OPERATIONS DIRECTOR – FIELD FARMING

SUMMARY:
Dar Es Salaam Area – Tanzania: Our client is looking for an Operations Director – Field Farming to join the team.
 
Only candidates with the relevant experience will be considered.

POSITION INFO:
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Science, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience managing field farming operations, preferably in Eastern Africa, with a focus on crops such as soybeans, maize, sunflower, and wheat.
• Proven track record of successfully launching and managing large-scale farming operations from scratch, covering at least 1000 hectares of land.
• In-depth knowledge of crop production techniques, soil management practices, and pest and disease control measures.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate teams to achieve targets and objectives.
• Strong business acumen and financial literacy, with the ability to develop budgets, analyse financial reports, and make data-driven decisions.
• Self-driven, ambitious, and energetic individual with a passion for agriculture and a willingness to embrace startup challenges.
• Fluent in English, both written and verbal, with proficiency in other languages considered a plus.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and adapt to changing priorities and demands.
• Willingness to travel frequently to remote farm locations and work extended hours as necessary to meet operational needs.

• Lead and manage all aspects of field farming operations, including planning, cultivation, harvesting, and post-harvest handling.
• Utilize expert knowledge and understanding of agronomy principles to optimize crop yields and ensure the highest standards of crop quality.
• Develop and implement innovative farming techniques and practices to improve efficiency, sustainability, and profitability.
• Oversee the selection and procurement of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural inputs, ensuring timely and cost-effective supply.
• Establish and maintain effective irrigation systems and water management practices to support crop growth and mitigate risks related to water scarcity.
• Lead a team of field staff, providing guidance, training, and support to ensure a high level of performance and adherence to safety protocols.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) related to farm productivity, resource utilization, and financial performance, implementing corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate closely with other departments, such as finance, procurement, and logistics, to coordinate farm activities and achieve overall business objectives.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, market dynamics, and regulatory requirements related to field farming, incorporating relevant insights into decision-making processes.
• Demonstrate strong leadership qualities, fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement within the farming team.