Job Description

Our client is looking for an experienced, self-motivated and target driven Farm Manager for their farm in the Wolseley area.Company Overview:An Agricultural business which builds, maintains and grows world class primary production operations which produce and pack high value exportable produce. Their core values revolve around Relationships, Stewardship, Excellence, and Integrity.Position Overview:The Manager will oversee all operations of our blueberry farm, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and profitability. This role involves all production related matters, staff management, budget adherence, productivity measurement, quality assurance, and farm maintenance.Key Responsibilities:Production Oversight:

• Supervise all production practices on the farm, ensuring adherence to industry standards and best practices.
• Implement strategies to optimize productivity and efficiency in blueberry cultivation.
• Regularly inspect fields and facilities to maintain high standards of production.
• Ensure accurate and timely record-keeping of farm activities.
• Track and optimize yield per hectare, ensuring productivity of the blueberry farm.
• Maintain a high percentage of blueberries meeting quality standards for export.

Financial Management:

• Manage the farm's financial performance by comparing actual production costs against the budget.
• Develop and manage the farm budget, ensuring efficient cash flow.
• Implement cost reduction measures and evaluate spending efficacy.
• Monitor actual production costs against budgetary projections and identify areas for cost optimization.
• Implement effective cost reduction measures to improve profitability while maintaining quality standards.

Staff Management:

• Plan and implement weekly & daily staff and activity planning, coaching, and monitoring.
• Monitor staff performance and provide feedback to enhance productivity and efficiency.
• Conduct performance evaluations and training sessions to enhance team skills.

Yield Optimisation:

• Track and analyse yield per hectare, identifying factors impacting productivity and implementing corrective measures.
• Implement strategies to optimise blueberry yield and quality, ensuring maximum profitability.

Compliance and Quality Assurance:

• Ensure health, safety, and security compliance on the farm.
• Maintain compliance with government regulations and legal requirements.
• Implement quality control measures to meet or exceed customer expectations.

Infrastructure and Asset Maintenance:

• Manage contractors to adhere to timelines for development projects.
• Oversee maintenance of farm infrastructure, equipment, and vehicles.
• Minimize downtime of company vehicles through effective maintenance planning.

Stakeholder Relations:

• Build and maintain good relationships with suppliers & contractors.
• Represent the company in negotiations and discussions with external partners.
• Facilitate development within the wider business of the company.

Key Performance Areas (but not limited to):

• People management, motivation, and direction
• Process planning and control.
• Production management according to seasonal activities
• Production standards
• Financial control
• Vision and Innovation

Position Requirements:

• Agriculture or similar tertiary qualification
• Minimum of 5 - 7 years practical seasonal experience in fruit production and farm management
• Minimum of 3 - 5 years in a middle management role
• Advanced computer skills (MS Office suite) and familiarity with IT systems (e.g., Power BI, Farm Trace, ACCPAC, Soil Moisture Probes advantageous)
• Knowledge of all audits and cultivating plants to produce fruit to required standards.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong work ethic with accuracy, thoroughness, drive, and integrity
• Demonstrated management and leadership qualities.
• Good project planning and monitoring skills
• Physically fit to perform the work.
• Valid driver's license
• Proficiency in English or Afrikaans (ability to speak Xhosa or Sotho advantageous)
• Strong numerical skills
• Strong organization and planning skills in meeting deadlines
• Action-oriented approach with a strong sense of accountability
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Self-disciplined, collaborative, resilient, and a team player
• Willingness to work overtime, public holidays, and weekends when required.

Area: WolseleyStarting date: As soon as possible.Salary: R50 000-R70 000Benefits: Housing is provided.Please apply online for this position if you meet the above-mentioned requirements.Please assume that your application was unsuccessful if you have not been contacted within 4 weeks.

ARVO