Agricultural Operations Director

About the Role:

Farm Manager SA seeks an accomplished leader to lead our team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in agricultural management and international sales, with a strong understanding of global market dynamics.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Leadership and Team Management: Develop and implement strategies to optimize team performance, provide guidance and support to junior staff, and enhance their capabilities.
2. Sourcing and Sales Targets: Establish and achieve annual sourcing targets for various fruits, including apples, pears, citrus, and kiwis, and develop global sales plans to ensure optimal market positioning.
3. Pack House and Storage: Identify and secure high-quality leased pack houses and storage spaces to meet operational needs, and establish contracts with service providers for seamless logistics.
4. Coordination and Quality Control: Coordinate with General Managers of overseas companies to ensure efficient sourcing and packing processes, and ensure compliance with global customer quality requirements and regulations.
5. Marketing and Market Development: Oversee marketing activities across all operational locations to enhance brand visibility, and explore and develop new export markets to increase revenue streams.
6. Management of Fruit for Global Sales: Classify and categorize fruit based on global market suitability and demand, and ensure compliance with international regulations and certifications.
7. End-to-End Management: Manage activities from procurement to shipping to ensure seamless logistics, and document all commitments with stakeholders to maintain transparency.
8. Emergency and Critical Situations: Address emergency situations to ensure business continuity and minimize losses, and maintain contacts for logistics and customs support to facilitate smooth operations.
9. Strategic Management: Formulate and execute strategies to optimize grower relationships and enhance competitiveness, and implement a global sourcing model to improve operational efficiency.
10. Financial and Operational Reporting: Propose and implement strategic plans for revenue growth and financial stability, and ensure transparent financial reporting to stakeholders.
11. Business Plan and Policy Implementation: Lead the development and implementation of business plans and policies to ensure compliance with regulations, and ensure adherence to company policies and procedures.
12. Manpower and Performance Monitoring: Monitor organizational manpower and operational performance to identify areas for improvement.
13. Safe Storage and Quality Assurance: Ensure safe storage and quality control measures are in place to maintain product integrity.

Estimated Salary Range: $120,000 - $180,000 per annum

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Business Administration, or related field.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in agricultural management and international sales.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of global market dynamics.

Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off.