Pig Farm Manager

Position Title: Pig Farm Manager

Reports To: Operations Manager / Managing Director

Location: Modimolle, Limpopo

Employment Type: Full-time, On-site

Remuneration: Market-related, based on experience and performance

1. Position Overview

The Pig Farm Manager will be responsible for the overall management and performance of the pig production unit, ensuring optimal productivity, herd health, biosecurity, staff performance, and compliance with welfare and environmental standards.

This position requires strong technical and management skills to coordinate breeding, farrowing, weaning, and growing operations within a modern, automated piggery complex.

2. Key ResponsibilitiesA. Production Management

• Oversee day-to-day piggery operations across breeding, farrowing, nursery, and grower-finisher units.
• Plan and monitor weekly production targets (mating, farrowing, weaning, and slaughter schedules).
• Maintain herd health, productivity, and genetic integrity in collaboration with the Biosecurity & Veterinary Manager.
• Track production KPIs (e.g., pigs weaned per sow per year, feed conversion ratio, mortality rates).
• Coordinate feed requirements and quality control with the Feedmill Manager.
• Implement and maintain strict biosecurity, vaccination, and hygiene protocols.

B. Staff Supervision & Development

• Manage and mentor unit supervisors (Breeding, Farrowing, Weaner, Grower).
• Supervise approximately 20–40 production staff per site, ensuring discipline, accountability, and skills development.
• Conduct daily briefings, work allocation, and performance monitoring.
• Support HR & Admin Manager in recruitment, training, and appraisal processes.

C. Health, Safety, and Welfare

• Ensure compliance with SAPPO Welfare Code 2025 and all animal welfare regulations.
• Oversee humane handling, medication, and care practices across all units.
• Maintain high standards of worker health and safety, including PPE usage and equipment operation.

D. Feed & Nutrition

• Liaise with the Nutritionist and Feedmill Manager to optimize feed formulation and delivery schedules.
• Monitor feed consumption trends, wastage, and FCR (Feed Conversion Ratio).
• Verify accuracy of feed mixing, storage, and delivery systems.

E. Environmental & Waste Management

• Coordinate manure and slurry handling to minimize environmental impact.
• Oversee integration with the composting and biogas systems.
• Ensure lagoon management, wastewater control, and compliance with environmental permits.

F. Record Keeping & Reporting

• Maintain accurate production, breeding, and health records using digital farm management software.
• Prepare weekly and monthly performance reports (production, mortality, costs, KPI tracking).
• Report deviations, disease outbreaks, or mechanical breakdowns promptly.

G. Financial & Operational Planning

• Assist in budgeting, cost control, and procurement of farm inputs (feed, medication, equipment).
• Support the Finance Manager with inventory and asset management.
• Optimize labour productivity and operational efficiency.

H. Maintenance & Infrastructure

• Monitor farm buildings, water systems, ventilation, and feeding equipment.
• Work closely with the Maintenance Technician to ensure timely repairs and upkeep.
• Participate in facility upgrade planning and commissioning of new production infrastructure.

3. Minimum Qualifications and Experience

• Diploma or Degree in Animal Production, Agricultural Management, or Veterinary Science.
• Minimum 5–7 years' experience managing medium-to-large scale pig production (500+ sows).
• Proven track record in intensive indoor piggery operations with modern housing and automated systems.
• Strong knowledge of breeding cycles, genetics, nutrition, and disease management.
• Experience in staff leadership, reporting, and data-driven decision-making.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, farm management software, and production analytics.

4. Competencies & Attributes

• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Analytical and detail-oriented with a problem-solving mindset.
• High sense of responsibility and operational discipline.
• Excellent time management and ability to work under pressure.
• Commitment to animal welfare and sustainable farming.

5. Reporting Structure

• Direct Reports:
• Breeding Supervisor
• Farrowing Supervisor
• Weaner & Grower Supervisor
• Indirect Reports: All animal handlers and labourers within the piggery.
• Lateral Coordination: Feedmill Manager, Vet & Biosecurity Manager, Maintenance Team, and HR & Admin.

6. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Pigs weaned per sow per year ≥ 26
• Mortality rate ≤ 3% (nursery) and ≤ 2% (grower-finisher)
• Feed conversion ratio ≤ 2.6
• Sow conception rate ≥ 90%
• Production cost per kg live weight maintained within target
• Biosecurity compliance score ≥ 95%

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Work Location: In person