Project Manager - Agricultural Value Chain Development

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Mahikeng, North West, seeks a Project Manager to lead agricultural value chain development initiatives that boost productivity, market access, and profitability for local farmers and agribusinesses.

The role requires 6+ years in project management with a focus on agriculture or supply chain, strong stakeholder skills, and a track record of delivering on time within a hybrid work environment.

Qualifications

• Experience leading agriculture or agribusiness projects (min 6 years).
• Strong understanding of agricultural value chains and market dynamics.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and timelines.
• Experience with hybrid work models in rural contexts.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, execution, and completion of value chain development projects.
• Develop project plans with scope, objectives, budgets, and timelines.
• Engage stakeholders including farmers, cooperatives, buyers and government entities.
• Oversee activities improving production, post-harvest handling, and market access.
• Identify and mitigate project risks and issues.
• Ensure alignment with agricultural policies and sustainable development goals.
• Monitor progress with KPIs and report regularly.
• Provide training to farmers and agribusinesses.
• Manage project budgets and resources.
• Build strong project stakeholder relationships.

Skills

Project leadership

Stakeholder management

Communication

Data analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Economics, or related field

Tools

MS Project

Excel

Power BI

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading organization focused on agricultural development and economic growth, is seeking a dedicated Project Manager to lead initiatives aimed at strengthening agricultural value chains in the Mahikeng, North West province. This role is critical for enhancing productivity, market access, and profitability for local farmers and agribusinesses. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in project management, with specific experience in agriculture, agribusiness development, or supply chain management. You will be responsible for managing projects that support crop production, post-harvest management, market linkage, and value addition. We are looking for a proactive leader with excellent stakeholder management skills, capable of working effectively with farmers' cooperatives, government agencies, private sector partners, and development organizations. This position is based in Mahikeng, North West , and offers the chance to drive significant positive economic impact in the region. A hybrid work arrangement will ensure effective coordination between planning activities and field operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the planning, execution, and completion of agricultural value chain development projects.
• Develop comprehensive project plans, defining scope, objectives, deliverables, budgets, and timelines.
• Identify and engage key stakeholders, including farmers, cooperatives, buyers, and government entities.
• Oversee project activities related to improving agricultural production, post-harvest handling, and market access.
• Manage project risks and issues, developing and implementing mitigation strategies.
• Ensure projects align with national agricultural policies and sustainable development goals.
• Monitor project progress, collect data on key performance indicators, and prepare regular reports.
• Facilitate training and capacity-building activities for farmers and agribusinesses.
• Manage project budgets and ensure efficient use of resources.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with all project stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Economics, Project Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in project management, with a focus on agricultural development, agribusiness, or supply chain projects.
• Proven track record of managing projects involving smallholder farmers or agricultural enterprises.
• Strong understanding of agricultural value chains, market dynamics, and development economics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in project management software and data analysis tools.
• Experience working in the North West province or similar rural agricultural contexts is advantageous.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model, balancing remote planning with necessary field engagement.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and rural economic development.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package and benefits, including medical aid and opportunities for professional development. This role provides a significant opportunity to contribute to the economic prosperity of the North West province and its agricultural sector. You will work within a dynamic and mission-driven organization. The hybrid work model offers flexibility, supporting effective project delivery within the region. Join a team dedicated to fostering growth and sustainability in agriculture.