Job Description

A leading South African agricultural training institute dedicated to empowering aspiring and new entry farmers, particularly from historically disadvantaged communities, with the skills and knowledge needed for sustainable and profitable farming is looking for a Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The company has a rich history of providing practical, hands-on training in various agricultural disciplines, including crop production, livestock management, and farm business management. Its mission is to develop competent and entrepreneurial farmers who contribute to food security, economic growth, and rural development. The position will be based at the Head Offices in Pretoria East.Purpose of the roleTo provide strategic leadership and operational management to the institute, ensuring the fulfilment of its mission, achieving its strategic goals, and maintaining financial sustainability through diverse income streams and effective resource management.Key Responsibilities, Outputs and Core Tasks * Strategic Leadership and Organizational Development

• Develop with the board the strategic plan for the institute and drive the implementation of the strategic plan.
• Develop annual operational plans and budgets, aligning with the institute's mission and vision.
• Monitor and evaluate the execution of these plans, addressing deviations with the management team.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for organizational growth, innovation, and adaptation to the changing agricultural and technological landscape as well as stakeholder needs.
• Establish and expand a network of satellite farmer skills training centres across South Africa and potentially into other African countries. (This is a significant goal and deserves prominence.)
• Represent the institute at national and international forums, symposia, and meetings, enhancing its visibility and reputation.
• Financial Sustainability and Resource Management

• Ensure the financial sustainability of the institute by developing and implementing a diversified funding strategy, including grant proposals, fundraising activities, and income-generating projects.
• Manage donor contracts and ensure compliance with reporting requirements and funder expectations.
• Oversee the efficient and effective use of financial and human resources, ensuring accountability and transparency.
• Develop and manage the annual budget and monitor financial performance against budget.
• Staff Management and Development

• Provide leadership, mentorship, and performance management to the management team and staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.
• Implement and maintain effective human resource management practices, including recruitment, training, performance evaluation, and staff development.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including the Board of Directors, donors, government agencies, farming communities, and industry partners.
• Establish framework contracts with suppliers, banks, and other relevant organizations to benefit the institute's alumni.
• Develop and implement a communication strategy to promote the institute's positive image and impact.
• Prepare timely and accurate reports for various stakeholders, including the Board of Directors, donors, and government agencies.

Decision-Making AuthorityThe CEO has decision-making authority commensurate with the responsibilities outlined in this job description, reporting directly to the Board of Directors. Specific limits of authority will be defined in a separate document.Qualifications and Experience

• Recognized university degree in Agriculture, Economics, Business Administration, Education/Training, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• At least 10 years of proven commercial experience in the agricultural sector, business management, or a related field, with a strong understanding of agricultural production.
• Demonstrable experience in fundraising, grant writing, and donor relationship management.
• Minimum of five years of experience in senior management roles, with a proven track record of leading and managing teams.
• Experience in human resource management, including performance management, staff development, and conflict resolution.
• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, financial analysis, and reporting.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills (both written and oral).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and financial management software.
• Knowledge of the South African agricultural landscape, challenges, and opportunities.

Behavioural Competencies

• Leadership: Ability to inspire and motivate teams, set clear direction, and drive organizational performance - Provides leadership, mentorship, and performance management to the Operational Management Team
• Strategic Thinking/Vision: Ability to develop and articulate a compelling vision for the future of the institute and translate it into actionable strategies - Develops and implement the organization's strategic plan
• Networking/Relationship Building: Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Planning and Organizing: Ability to effectively plan, organize, and prioritize tasks and resources to achieve organizational goals.
• Management Control/Accountability: Ability to monitor performance, ensure accountability, and manage risks - Oversees the efficient and effective use of financial and human resources, ensuring accountability and transparency.
• Teamwork/Collaboration: Ability to work effectively as part of a team and foster a collaborative work environment.
• Communication: Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to present information clearly and persuasively to all stakeholders.
• Professionalism/Integrity: Adherence to high ethical standards and professional conduct.

Reporting Structure

• Reports to: Board of Directors
• Staff reporting directly to the CEO: Farm Manager, Training Manager, Business and Financial Manager, Human Resources Manager
• Chairs: Operational Management Team
• Secretary: Board of Directors

Only suitably qualified applicants will be considered. An application will not in and of itself entitle the applicant to an interview or appointment. Failure to meet the minimum requirements of the advertised post will result in applicants automatically disqualifying themselves for consideration. Applicants will be shortlisted, based on merit and contacted if they meet the requirements of the role description. References will be used to verify performance. If no response has been received within 10 days of the closing date, candidates may consider their application unsuccessful. The organisation reserves the right not to fill the vacancy.Closing date: to be confirmed

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