Integrated Livestock Operations Manager

About the role

The Integrated Livestock Operations Manager will take full operational responsibility for a large‑scale beef enterprise in the Parys area, Free State Province, South Africa. You will oversee feedlot and backgrounding systems, irrigated feed production, infrastructure, machinery, staff and livestock performance to ensure profitability, efficiency and compliance with company standards.

Key responsibilities

• Manage day‑to‑day feedlot operations and backgrounding enterprise.
• Oversee feed production, nutrition planning and livestock procurement.
• Direct irrigation management for silage, maize, lucerne and pasture crops.
• Coordinate machinery maintenance and allocation.
• Lead and develop staff across all operational areas.
• Handle financial responsibilities, budgeting and reporting.

Required profile

• Diploma or degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, Agricultural Management, Livestock Production or Agronomy (advantage).
• Minimum 10 years commercial beef experience, including feedlot management.
• Proven knowledge of backgrounding systems and large‑scale beef production.
• Experience in irrigated crop production (silage, maize, lucerne, pastures) and irrigation management.
• Strong background in machinery and staff management.
• Highly organised, practical, results‑driven leader with excellent communication and problem‑solving abilities.

Required skills

• Feedlot management
• Backgrounding system operation
• Large‑scale beef production
• Irrigated crop production (silage, maize, lucerne, pastures)
• Irrigation management
• Machinery management
• Staff management