South Africa: Operations Director- Poultry Division posted by Deka Minas (Pty) Ltd

Please note this position is based in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia. All relocation Costs will be covered.

The Operations Director Poultry Division will be responsible for overseeing and optimizing all poultry farming and hatchery operations, covering both breeder and broiler production. This executive role requires strategic leadership, operational excellence, and deep technical expertise to ensure consistent productivity, profitability, and adherence to the highest standards of quality, biosecurity, and animal welfare. The incumbent will play a pivotal role in shaping operational strategy, driving innovation, and ensuring sustainable growth across all poultry business units.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and management for the end-to-end operations of poultry farms and hatcheries.

• Develop, implement, and monitor operational strategies to enhance efficiency, production performance, and cost-effectiveness.

• Oversee breeding, hatching, brooding, and grow-out operations to meet production goals and quality standards.

• Lead and mentor farm and hatchery management teams, fostering a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement.

• Ensure full compliance with biosecurity, food safety, animal welfare, and environmental regulations.

• Collaborate with veterinary and technical experts to develop and implement flock health programs, vaccination schedules, and disease prevention measures.

• Analyze operational data, identify performance gaps, and execute corrective and preventive action plans.

• Manage operational budgets, resource planning, and cost control initiatives to ensure optimal financial performance.

• Coordinate with cross-functional departmentsprocurement, logistics, feed mill, and salesto ensure seamless supply chain operations.

• Evaluate and implement innovative technologies and automation solutions to modernize poultry production systems.

• Prepare and present operational performance reports to the executive committee and stakeholders.

• Drive sustainability initiatives, focusing on efficient energy usage, waste management, and environmental stewardship.

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Bachelors Degree in Veterinary Science (BVSc) or equivalent in Animal Production, Agricultural Science, or related field.

• Experience: Minimum of 15 years experience in poultry operations, with a strong background in farm and hatchery management (breeder and broiler).

• Leadership: At least 10 years experience in a senior leadership or operations management capacity within a large-scale poultry or agribusiness organization.

• Technical Expertise:

  • Comprehensive understanding of poultry production systems, nutrition, and health management.

  • Proven experience in biosecurity, quality assurance, and animal welfare management.

  • Demonstrated success in operational optimization, cost management, and productivity improvement.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and people management abilities, with a focus on developing high-performing teams.

• Strategic thinker with a results-driven and analytical approach to decision-making.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.

• High level of business and financial acumen, with experience managing large budgets and cost-control programs.

• Proven ability to implement change management and process improvement initiatives.

• Familiarity with modern poultry management software and data-driven decision tools.

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure, and dynamic environment.