Direction jobs in South Africa

SUMMARY : Introduction :

A diversified agricultural group with large-scale egg production, poultry rearing units, crop farming operations, game farming, re-establish a cattle feedlot and commercial propertyholdings is seeking an experienced and decisive Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The businesses operate across multiple sites in Klerksdorp, Kroonstad and surrounding regions, supported by strong financial foundations and established operational systems. The CEO will provide strategic direction, ensure sustainable growth, oversee all operational units, establish business infrastructure, and uphold the group’s long-standing reputation within the South African poultry industry.

Job Purpose :

To lead the entire group operations, ensuring operational excellence, long-term profitability, and strategic growth. The CEO is responsible for the full oversight of all farms, production units, commercial properties, financial systems, staff structures, and expansion projects.

Reporting directly to the Board / Managing Director, the CEO will drive performance, manage senior leadership across all entities, and ensure that the group maintains its strong position as a leading producer in the industry.

POSITION INFO : REQUIREMENTS

Minimum education (essential) :

• National Senior Certificate
• Bachelor’s degree in , , Production Management, or similar (essential)
• Postgraduate qualification (MBA / MPM) will be an advantage

Minimum applicable experience (years) :

• 10 –15+ years senior management experience
• At least 5 years at executive level
• Poultry, agriculture, , or large-scale production experience in a related environment (strong advantage)

Required nature of experience :

• Executive leadership across multiple business units
• High-level operational and production management
• People leadership and management of senior teams
• Business expansion, capital planning, and project management
• Financial oversight, budgeting, cash flow, and reporting
• Supply chain, customer relations, and strategic negotiations
• Asset / facility / property management
• Risk management, compliance, and corporate governance

Skills and Knowledge (essential) :

• Strong strategic vision and the ability to execute long-term business plans
• Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills
• Deep understanding of agricultural production, preferably poultry
• Strong financial and commercial acumen
• Effective problem-solving and decision-making ability
• Ability to manage multiple entities with complex operational needs
• Exceptional organisational skills and a high level of accountability

Other :

• Proficient in Afrikaans and English
• Valid driver’s licence and own reliable transport
• Willingness to travel between farms and operational locations

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS, WEIGHTS AND OBJECTIVES

• Lead long-term strategic planning and business development.
• Identify opportunities for expansion, diversification, and operational improvements.
• Ensure the group maintains its strong market presence and industry reputation.
• Drive innovation in poultry production, farming operations, and business structures

• Oversee all egg production, pullet rearing units, farming operations, and related
• facilities.
• Ensure production targets and quality standards are achieved across all sites.
• Strengthen biosecurity, safety, and operational efficiency.
• Implement systems and technology to support continuous improvement.

• Lead and mentor all senior managers and administrative heads across the group.
• Ensure effective planning, staff structures, succession planning, and performance management.
• Build a strong, disciplined, and results-driven leadership culture.

• Maintain the group’s conservative and strong financial position.
• Ensure accurate financial controls, reporting, budgeting, and cost management.
• Oversee capital investments, cash flow planning, and asset utilisation.
• Uphold governance, compliance, and risk management standards.

• Oversee all commercial properties, hangers, farm infrastructure, equipment, and vehicles.
• Ensure effective maintenance, security, and asset optimisation.
• Lead major capital projects, including new buildings, packhouses, office expansions,
• and new production units.
• Manage future farming expansions and long-term infrastructure development.

Remuneration Offered: Market related