Senior Agricultural Operations Manager

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development opportunities

Retirement savings plan

Company vehicle

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Senior Agricultural Operations Manager to oversee operations across farming units in the Johannesburg region, ensuring sustainable production of crops and livestock while meeting safety and environmental standards.

The role requires deep knowledge of farming techniques, supply chain management, and strong leadership to guide farm managers and workers, drive efficiency, and implement innovative farming technologies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agribusiness, or related field.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in agricultural management.
• In-depth knowledge of crop science, soil management, and modern farming techniques.
• Strong understanding of livestock management principles.
• Experience with financial management, budgeting, and cost analysis in agriculture.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills for managing diverse teams.
• Proficiency in agricultural software and data analysis tools.
• Experience with sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship is highly desirable.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel within the Johannesburg region and surrounding areas.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to maximize yield and profitability.
• Oversee all aspects of farm management, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and pest control.
• Manage livestock health, breeding programs, and overall welfare.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations, environmental policies, and safety protocols.
• Manage the agricultural budget, including resource allocation and cost control measures.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of farm managers and agricultural workers, fostering a culture of excellence and safety.
• Monitor market trends and advise on crop selection and production strategies.
• Maintain and improve irrigation systems and farm infrastructure.
• Coordinate with suppliers, distributors, and other stakeholders in the agricultural supply chain.
• Implement and manage advanced farming technologies and data analysis for decision-making.

Skills

Leadership

Financial management

Data analysis

Strategic planning

Communication

Problem-solving

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Agriculture/Agronomy/Agribusiness

Tools

Agricultural software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the South African agricultural sector, is seeking a highly experienced and driven Senior Agricultural Operations Manager to oversee and optimize operations across multiple farming units in the Johannesburg region. This pivotal role is responsible for ensuring the efficient and sustainable production of high-quality crops and livestock, while adhering to strict environmental and safety standards. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of modern agricultural techniques, supply chain management, and team leadership. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on a dynamic and growing enterprise. We are committed to fostering a workplace that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to maximize yield and profitability.
• Oversee all aspects of farm management, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and pest control.
• Manage livestock health, breeding programs, and overall welfare.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations, environmental policies, and safety protocols.
• Manage the agricultural budget, including resource allocation and cost control measures.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of farm managers and agricultural workers, fostering a culture of excellence and safety.
• Monitor market trends and advise on crop selection and production strategies.
• Maintain and improve irrigation systems and farm infrastructure.
• Coordinate with suppliers, distributors, and other stakeholders in the agricultural supply chain.
• Implement and manage advanced farming technologies and data analysis for decision-making.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Agribusiness, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in agricultural management, with a proven track record of success.
• In-depth knowledge of crop science, soil management, and modern farming techniques.
• Strong understanding of livestock management principles.
• Demonstrated experience in financial management, budgeting, and cost analysis within an agricultural context.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage diverse teams.
• Proficiency in agricultural software and data analysis tools.
• Experience with sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship is highly desirable.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the Johannesburg region and surrounding areas.
• Problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to operational challenges.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience, including performance-based bonuses.
• Employees are provided with comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• We offer a generous paid time off policy, encompassing annual leave, sick days, and public holidays.
• Professional development opportunities, including workshops and training programs, are readily available to support career growth.
• A retirement savings plan with company contributions is also part of the compensation package.
• Employees will have access to company vehicles for business-related travel.
• The company culture encourages work-life balance and promotes a supportive and inclusive work environment.