Plantation Manager - Forestry Operations

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybride; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 800 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive salary package

Performance-based incentive schemes

Medical aid and retirement fund

Company vehicle and fuel allowance

Generous annual leave

Professional development and forestry/

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Plantation Manager for operations near Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. The role leads forestry plantations, overseeing silviculture, harvesting and planning to ensure long-term health and productivity while upholding safety and environmental standards.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Forestry or a related field with 6+ years in plantation management, strong leadership, budgeting, and GIS/forest inventory proficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Forest Management, Environmental Science, or related field.
• 6+ years of progressive plantation management experience.
• Knowledge of silviculture, forest mensuration, and harvesting techniques.
• Experience managing operational teams and budgets.
• Strong understanding of environmental regulations and sustainable forestry.
• Familiarity with the Eastern Cape forestry context is advantageous.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in GIS and forest inventory systems.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to travel within plantations.

Responsabilités

• Develop and execute annual and long-term forest management plans.
• Oversee all silvicultural activities for optimal tree growth and health.
• Manage harvesting operations, logistics, and timber transport.
• Implement and monitor environmental management plans and compliance.
• Lead forestry teams with a culture of safety and productivity.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and optimize resource use.
• Maintain records of plantation activities, growth measurements, and inventory.
• Conduct site inspections to identify risks and opportunities.
• Ensure health and safety regulations are followed and enforced.
• Liaise with government agencies, communities, and industry partners.
• Address pests, diseases, and invasive species in plantations.

Connaissances

Leadership

Team management

Strategic planning

Silviculture

Budgeting

Regulatory compliance

GIS

Forest inventories

Formation

Bachelor's degree in Forestry / related field

Outils

GIS software

Forest inventory systems

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the Agriculture & Forestry industry with significant plantation holdings, is seeking an experienced Plantation Manager for their operations near Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. This role demands a strategic leader responsible for the efficient and sustainable management of forestry plantations, encompassing silviculture, harvesting, and resource planning. You will ensure the long‑term health and productivity of the forest estate, manage operational teams, and uphold stringent environmental and safety standards. This is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to contribute to responsible forestry practices in the Eastern Cape, combining hands‑on management with strategic oversight. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in forestry management and a commitment to sustainable resource utilization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute annual and long‑term forest management plans, including planting, thinning, and harvesting schedules.
• Oversee all silvicultural activities, ensuring optimal tree growth and health.
• Manage harvesting operations, coordinating logistics, contractors, and timber transport.
• Implement and monitor environmental management plans, ensuring compliance with regulations and certifications.
• Supervise and lead a team of forestry workers and supervisors, fostering a culture of safety and productivity.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and ensure efficient resource utilization.
• Maintain detailed records of plantation activities, growth measurements, and inventory.
• Conduct regular site inspections and assessments to identify risks and opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and promote a safe working environment.
• Liaise with stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and industry partners.
• Implement measures to combat pests, diseases, and invasive species within the plantations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Forest Management, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in plantation management or forestry operations.
• Demonstrated knowledge of silviculture, forest mensuration, and harvesting techniques.
• Experience in managing operational teams and budgets effectively.
• Strong understanding of environmental regulations and sustainable forestry practices.
• Familiarity with the forestry sector in the Eastern Cape region is advantageous.
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency in relevant software, including GIS and forest inventory systems.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel regularery within the plantation areas.
• Commitment to upholding high standards of health, safety, and environmental stewardship.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Performance‑based incentive schemes.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Company vehicle and fuel allowance for operational travel.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Opportunities for professional development and advanced forestry training.
• A challenging and rewarding role within a leading forestry company.
• Contribution to sustainable resource management in the Port Elizabeth area.
• Supportive management and a dedicated team environment.
• Potential for career advancement within the organization.