Maize Seed Processing Plant Manager

About the role

The Maize Seed Processing Plant Manager will lead the end‑to‑end operations of a certified maize seed processing facility, ensuring that all activities meet internal quality standards, South African seed legislation and international export requirements. The role combines operational excellence, strict compliance, and strong people leadership to deliver market‑ready seed.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the full processing cycle – receiving, drying, shelling, cleaning, grading, treating, packaging, storage and dispatch.
• Develop and execute seasonal production plans, optimise capacity utilisation and monitor KPIs such as yield recovery and downtime.
• Ensure compliance with seed certification, genetic purity, germination standards and full product traceability.
• Oversee equipment calibration, preventive maintenance programmes and coordinate breakdown response.
• Lead, supervise and develop plant teams, implement shift structures and drive safety and quality training.
• Maintain HSE compliance, promote safe chemical handling and foster a zero‑incident culture.
• Prepare production, quality and inventory reports and coordinate with Seed Production, Quality, Supply Chain and Commercial functions.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Seed Technology, Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering or a related field.
• 7–10 years of experience in maize seed processing operations and proven plant‑management experience.
• Strong knowledge of certified seed systems, South African seed legislation and international export regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead high‑performance teams and manage seasonal production pressure.

Required skills

• Seed processing equipment operation
• Quality assurance and seed certification systems
• Production planning and inventory control
• Basic computer literacy (MS Office and reporting tools)
• Maintenance coordination and operational systems