My Client is a leading multinational supplier of fresh fruit and related value-added products to global markets. Through their vertically-integrated supply chain they grow, source, ripen, pack, process and market quality avocado's & fresh produce – 365 days a year & across the globe.
Purpose of the role:
Reporting to the Operations Manager, the Farm manager will be responsible for managing the production unit (Avocados and Macadamias) through the effective utilisation of all its natural, human and financial resources to maximise production yields and quality whilst controlling costs.
Key Responsibilities:
- Responsible for the establishment of new and replanted orchards
- Manage fertilizer application program on avocados & macadamias
- Responsible for irrigation installation and management
- Manage full-year farming programme relating to spraying, picking, irrigation, fertilising and related activities
- Oversee maintenance and in-field repairs
- Manage the macadamia dehusking and drying facility
- Manage the use of human, financial and natural resources
- Ensure compliance with all farming accreditations and Health & Safety regulations
- Responsible for application of legal and fair labour relation practices to ensure labour stability on the section
- Manage the disciplinary processes
- Managing the development programme of sub-ordinates according to needs and priorities
- Implement and manage the performance management system
Education:
- Degree or National Diploma in Agriculture or relevant qualification
- Training in the accreditations relevant to the production of export fruit and experience in the implementation of these accreditations
Experience:
- Over 3 years’ experience managing a subtropical fruit farm
- Experience in Low-flow drip irrigation and fertigation is essential
- Working experience managing a macadamia dehusking and drying facility
- Working experience on Microsoft, and experience on D365 would be advantageous
- Valid driver’s license and experience driving offroad
- Labour management and basic labour laws
- General knowledge of the Health & Safety Act
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Behavioural Competencies:
- Self-motivated, hardworking, and energetic
- Good communication both written and verbal
- Integrity, passion for work, excellence and success
- Service oriented individual who can work under pressure and in a team environment
- Able to work with minimum supervision
- Passionate about high quality fruit production
Must-Haves (Non-Negotiables):
- Hands-on experience in subtropical fruit farming, ideally with macadamias and avocados (or similar high-value orchard crops).
- Candidates must have been directly responsible for day-to-day orchard operations.
- Strong working knowledge of irrigation and fertigation systems — including scheduling, moisture/probe monitoring, and understanding how to optimise tree health and yield through water and nutrient management.
- Demonstrated ability to manage operational costs and budgets — including planning, tracking input usage (e.g., fertilizer, labour, fuel), and making financially informed decisions at farm level.
- Solid people leadership experience, particularly with both permanent and seasonal teams. The person must be confident handling performance, training, and discipline in a practical and fair manner.
- Familiarity with compliance standards and audit processes (e.g., GlobalGAP or similar). They should be used to keeping accurate records for inspections and maintaining standards throughout the season.
- A strong sense of ownership and accountability — someone who is proactive, works independently, and takes full responsibility for the outcomes in their section.
Nice-to-Haves (Negotiables):
- Experience with post-harvest processes, particularly macadamia dehusking, would be beneficial.
- Confident using Excel or farm management software to maintain records and report on operations.
The Company offers a Total Guaranteed Remuneration Package which comprises provident fund, insured benefits, medical aid and an option to structure an annual bonus.
Housing & Vehicle provided
Email CV in WORD format: cvs@agricruitment.co.za
Please consider your application as unsuccessful if you have not been contacted within 2 weeks.
POPIA: by applying for the position, the applicant gives permission to the company to scrutinise and process personal information shared.