Senior Farm Manager - Mixed Farming Operations

Placements24; East London; On-site; ZAR 950,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Farm Manager in East London, Eastern Cape to lead mixed farming operations spanning crops and livestock. You will set strategic plans, manage daily activities, and drive financial performance while guiding a diverse team of farm staff.

The role requires long outdoor hours and a results-driven approach. The successful candidate will have 7–10 years of progressive farm management experience, strong leadership and comprehensive knowledge of crop production and animal

Qualifications

• Degree or Diploma in Agriculture, Agronomy, Animal Science, or related field.
• 7–10 years of progressive farm management experience with mixed farming.
• Proven expertise in crop production and animal husbandry for the region.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Budget management and financial performance tracking.
• Knowledge of sustainable farming practices and environmental regs.
• Ability to operate farm machinery and maintenance understanding.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and farm management software.
• Physically fit for outdoor work; valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement annual plans for crops and livestock.
• Oversee crop production activities from land prep to harvest.
• Manage livestock health, breeding, nutrition, and welfare.
• Lead farm staff and ensure productivity and safety.
• Ensure efficient use of machinery, water, and inputs.
• Prepare and monitor the farm budget and costs.
• Enforce health, safety, and environmental protocols.
• Maintain detailed production and financial records.
• Ensure compliance with regulations and market requirements.
• Collaborate with suppliers and buyers to ensure operations.
• Identify and implement innovative farming technologies.
• Foster a positive, productive team culture.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Record-keeping

Problem-solving

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

Degree or Diploma in Agriculture/Agronomy/Animal Science

Tools

Farm management software

GPS/Precision agriculture

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a diversified agricultural group, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Farm Manager to lead and manage their mixed farming operations in East London, Eastern Cape . This role encompasses the oversight of both crop production (including grains and potential cash crops) and livestock management, requiring a broad understanding of agricultural principles and practices. You will be responsible for the strategic planning, daily execution, and financial performance of the farm. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record in managing complex agricultural operations, excellent leadership capabilities, and a deep knowledge of crop husbandry, animal health, and sustainable farming techniques. You will manage a diverse team of farm staff, ensuring productivity, safety, and compliance with all relevant regulations. This position demands strong decision-making skills, effective resource management, and a commitment to operational excellence. You will work closely with the corporate management team to set farm objectives, budgets, and implement innovative strategies for growth and efficiency. This is a key leadership role offering the opportunity to make a significant impact on a dynamic agricultural enterprise in a key region. Your ability to integrate different farming systems will be crucial.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive annual plans for crop cultivation and livestock management.
• Oversee all aspects of crop production, including land preparation, planting, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting.
• Manage livestock operations, ensuring optimal animal health, breeding programs, nutrition, and welfare.
• Supervise and direct the daily activities of farm staff, including foremen and labourers, ensuring productivity and adherence to standards.
• Ensure efficient utilization of farm resources, including machinery, equipment, water, and inputs.
• Develop and manage the farm's annual budget, monitoring financial performance and controlling costs.
• Implement and enforce strict health, safety, and environmental protocols across all operations.
• Maintain detailed records of farm activities, including production data, financial transactions, and regulatory compliance.
• Ensure compliance with all agricultural regulations, quality standards, and market requirements.
• Collaborate with suppliers, service providers, and buyers to ensure smooth operations and market access.
• Identify and implement innovative farming technologies and practices to improve efficiency and sustainability.
• Foster a positive and productive work culture among the farm team.

Requirements

• Degree or Diploma in Agriculture, Agronomy, Animal Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in farm management, with significant exposure to mixed farming systems (crops and livestock).
• Proven expertise in crop production and animal husbandry specific to the region.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and financial performance.
• Solid understanding of farm machinery operation and maintenance.
• Knowledge of sustainable agricultural practices and environmental regulations.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Proficiency in record-keeping and farm management software.
• Must be physically fit and able to work in demanding outdoor conditions.
• A valid driver's license is essential.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with extensive experience and the scope of responsibilities, including performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits are provided.
• Depending on circumstances, on-site accommodation or a housing allowance may be offered.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, further training, and advancement within the organization are available.
• You will be part of a reputable and growing agricultural group making a substantial contribution to the sector in the Eastern Cape near East London .
• This role offers a chance to manage diverse agricultural operations and drive strategic growth.