Farm Manager (*2)
Sustainable Transformation of Enterprises in the Poultry Sector (STEPS) Project
Background
Rural Self-help Development Association (RSDA) is a non-governmental organization (NGO) established in 1991. RSDA’s mission is to promote self-help and help smallholder farmers to run their own affairs and improve their livelihoods. RSDA cooperates with and support farmers in the 10 Districts of Lesotho. To achieve its mission, RSDA partners with multi funding partners. To maintain trust with both farmers and funding partners, farmer participation, accountability, transparency and responsiveness are very important.
Project Description
STEPS aims to catalyse private sector-driven transformation enabling local poultry sector actors to access Lesotho’s strong end-markets and reclaim market share. STEPS will transform Lesotho’s poultry sector to enhance the profitability of value chain actors, increase meat and egg production and improve food security.
Leveraging on existing opportunities and tools, STEPS will address constraints which limit production, productivity, and efficiency of local poultry egg and meat markets. A segmented approach takes into consideration the unique needs of local poultry producers, including subsistence farmers, and small to large scale commercial poultry enterprises engaged in production, processing, marketing, and retailing of eggs, meat, and processed poultry products. These actors will be engaged through the indigenous and dual-purpose poultry value chains, and the commercial broiler and layer value chains respectively. STEPS will identify pathways to further integrate and grow poultry, and poultry related business opportunities for women and youth.
Position Description
Farm Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the farm’s operations to ensure efficient and profitable production. This includes managing the day-to-day activities, such as feeding, breeding, and processing, as well as coordinating with suppliers, managing inventory, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. The Farm Manager also plays a crucial role in developing and implementing strategies to improve productivity, reduce costs, and maximize profitability and thus need to have a strong background in agriculture or a related field, with a deep understanding of poultry farming practices and industry regulations.
Reporting and Supervisory responsibilities;
The Farm Manager reports to the Project Coordinator. The position is based in either Mafeteng orLeribe.
The Farm Manager will execute the following duties:
- Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring smooth functioning of all farm activities, including feeding, housing, and health care of the poultry.
- Manage and supervise the farm staff, including training, and scheduling duties to ensure a motivated and productive workforce.
- Monitor and maintain the health and welfare of the poultry, implementing disease prevention and biosecurity measures.
- Plan and execute production cycles, monitor egg or meat production, and manage breeding programs.
- Ensure proper feed formulation and distribution, optimizing the nutritional needs of the chickens for optimal growth and productivity.
- Manage farm inventory, including feed, medicine, and equipment, to maintain efficient operations.
- Budgeting and cost control to maximize profitability and meet financial targets.
- Ensure compliance with local regulations and industry standards related to poultry farming.
- Maintain accurate records of production, expenses, and other essential farm data.
- Oversee maintenance of farm infrastructure, equipment, and facilities to ensure safety and efficiency.
- Support research activities at the farm.
- Work closely with Finance & Admin Manager and MEL officer.
- Facilitate monitoring visits by STEPS project team, stakeholders and the funding partners taking place at the farm.
- Participate in staff monthly and quarterly meetings.
- Participate in technical and specific training organized for the project staff and general RSDA staff meant for growth and development of the Extension officers.
Qualifications and Experience Required
- Bachelor’s degree – BSc in animal production, animal sciences, poultry sciences, agribusiness or entrepreneurship or other relevant fields.
- A minimum of two (2) years of farm management on animal production and entrepreneurship.
- Strong relevant experience working in the poultry sector in Lesotho is an advantage.
- Fluency in Sesotho and English with excellent writing skills.
- Ability to independently and proactively work as a team member with minimum day to day oversight.
- Should possess excellent leadership and management skills, with the ability to effectively supervise and motivate a team of farm workers.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills are essential, as the Farm Manager will be responsible for coordinating multiple tasks and resolving any issues that may arise.
- Should have a solid understanding of financial management and budgeting, as well as the ability to analyse data and make informed decisions to optimize farm operations.
Your application should include; Cover letter, CV, Certified copies of certificates and transcripts
Applications addressed to Managing Director, should only be hand delivered at RSDA Offices, situated at Rants’ala Street, Stadium Area, Opposite Coop College, Maseru
Note: No email application submissions will be accepted
Deadline for submission of applications is Friday 23rdAugust 2024 at 12:30 pm.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
