COMMERCIAL MANAGER, Soweto

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

A Bachelor's degree in Agribusiness, Commerce, Agriculture, Business Administration, or a related field; a postgraduate qualification will be a distinct advantage

A minimum of 7–10 years' experience in a senior commercial or operational management role, ideally within the FMCG, agri-business, or food production sector

Demonstrable experience managing large teams (100+ employees) across multi-functional departments

Proven track record in procurement, contract negotiation, and supply chain management

Experience in feed mill management or poultry / livestock production will be a significant advantage

Experience developing business cases and leading capital projects from inception to completion

Strong financial acumen— ability to manage budgets, interpret financial reports, and drive cost efficiencies

SKILLS AND ATTRIBUTES REQUIRED

Exceptional leadership and people management capabilities— able to inspire, develop, and hold a large team accountable

A strong commercial instinct, with the ability to identify and execute on business opportunities

Excellent negotiation and relationship management skills at a senior level

High computer literacy— proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and reporting tools is essential; SAGE experience advantageous

Meticulous attention to detail with strong organisational and planning skills

Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple priorities, and meet demanding deadlines

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

A hands‑on, proactive approach — willing to lead from the front

Highest standards of personal integrity and professionalism

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO FEED MILL OPERATIONS

Full management of the poultry feed mill, including production scheduling, quality control, and cost management

Develop, manage, and continuously refine feed rations to optimise poultry health and performance

Oversee all maintenance and upkeep of feed mill equipment in conjunction with the Workshop Manager

Monitor and manage daily, weekly, and monthly production output and reporting

PROCUREMENT&SUPPLY CHAIN

Manage the procurement of all feed mill inputs— macro packs, vitamins, minerals, and all raw feed ingredients

Lead annual maize procurement campaigns— sourcing, contracting, storage planning, and logistics

Negotiate, establish, and manage annual supply contracts with key raw material suppliers

Ensure optimal stock levels of all inputs while minimising holding costs and supply risk

Develop and maintain a reliable, competitive supplier base across all procurement categories

SALES, MARKET STRATEGY&DISTRIBUTION

Oversee the full sales and distribution function for the company’s table egg range across Zambia and the region

Work directly with and provide leadership to a sales and distribution team of 130+ employees

Set and drive the market strategy— formal retail, informal trade, I&I, exports, and new channel development

Manage route‑to‑market planning, depot development, and distribution fleet operations

Monitor and analyse sales performance data, setting and reviewing targets by channel, product, and customer

Develop and lead trade marketing, brand development, and point‑of‑sale initiatives

Conduct regular sales meetings and produce timely management reports for the Directors

Identify and develop new revenue streams and market opportunities

COMMERCIAL FARMING OPERATIONS

Help oversee the full commercial farming operation, providing commercial and strategic direction across all arable cropping activities

Help develop, own, and manage detailed planting budgets for both summer and winter crop seasons— covering soya beans, maize, cover crops, and wheat

Lead procurement negotiations for all crop inputs— seed, fertilizer, chemicals, fuel, and seasonal contracting — ensuring cost‑competitiveness and security of supply

Lead sales negotiations and contracting for crop output— managing buyer relationships, pricing strategy, and forward contracts for grain and oilseed sales

Assist in planning and executing farm expansion projects, including new dam construction and centre pivot irrigation installation, working closely with the farming and engineering teams

Help monitor crop performance, yield data, and input costs to ensure farming operations consistently achieve profitability and efficiency targets.

FERTILIZER PLANT&ORGANIC PRODUCTS DEVELOPMENT

Lead the development of a comprehensive business case for the design and construction of a commercial chicken manure fertilizer manufacturing plant

Drive the project from concept through to construction, commissioning, and commercial launch

Develop the product range and go‑to‑market strategy for processed organic chicken manure products

Establish sales channels and route‑to‑market for the organic fertilizer range — commercial farmers, smallholders, retail

Develop and grow a sustainable commercial market for the organic fertilizer product line, establishing the company as a recognised brand in the agricultural inputs sector

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