A leading fresh produce enterprise in South Africa is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to join its executive team, based near Kimberley in the Northern Cape.
The company is a key player in the agricultural sector and supplies both local and international markets, with operations spanning several large-scale production units and advanced packhouse facilities.
This is a rare opportunity for an experienced operational leader to take on a central role, driving performance, growth and innovation in a fast-moving, high-impact environment.
This senior management appointment requires a candidate who is comfortable operating at executive level, while also understanding and driving the operational detail, people management, financial discipline and quality standards required in a high-pressure production and packhouse environment.
Key Responsibilities
Executive Leadership: Lead and inspire a senior management team, establish operational strategies and ensure seamless execution of business objectives.
Operational Excellence: Oversee daily operations, assets and packhouse processes while ensuring compliance with food safety and quality standards. Proactively solve problems, make decisions and drive operational excellence.
People Management: Manage staff, develop teams, oversee performance management and establish a culture of accountability.
Logistics and Supply Chain: Manage transport, storage and distribution to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Engineering and Technical Collaboration: Work closely with technical and engineering teams to optimise processes and equipment performance.
Financial and Strategic Oversight: Monitor performance metrics, ensure cost control and contribute to strategic planning, expansion and investment activities.
Stakeholder Management: Maintain strong relationships with key partners, suppliers and stakeholders.
Position Requirements
• At least 15 years’ senior management experience, ideally in agribusiness, food production or large-scale industrial operations
• Proven track record in strategic planning, financial management and risk oversight
• Relevant tertiary qualification in Agricultural or Civil Engineering, or a related field
• Strong technical aptitude
• A genuine passion for agriculture is essential
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Strong presentation, negotiation and interpersonal skills
• Ability to prioritise under pressure, meet deadlines and consistently maintain high standards
Closing date: 23 September 2026
Applications: natasha@wildeklawer.com
If you have not heard from us within two weeks after the closing date of this advertisement, you may assume that your application was unsuccessful.