Business Manager

Job Title : Business Manager Location : KZN Midlands Position Type : Full-time Company Overview Our client, a dynamic player in the forestry sector, is seeking a results-driven and hands-on Business Manager. This role will support the business owner in overseeing and managing the administrative and operational functions across multiple units. The ideal candidate will bring both business acumen and a strong understanding of operations, ensuring efficient day-to-day management and long-term strategic growth. Key Responsibilities Operational Oversight : Manage daily administration and operations across forestry and agricultural units to ensure smooth and efficient functioning. Financial Monitoring : Track, analyse, and allocate costs to farming / forestry activities, with a strong focus on cost accounting and input-output analysis. Reporting : Prepare accurate and timely operational and financial reports (daily, weekly, monthly) tailored to the agricultural and forestry environment. Budget & Forecasting : Assist in budget preparation, forecasting yields, analysing variances, and ensuring cost-effectiveness of agricultural inputs and forestry operations. Policy Development : Create and implement operational policies to improve efficiency while ensuring compliance with industry regulations, labour laws, and environmental standards. Human Resource Support : Oversee staff management, resource planning, and employee administration across farming / forestry operations. Cross-Functional Coordination : Work closely with farm / forestry managers, contractors, suppliers, and other business units to optimise workflow. Strategic Support : Provide insights and recommendations to the owner to inform long-term planning, sustainability initiatives, and operational improvements. Leadership : Lead, motivate, and develop teams to improve productivity and performance in both office and field-based roles. Efficiency & Productivity : Identify and implement strategies to improve profitability, resource use, and operational efficiency. Compliance : Ensure adherence to safety, environmental, and forestry / agriculture-specific regulations. Supplier & Accounts Management : Oversee supplier relationships, ensure accurate production of purchase orders, and manage vendor payments within agreed limits. Data Collection & Analysis : Gather, track, and analyse operational and financial data, such as yield reports, input costs, and workforce productivity, to support decision-making. Candidate Profile Education : Bachelor’s degree in forestry, Agriculture, Agribusiness, or related field. Experience : Minimum of 5 years in a management or administration role, preferably in forestry, agriculture, or primary production industries. Financial Skills : Proven background in financial management, cost accounting, and generating actionable business insights. Organisational Skills : Strong administrative and organisational ability, with capacity to oversee multiple sites / units. Leadership : Demonstrated leadership with the ability to coordinate diverse teams in both operational and administrative environments. Technical Proficiency : Proficient in MS Excel and reporting tools. Industry Knowledge : Practical experience with forestry or agricultural processes, seasonal cycles, resource management, and production planning is highly valued. Personal Attributes : Proactive, detail-oriented, and resourceful, with strong integrity and initiative to drive continuous improvement. Remuneration A competitive salary package will be offered, commensurate with experience and qualifications. #J-18808-Ljbffr