General Manager - Berries - Kenya

The General Manager-Berries will be a high-impact, results-driven leader responsible for the comprehensive operational and financial management of the Company's berry portfolio (blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries). This role involves strategic planning, financial forecasting, CAPEX deliverables, and operational execution across all stages of the value chain - from cultivation and harvesting to quality assurance, relationship management with off takers, and logistics, ensuring the achievement of target volumes within cost/kg and superior product quality for export and local markets.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

1. Operational and Production Management

• Oversee all aspects of the berry business operations, including planting, irrigation, pest and disease control, harvesting, post-harvest handling, and packing.
• Implement and enforce Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and relevant Food Safety Standards to ensure berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries) meet stringent quality and safety requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement in farming techniques and technologies to enhance yield, quality, and operational efficiency.
• Develop and manage the annual crop plan and production schedule to ensure timely and consistent supply for the market.

2. Financial Management and Strategy

• Lead the development of the annual budget for the entire berry division, ensuring alignment with financial objectives.
• Conduct accurate short-term and long-term forecasting of production volumes and operational costs, regularly tracking performance against the budget.
• Utilise strong analytical skills to assess operational metrics, identify cost-saving opportunities, and drive profitability.
• Manage procurement and inventory of farm inputs, machinery, and equipment, optimising costs without compromising quality.

3. Sales, Quality, and Customer Management

• Ensure the consistent achievement of target production volumes while maintaining the highest levels of berry quality (size, firmness, taste, shelf-life).
• Oversee the packing and grading processes to meet specific customer and market requirements.
• Take the lead in key customer handling and relationship management with off takers, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and retention.
• Work closely with off takers to provide accurate volume and quality information and proactively address any customer feedback swiftly.

4. Leadership and Administration

• Provide visionary leadership to the berry operations team, including farm managers, agronomists, and administrative staff.
• Manage staff performance, development, hiring, and retention, fostering a culture of accountability, safety, and excellence.
• Ensure full compliance with all local labour, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Report directly to the group CEO, providing clear, concise, and timely reports on operational performance, financial results, and strategic initiatives.

Education, Skills, and Experience Requirements

Required Education

• A bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Horticulture, Agribusiness Management, or a closely related field.
• A Master's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Business Administration, Finance, or Agricultural Economics) is highly desirable.

Required Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in large-scale business, with at least 5 years in a senior management/General Manager role.
• Proven, hands-on experience in the commercial production of super foods (especially blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries).
• Demonstrable track record of managing a full P&L, including successful budgeting, planning, and financial forecasting.
• Significant experience managing large teams and diverse operational and commercial functions.
• Ability to perform in a rural setting.

Key Skills

• Analytical Skills: Exceptional ability to interpret complex agricultural and financial data, derive actionable insights, and make data-driven decisions.
• Planning & Organisational Skills: Superior ability to develop and execute comprehensive, long-term operational and strategic plans.
• Forecasting & Budgeting: Advanced proficiency in financial modelling, cost control, and accurately forecasting production volumes and sales performance.
• Leadership & Team Management: Proven ability to inspire, mentor, and manage a multi-disciplinary team to achieve challenging targets.
• Customer Handling & Commercial Acumen: Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills, with a focus on meeting customer volume and quality demands.
• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of modern berry agronomy, pest management, and post-harvest technology.

Email CV in WORD format: cvs@agricruitment.co.za

Please consider your application as unsuccessful if you have not been contacted within 2 weeks.

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