Job Description

Our client, South African Sugarcane Research Institute (SASRI) a division of the South African Sugar Association (SASA) has a permanent opportunity available for an Extension and Biosecurity Manager based in Mount Edgecombe, KwaZulu-Natal. This critical leadership role involves providing strategic oversight and practical support to a large team of extension and biosecurity specialists, ensuring the effective delivery of services to the 22,000 growers within the agri industry.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead a team of extension and biosecurity specialists to facilitate the delivery of effective services.
• Provide support to the Small-scale and Land Reform Grower Extension Manager.
• Facilitate regionally based extension specialists' annual programs in collaboration with local sugarcane grower leadership.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with growers and internal functions.
• Provide leadership to the biosecurity inspectorate for mitigating bio risks and developing tactics for emerging threats.
• Manage regulatory affairs in pest, disease, and sugarcane variety control.
• Represent the company on regulatory bodies and committees within and external to the industry.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Post-graduate qualification in agricultural or biological sciences.
• Five years of senior management experience.
• Over five years of advisory or research experience in agricultural pests, diseases, and crop husbandry.
• Business-related qualification advantageous.

Skills and Competencies:

• Extensive experience in agricultural extension.
• Strong communication (written and verbal) and influencing skills.
• Planning, coordination, and project management skills.
• Knowledge of biosecurity, environmental, and agro-chemical legislation.
• Customer service focus.
• Computer literacy, including Microsoft Word/Excel.

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to motivate, inspire, and manage complex operational teams.
• Understanding of budget management and health and safety compliance.
• Valid driver's license and roadworthy vehicle for extensive travel (SA and Cross border)

If you are a dynamic individual with the required qualifications and experience, ready to take on a challenging and impactful role in the agricultural sector, we invite you to apply. Join our team and contribute to the sustainable growth of the agri industry

Ntice Sourcing Solutions