Full responsibility for the strategic and operational management of the company, with specific reference to the following:
Ultimate responsibility for the execution of duties according to the job descriptions of the respective department managers.
Strategic direction concerning the vision, mission, objectives, and structure of the company.
Client liaison and promotion of customer relationships.
Reporting to the board through board meetings and ad-hoc communications with the Board of Directors.
Regular communication with producers/shareholders of the company.
Promoting the interests of shareholders.
Enhancing the company's image and establishing our brand.
Ensuring that the packaging and refrigeration of fruit are done in the most productive, cost-effective, and efficient manner.
Identifying marketing agents, allocating packed volumes, controlling and managing marketing agents regarding performance in terms of prices achieved and quality of service delivered. Regular communication with marketing agents concerning crop estimates, pricing, contracts, etc.
Acting as the owner of the food safety system, overseeing its application, and making funds available to operate an effective system. Keeping the operation informed of any changes to standards and client requirements in this regard. Also, acting as HACCP/BRC team leader.
Acting as the external communications officer for the company.
Overarching control of financial disciplines within the company regarding budgets, their management, and the application of internal financial controls.
Regular communication with the management team through management meetings covering food safety, finance and administration, operational, and labor issues.
Overall control concerning the appointment of personnel and management of the personnel plan.
Ultimately responsible for compliance with all statutory requirements and legislation, i.e., labor, occupational safety, corporate law, etc.
Proper resource planning, concerning personnel, facilities, equipment, and vehicles, and ensuring that necessary technological advancements are kept up with.
Establishment and control over the application of a disciplinary code within the company and managing personnel in a manner that promotes increased productivity and morale among staff, ensuring actions are in line with the Basic Conditions of Employment Act and the Labor Relations Act.
Protecting the external interests of the company.
REQUIREMENTS:
Postgraduate qualification in Business Management, with specific references to Financial Management and/or Engineering.
Minimum of 5 years of experience in a similar role. Experience specifically in agriculture and/or soft fruit industry will be advantageous for the applicant.
CORE SKILLS & ATTRIBUTES:
Financial management skills
Production management skills
Good labor relations and personnel management skills
Strong analytical skills
Client liaison and negotiation abilities
Problem-solving skills
Good communication skills and the ability to maintain good interpersonal relationships.
Additionally, the person must be of integrity with high moral values and a positive value system.
