Farm Manager – Large-Scale Forage Production Operation
Overview
An exciting international opportunity exists for an experienced Farm Manager to lead the establishment and ongoing operation of a large-scale irrigated forage production business supplying premium export markets.
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, the successful candidate will take full responsibility for the operational, financial, agronomic and people management aspects of the farming business. The role requires a commercially minded leader capable of delivering high yields, exceptional quality standards, operational efficiency and sustainable long-term land stewardship.
Key Responsibilities
Farm Operations & Production
- Lead all farm operations including crop production, irrigation, harvesting, storage and development projects.
- Manage the production of high-quality forage crops to meet export market specifications and customer requirements.
- Develop and implement annual crop production plans, rotations and agronomic strategies.
- Optimise productivity, quality, resource utilisation and operational efficiency.
- Work closely with specialist agronomic and technical advisors to support decision-making and continuous improvement.
- Implement regenerative and sustainable farming practices that enhance soil health, water efficiency and long-term productivity.
- Ensure robust monitoring of crop performance, soil health, water quality and nutrient management.
Leadership & Team Management
- Build, lead and develop a high-performing, multicultural workforce.
- Provide day-to-day leadership, coaching and performance management for farm personnel.
- Foster a culture of accountability, safety, continuous improvement and operational excellence.
- Support recruitment, training and succession planning initiatives.
Health, Safety & Environmental Management
- Promote and maintain the highest standards of Health, Safety, Security and Environmental (HSSE) performance.
- Ensure compliance with all company policies, procedures and applicable regulations.
- Oversee environmental management programmes including waste management, resource conservation and environmental protection.
Financial & Commercial Management
- Manage farm operating budgets and cost controls.
- Monitor expenditure and support accurate financial reporting.
- Contribute to annual budgeting, forecasting and capital investment planning.
- Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and return on investment.
- Support the implementation and utilisation of farm management and reporting systems.
Supply Chain & Logistics
- Coordinate the movement of agricultural products from farm to customer destination.
- Work closely with logistics providers and internal stakeholders to ensure efficient transportation, storage and export operations.
- Monitor product quality throughout the supply chain.
Stakeholder & External Relations
- Represent the business with government authorities, industry partners, suppliers and local stakeholders.
- Support management presentations to customers, investors and strategic partners.
- Act as the company's on-site representative, maintaining strong professional relationships within the local community.
Candidate Profile
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Significant experience managing large-scale commercial farming operations.
- Strong agronomic knowledge, ideally within irrigated forage, field crop or export-oriented production systems.
- Proven leadership experience managing diverse teams in challenging environments.
- Excellent financial, operational and project management skills.
- Experience implementing data-driven farming practices and modern agricultural technologies.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management capabilities.
- A commitment to sustainable agriculture, environmental stewardship and continuous improvement.
Package
A highly competitive international package will be offered to attract an outstanding candidate, including accommodation, transport and other benefits appropriate to the location.