics teams, exporters, and marketing agencies to ensure smooth operations.
• Communicate effectively with production units and stakeholders to support successful outcomes.
• Execute timely and accurate administrative duties, including reporting and documentation.
• Apply strong organizational and planning skills to manage seasonal peaks and resource allocation.

REQUIREMENTS

• Minimum 5 years’ packhouse management experience (stone fruit preferred)
• Expertise in South African agricultural compliance and export protocols - Includes Global GAP, SIZA, Health & Safety standards etc.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Adaptability to seasonal demands and long hours - Resilience during high‑pressure harvest and packaging periods.
• Computer literacy and proficiency in packhouse software and documentation systems.
• Valid driver's license.