FARM MANAGER – MACADAMIA AND BEEF

SUMMARY:
Plettenberg Bay area, Western Cape Province – South Africa: Seeking a capable, practical and commercially minded Farm Manager to take responsibility for the day-to-day management and development.

POSITION INFO:
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
 

• Proven experience managing a substantial agricultural operation or a significant section of one.
• Strong practical knowledge of livestock and crop production; experience with cattle is important.
• Macadamia/orchard experience would be highly advantageous, and horse or equestrian experience would be useful.
• Good financial discipline with the ability to prepare and work to budgets, understand costs and interpret basic management information.
• Strong staff leadership, planning, record-keeping and problem-solving ability.
• Comfortable working directly with a Board and taking responsibility for agreed targets and projects.
• An agricultural qualification is advantageous, but strong practical experience and demonstrated management capability will carry significant weight.
• A long-term mindset and genuine enthusiasm for developing a farming business that is still in its infancy.

• Take overall responsibility for the day-to-day operation, productivity and presentation of the 750-hectare farm.
• Manage cattle operations, including grazing, breeding, animal health, handling, records and sales.
• Oversee the farm's horse and equestrian requirements, including grazing, care, facilities and coordination with relevant staff.
• Manage and develop macadamia orchards, including maintenance, inputs, irrigation, harvesting and contractor coordination.
• Plan and manage teff and other crop production, including planting, inputs, harvesting, yields and rotation.
• Prepare annual operating and capital budgets with the Board and accounting team; monitor actual performance against budget and explain variances.
• Maintain disciplined control over purchasing, fuel, feed, chemicals, labour, contractors, machinery and other farm costs.
• Manage, lead and develop farm staff and contractors, with clear accountability for work standards and productivity.
• Maintain farm infrastructure including roads, fencing, water systems, buildings, machinery and equipment.
• Maintain practical farm records and provide regular operational and financial reporting to the company.
• Identify and evaluate new agricultural opportunities and assist the Board in planning the farm's expansion and development.
• Maintain appropriate animal welfare, health and safety, environmental and regulatory standards.