Senior Agricultural Estate Manager

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund contribution

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance if applicable

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Agricultural Estate Manager for the Midrand, Gauteng region. You will lead strategic farming operations across extensive lands, driving productivity and sustainability while guiding a diverse team of agricultural professionals.

You will implement innovative farming techniques, manage resources, and ensure profitability aligned with regulatory and environmental standards. Strong leadership and financial acumen are essential.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• 8–10 years of progressive experience in agricultural management, with large-scale estate focus.
• Proven track record in crop production and/or livestock operations.
• In-depth knowledge of modern agricultural techniques, equipment, and best practices.
• Strong understanding of financial management, budgeting, and cost control in agriculture.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in agricultural software and data analysis tools.
• Experience with sustainable and organic farming methods is desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in field and office environments.
• Resilience and problem-solving skills for SA agriculture.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement agricultural strategies to maximise yields and production.
• Oversee daily farm operations including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and pest control.
• Manage budgets, costs, and resource allocation (water, fertilizer, labour).
• Supervise, train, and motivate farm staff in a safe, productive environment.
• Monitor market trends and adapt production plans to meet demand and profitability.
• Enforce sustainable farming practices for environmental compliance and land viability.
• Maintain detailed records of crops, livestock, expenses, and output.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations and safety standards.
• Collaborate with agronomists, veterinarians, and specialists to improve performance.
• Manage maintenance and repair of farm machinery and equipment.

Skills

Leadership

Team Management

Budgeting

Data Analysis

Communication

Agricultural Software

Problem-Solving

Strategic Planning

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Agriculture/Agricultural Science

Tools

Farm Management Software

GIS (basic)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the agricultural sector, is seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Senior Agricultural Estate Manager to oversee operations in the vibrant region of Midrand, Gauteng. This pivotal role involves the strategic planning, execution, and optimisation of all farming activities across expansive agricultural lands. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving productivity, ensuring sustainable practices, and managing a diverse team of agricultural professionals. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of a significant agricultural enterprise, contributing to its growth and profitability while maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence and environmental stewardship. You will be at the forefront of implementing innovative farming techniques and managing resources efficiently to meet market demands and achieve long-term business objectives. The role requires a deep understanding of the agricultural landscape in Gauteng and a proactive approach to challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive agricultural strategies to maximise crop yields and livestock production.
• Oversee daily farm operations, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and pest/disease management.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and ensure efficient allocation of resources, including water, fertilizer, and labour.
• Supervise, train, and motivate farm staff, fostering a safe and productive work environment.
• Monitor market trends and adapt production plans to meet demand and optimise profitability.
• Implement and enforce sustainable farming practices to ensure environmental compliance and long-term land viability.
• Maintain detailed records of crops, livestock, expenses, and production output.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations and safety standards.
• Collaborate with agronomists, veterinarians, and other specialists to improve farm performance.
• Manage the maintenance and repair of farm machinery and equipment.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agricultural Science, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in agricultural management, with a strong focus on large-scale estate management.
• Proven track record of successfully managing crop production and/or livestock operations.
• In-depth knowledge of modern agricultural techniques, equipment, and best practices.
• Strong understanding of financial management, budgeting, and cost control within an agricultural context.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in agricultural software and data analysis tools.
• Experience with sustainable and organic farming methods is highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in both field and office environments.
• Resilience and problem-solving skills to handle the unpredictable nature of agriculture in South Africa.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This includes a generous annual salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund contribution, and opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading agricultural organisation.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for exceptional candidates.
• You will have access to state-of-the-art farming technology and the chance to lead impactful projects that contribute to food security and agricultural innovation in Gauteng.