Manager Agriculture jobs in South Africa

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Financial Planning, Analysis & Strategic Management
  • Develop and manage annual budgets and forecasts for agricultural operations.
  • Conduct variance analysis between budgeted and actual performance, investigating root causes and recommending corrective actions.
  • Provide financial insights to support production planning and capital expenditure.
  • Develop and manage competitive, profit-focused pricing strategies.
  • Ensure pricing accuracy and maintain pricing controls.
• Financial Management & Control
  • Manage cash flow and ensure adequate liquidity for operations.
  • Develop cash flow forecasts and optimise working capital.
  • Monitor receivables, payables, and inventory to improve cash cycles.
  • Ensure accurate and timely preparation of financial reports with strict adherence to month-end close deadlines and compliance with internal and external stakeholder requirements.
  • Design, implement, and update internal control systems.
  • Train staff on control procedures and ensure compliance.
• Operational Support
  • Partner with agricultural managers to provide financial insights that improve productivity and profitability.
  • Support decision-making for new crops, land use, and mechanisation projects.
  • Support capital expenditure evaluations and post-implementation reviews of projects in line with strategic
    goals.
  • Monitor ROI and performance of key investments.
• Leadership & Development
  • Manage and mentor finance staff allocated to the agriculture unit.
  • Implement best practices and innovative solutions across teams.
  • Promote a culture of performance, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Requirements:

• Registered Chartered Accountant CA(SA) essential.
• Minimum of 5–7 years’ financial management experience, including at least 3 years in an agriculture and/or production environment.
• Proven experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis with a commercial focus.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, Sage X3, SAP).
• Strong analytical skills and highly proficient in Microsoft Office suite.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• Experience in cost accounting.
• Attention to detail and high level of accuracy.
• Understanding of the industry and its financial dynamics.