Senior Farm Operations Manager - Large Scale Horticulture

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

Benefits offered by this job

Salary incentives

Hybrid work arrangement

Medical insurance

Professional growth

Access to farming technology

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Farm Operations Manager to oversee horticultural operations in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will lead crop planning, resource allocation, and a diverse team to ensure efficient, profitable farm performance.

The role requires deep knowledge of crop management, irrigation, soil science, pest control, and sustainable farming practices, with a track record of improving productivity and compliance in large-scale settings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Farm Management, or a related field.
• Master’s degree is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategic operational plans to achieve farm production targets and financial goals.
• Manage crop cultivation including planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting.
• Oversee procurement and efficient utilization of seeds, fertilizers, equipment, and labor.
• Lead, train, and mentor farm workers, supervisors, and technical staff.
• Implement health, safety, and environmental protocols across the farm operations.
• Monitor farm performance using key metrics and drive continuous improvement.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and ensure compliance with regulations and standards.
• Collaborate with supply chain partners, distributors, and research institutions.
• Maintain detailed records of farm activities, production outputs, and financial transactions.
• Drive innovation and adopt new technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Data management

Communication

Problem solving

Crop management

Irrigation systems

Soil science

Pest/disease control

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture/Horticulture/Farm Management

Master’s degree (advantage)

Tools

Agricultural software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and results-driven Senior Farm Operations Manager to oversee their extensive horticultural operations in Tembisa, Gauteng . This critical role demands a strategic leader capable of managing all facets of large-scale farming, from crop planning and resource allocation to team leadership and financial oversight. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of modern agricultural techniques, a commitment to sustainable practices, and a proven track record of maximizing productivity and profitability. You will be responsible for ensuring the efficient and effective day-to-day running of the farm, implementing best practices, and driving continuous improvement across all operational areas. This position offers a significant opportunity to shape the future of a major agricultural enterprise in the region, working with advanced technologies and a dedicated team.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to achieve farm production targets and financial goals.
• Manage all aspects of crop cultivation, including planting, irrigation, fertilization, pest control, and harvesting.
• Oversee the procurement and efficient utilization of farm resources, including seeds, fertilizers, equipment, and labor.
• Lead, train, and mentor a diverse team of farm workers, supervisors, and technical staff.
• Implement and enforce health, safety, and environmental protocols across the farm operations.
• Monitor farm performance using key metrics, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and industry standards.
• Collaborate with supply chain partners, distributors, and research institutions to ensure seamless operations and market access.
• Maintain detailed records of all farm activities, production outputs, and financial transactions.
• Drive innovation and adopt new technologies to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Horticulture, Farm Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is a plus.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in managing large-scale agricultural operations, with a strong emphasis on horticulture.
• Proven expertise in crop management, irrigation systems, soil science, and pest/disease control.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities with experience in managing and motivating teams.
• Strong financial acumen, including budgeting, cost control, and performance analysis.
• Excellent understanding of farm machinery, equipment, and maintenance.
• Proficiency in agricultural software and data management systems.
• A commitment to sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• An attractive salary package with performance-based incentives.
• Hybrid work arrangement allowing for flexibility between on-site and remote work.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Access to modern farming technologies and resources.
• Relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate.