Midlands Area – KwaZulu-Natal: Our client is looking for an Agronomy and Operations Manager to join the team.
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MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in large-scale crop or dairy farm management.
- Strong knowledge of forage crops, soil science, and sustainable farming practices.
- Proven leadership experience in managing diverse teams and large-scale operations.
- Experience in labour management, including recruitment, training, and conflict resolution.
- Fluency in Zulu is not mandatory but would be beneficial for successful team engagement.
- Proficiency in farm management software, precision agriculture tools, and budgeting.
- Valid driver’s license.
SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES REQUIRED
- Strong leadership, people management, and team-building skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and motivate staff.
- Strategic planning and problem-solving abilities.
- Conflict resolution and performance management expertise.
- Adaptability to seasonal changes and agricultural challenges.
- Attention to detail with strong organizational capabilities.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO
Agronomy & Forage Management:
- Develop and implement crop plans for silage, pasture, and supplemental feed crops.
- Optimize soil health through effective fertilization, crop rotation, and soil conservation practices.
- Monitor crop growth, pest control, and irrigation strategies to maximize yield and quality.
Farm Operations:
- Oversee day-to-day field operations including planting, harvesting, fertilization, and irrigation.
- Coordinate the maintenance and scheduling of farm equipment and infrastructure.
- Manage input procurement (seeds, fertilizers, chemicals) and control operational budgets.
Labour Management & Development:
- Lead, manage, and motivate a diverse workforce, including supervisors, machine operators, and seasonal labourers.
- Implement effective labour planning and scheduling to align with seasonal demands and operational needs.
- Develop and execute training programs focused on agronomy best practices, machinery operation, safety protocols, and efficiency improvement.
- Foster a positive work environment that promotes accountability, teamwork, and professional growth.
- Conduct regular performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback and development opportunities.
- Manage labour relations, ensuring compliance with labour laws, health and safety regulations, and company policies.
- Encourage a culture of continuous learning, skills development, and operational excellence.
- Proficiency in Zulu would be highly advantageous for effective communication and team management.
Data & Performance Monitoring:
- Utilize farm management software and precision agriculture tools to track crop and operational data.
- Analyse performance metrics to make data-driven decisions for continuous improvement.
- Report regularly on crop yields, soil conditions, workforce productivity, and operational KPIs to senior management.
ONLY short-listed candidates will be contacted.