Senior Farm Operations Manager

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development opportunities

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24is seeking a Senior Farm Operations Manager in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal to oversee and optimize farming activities across crops and livestock. This hands-on role requires deep agricultural knowledge, financial acumen, and a track record of leading teams to high productivity.

You will develop strategic plans, manage budgets, ensure safety and environmental compliance, and drive sustainable farming practices while maintaining strong supplier relationships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, or related field.
• 7+ years progressive farm management experience; minimum 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of crop science, soil management, irrigation, pest/disease control.
• Experience with livestock management is highly desirable.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and financial planning tools.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to achieve farm production goals.
• Supervise day-to-day farming activities including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and pest control.
• Oversee livestock health, welfare and productivity.
• Manage farm budgets, control expenses, and ensure profitability.
• Lead, train, and motivate a team of farm workers and supervisors.
• Enforce health, safety, and environmental regulations on the farm.
• Monitor crop yields and quality; implement corrective measures as needed.
• Maintain farm equipment and infrastructure; ensure optimal working condition.
• Source and manage relationships with seed, fertilizer, and input suppliers.

Skills

Leadership experience

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Independent work

Decision making under pressure

Farming leadership

7+ years farming experience

3+ years senior leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture or Agronomy

Tools

Farm management software

Financial planning tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural enterprise, is seeking a highly experienced and results-oriented Senior Farm Operations Manager to oversee and optimize operations at their Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal facility. This pivotal role involves the strategic management of all farming activities, ensuring maximum productivity, efficiency, and adherence to the highest industry standards. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving innovation and sustainability across a diverse range of crops and livestock. This is a hands-on position that requires a deep understanding of agricultural science, modern farming techniques, and financial management. You will be working within a dynamic and supportive team environment, contributing to the growth and success of a respected agricultural organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to achieve farm production goals.
• Supervise and manage all day-to-day farming activities, including planting, cultivation, harvesting, and pest control.
• Oversee the management of livestock, ensuring their health, welfare, and optimal productivity.
• Manage farm budgets, control expenses, and ensure profitability.
• Lead, train, and motivate a team of farm workers and supervisors.
• Implement and enforce health, safety, and environmental regulations on the farm.
• Monitor crop yields and quality, implementing corrective measures as needed.
• Maintain and manage farm equipment and infrastructure, ensuring optimal working condition.
• Source and manage relationships with suppliers of seeds, fertilizers, and other farm inputs.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in farm management, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale agricultural operations.
• Strong knowledge of crop science, soil management, irrigation techniques, and pest/disease control.
• Experience with livestock management is highly desirable.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in farm management software and financial planning tools.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions under pressure.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel within the region as needed for operations in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience, including performance-based bonuses. You will have access to comprehensive medical aid, a generous provident fund, and ongoing professional development opportunities. This role provides a unique chance to shape the future of a significant agricultural operation and contribute to sustainable farming practices in the region. Join a company that values its employees and fosters a culture of growth and excellence.