Goldi - Production Manager (Breeders)

Role Summary

Goldi is seeking an experienced, passionate and results-driven Production Manager (Breeders) to take responsibility for the overall management and performance of a designated Breeder Farm Job Description

Production Manager (Villiers) Role Overview

Goldi, one of South Africa's leading integrated poultry producers within the Astral Group, is seeking an experienced, passionate and results-driven Production Manager (Breeders) to take responsibility for the overall management and performance of a designated Breeder Farm.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the Farm, ensuring optimal flock performance, high production standards, excellent biosecurity, effective people management and operational efficiency. The Production Manager will drive the farm towards achieving and exceeding production targets while maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare, health, safety and housekeeping.

This is an exciting opportunity for a hands-on leader who is passionate about poultry production, people development and achieving sustainable operational excellence.

Role Responsibilities The role will report to the Breeder Manager.

• Take full responsibility for the day-to-day management and performance of the designated breeder farm.

• Manage Rearing and Laying operation in accordance with company production standards and objectives.

• Develop, lead and motivate farm management and operational teams to achieve high levels of performance and accountability.

• Monitor flock performance and key production indicators, identify deviations and implement timely corrective actions.

• Drive the achievement of breeder production targets, including hatching egg production, fertility, hatchability, mortality, uniformity, egg quality and flock performance.

• Ensure strict adherence to farm biosecurity protocols and continuously identify opportunities to strengthen biosecurity standards.

• Ensure that bird health, welfare and environmental requirements are maintained at the highest possible standards.

• Manage and control farm operating costs and ensure resources are utilised effectively.

• Assist with the preparation and management of the farm budget and monitor expenditure against approved budgets.

• Maintain and safeguard company assets, buildings, equipment and infrastructure, ensuring that maintenance requirements are identified and addressed promptly.

• Ensure high standards of housekeeping, cleanliness and general farm presentation are maintained at all times.

• Manage farm labour effectively, including staff allocation, performance management, training and development.

• Conduct regular employee training and ensure that employees are competent and compliant with required procedures and standards.

• Develop and maintain a culture of accountability, teamwork, discipline and continuous improvement.

• Implement and maintain the 20 Keys Operational Improvement Programme on the farm.

• Ensure compliance with Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental and Animal Welfare requirements, relevant legislation and Astral Standard Operating Practices.

• Maintain accurate farm records and ensure production data is captured and reported accurately and timeously.

• Analyse farm performance data and provide regular reports and feedback to the Breeder Manager.

• Investigate production challenges and implement effective corrective and preventative actions in consultation with the Breeder Manager and relevant support departments.

• Work closely with Veterinary Services, and other support departments to optimise flock performance.

• Assist with flock placement, vaccination programmes, transfers, depletion planning and other key production activities.

• Promote a proactive approach to identifying operational risks and implementing appropriate risk-control measures.

• Ensure the farm operates efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of product quality, biosecurity and animal welfare.

• Work efficiently within a team environment with tact, professionalism and patience.

• Be willing to work weekends, public holidays and after-hours when operational requirements dictate.

Required Qualifications and Knowledge

• B.Sc. Agriculture Degree or Diploma in Agriculture.

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in poultry production, with relevant experience in breeder operations being advantageous.

• Previous farm management or supervisory experience will be advantageous.

• Strong understanding of breeder production principles and flock management.

• Knowledge and practical understanding of poultry biosecurity and animal welfare requirements.

• Strong people-management and leadership skills, with the ability to motivate and develop employees.

• Ability to monitor, analyse and interpret production data and implement corrective actions.

• Basic understanding of budgeting, cost control and farm financial management.

• Passion for implementing and maintaining the 20 Keys Operational Improvement Programme.

• Strong attention to detail and high standards of housekeeping.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal and problem-solving skills.

• Self-motivated, proactive and able to work independently.

• Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing operational requirements.

• Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and Outlook.

• Valid driver’s licence.

• Must have a passion for people, poultry production and animal welfare.

• Must be willing to work weekends and public holidays.

What We Offer

• A competitive, market-related salary package.

• Performance-based bonus.

• Onsite housing.

• Learning and development opportunities.

• Structured career development within Goldi and the Astral Group.

• Opportunity to work within the Astral Group anywhere in South Africa should suitable positions arise.

• Exposure to industry-leading poultry production systems and best practices.

• An opportunity to lead and develop a high-performing breeder farm while contributing directly to the success of the Goldi Breeder Operation.