Shift Manager, Ladismith

Mirna Butler Recruitment; Ladismith; On-site; ZAR 201,000 - 312,000; Full time

Job summary

Mirna Butler Recruitment is seeking a Shift Manager for a large-scale dairy farming operation in Ladismith, Western Cape. The role oversees daily shift operations and ensures efficient production, safety and high standards of animal care.

The successful candidate will lead by example, manage a diverse team, and adapt to changing farming practices while complying with regulations. This hands-on leadership role requires weekend shifts and a proactive approach.

Qualifications

• Matric or equivalent qualification.
• Fluent in Afrikaans and English.
• Experience in dairy farming or cattle management.
• Understanding of dairy farming business concepts, relevant laws of nature and financial practices.
• Ability to manage conflict constructively with a calm, practical mindset.
• Proven leadership experience with the ability to lead by example and develop team members.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organise, lead and control operations to meet departmental goals.
• Determine herd health and dietary requirements for healthy, productive animals.
• Ensure safety regulations are followed to minimise risk to workers and animals.
• Manage budgets and monitor expenditures for the department.
• Provide leadership by setting an example through hard work and commitment.
• Maintain records and inventory control to support operations.

Skills

Leadership experience

Conflict management

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Organisational skills

Team leadership

Maturity and emotional stability

Adaptability

Education

Matric

Tools

MS Word

MS Excel

MS Outlook

MS PowerPoint

Job description

Our client is seeking a Shift Manager to oversee daily shift operations, ensure efficient production processes and maintain high standards of productivity, safety and animal care. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated individual who thrives in a leadership role and is passionate about contributing to the successful operation of a large-scale dairy farming environment in Ladismith

Minimum requirements

• Matric

• Fluent in Afrikaans and English

• Proven experience in dairy farming or cattle management, with a strong practical understanding of cattle physiology, animal care and farming operations

• Sound understanding of dairy farming business concepts, relevant laws of nature and overall financial practices

• Ability to manage conflict constructively and approach challenges with a calm, practical and solution-focused mindset

• Proven leadership experience, with the ability to lead by example, delegate responsibilities, motivate employees and develop team members

• Computer literate in Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook and Microsoft PowerPoint

• Ability to adapt to changing operational requirements, technologies, regulations and farming practices

• Ability to work effectively in a hands‑on, fast‑paced farming environment and manage the demands of shift work

• Valid driver's license and own vehicle

• Willingness to work shifts, weekends and public holidays as required by the operational needs of the dairy farm

Skills required

• Strong maturity and emotional stability

• Ability to handle conflict constructively and approach challenges with a calm, practical and solution-focused mindset

• Strong communication and leadership skills

• Strong problem-solving skills

• Excellent organisational and time-management skills

• Strong understanding of productivity, safety, animal welfare and efficient dairy farming practices

Duties and responsibilities

• Manage the department through effective Planning, Organising, Leading and Control/Measuring (POLC) to ensure efficient operations and achievement of departmental objectives

• Determine herd health and dietary requirements to ensure animals remain healthy and productive

• Ensure that all safety regulations are adhered to at all times to minimise the risk of injury or death to workers or animals

• Conduct research on new farming techniques, equipment and practices that may improve efficiency or reduce costs

• Manage the finances of the department by preparing budgets and monitoring expenditures

• Provide leadership to employees by setting an example through hard work, dedication and commitment to the job

• Adhere to breeding and pasturing programmes based on best practices to ensure high-quality milk production

• Monitor the health of animals to detect illness or injury and take appropriate action to prevent and/or remedy the situation

• Recommend changes to equipment, procedures or systems to ensure maximum efficiency and productivity

• Work effectively with both skilled and unskilled workers as a Team Leader, particularly when tasks or operational requirements become more complex

• Maintain the necessary order, discipline and self-management required to perform duties effectively

• Manage administration requirements, including record keeping, inventory control, input costs and other relevant departmental records

Remuneration

Negotiable, depending on experience

Application Deadline

Applications close 28 August 2026