Position: FARM MANAGER (1)

Reports To: Director of Partnership and Program Development

Basic Salary: 1,200,000/=

Other benefits: Health insurance, airtime and meals/lunch

Position overview

The Farm Manager oversees all operations at Food for His Children Farm and Innovation Center, managing livestock, agriculture, and tourism activities with a multifaceted approach that includes agricultural management, livestock breeding, and sustainable farming practices.

They coordinate breeding programs for dairy goats and crop production activities, employing innovative techniques to address food scarcity and climate change challenges. Additionally, they manage tourism initiatives to promote agro-tourism and provide hands-on learning experiences for community members, students, and tourists. In collaboration with community members and stakeholders, the Farm Manager conducts training sessions in various areas such as animal husbandry and agriculture contributing to capacity building and community empowerment. They ensure the health and well-being of farm animals by ensuring they are provided with veterinary care services and play a crucial role in resource management, monitoring farm activities, and maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations.

The Farm Manager builds positive relationships with the local community and government agencies, optimizing farm operations and implementing environmental improvement initiatives. This position requires onsite personnel to ensure adherence to project goals, ultimately contributing to Food for His Children’s mission of poverty alleviation and sustainable community development.

Responsibilities.

• Supervise the day-to-day operations of the Food for His Children Farm and Innovation Center, including livestock management, agriculture, and tourism activities.
• Coordinate breeding programs for dairy goats to improve herd genetics and productivity.
• Oversee crop production activities, including planting, irrigation, fertilization, and harvesting, utilizing innovative techniques to maximize yields.
• Develop and implement sustainable farming practices to address food scarcity and mitigate the impact of climate change.
• Manage tourism initiatives at the farm, including educational programs and special events to promote agro-tourism.
• Collaborate with community members, Tanzanian students, and tourists to provide hands-on learning experiences.
• Collaborate with training coordinators in providing training sessions in animal husbandry, agriculture, health, environment, leadership, savings, and entrepreneurship for community members.
• Collaborate with Veterinary specialists to provide veterinary care services for livestock, including treatment of illnesses and preventive care measures.
• Coordinate with agricultural field officers to align training content with farm objectives.
• Utilize site plan guidelines to ensure efficient operation and utilization of farm resources.
• Monitor and evaluate farm activities to assess progress and make adjustments as necessary.
• Develop and manage the farm budget, allocating resources effectively to meet operational needs.
• Supervise farm staff, providing guidance, training, and support to foster a positive work environment.
• Maintain accurate records of inventory, equipment, supplies, and livestock.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations on the farm to promote a safe working environment.
• Foster positive relationships with the local community, stakeholders, and partners.
• Represent the farm at community events and meetings to promote collaboration and support.
• Coordinate with government agencies and livestock specialists to optimize farm operations.
• Implement protocols for deworming, dehorning, vaccination, and other routine animal care procedures.
• Oversees the production of goat milk and the manufacturing of various items derived from goat milk, such as gelato, soaps, yogurt, and cheese.
• Supervise and record milk production, ensuring accurate documentation and efficient management of resources.
• Manage breeding programs for goats, maintaining meticulous records of breeding goats to prevent inbreeding and optimize genetic diversity.
• Supervise the distribution of goats to project site beneficiaries in collaboration with livestock specialists, ensuring fair and equitable allocation of resources.
• Oversees the sales of goats, actively seeking markets for goat milk and goats to maximize revenue and support the sustainability of the farm.
• Responsible for market research, negotiation, and sales activities, contributing to the financial viability of the farm and the broader mission of Food for His Children.
• Valuate breeding programs to improve genetic diversity and herd health.
• Develop partnerships with other organizations to enhance the farm’s impact and reach.
• Participate in weekly staff meetings and central committee meetings as required.
• Assess the quality of pass-on and pass-back livestock and provide reports to the Director of Partnership and program development.
• Develop and implement a plan for environmental improvement, including tree planting initiatives and environmental sanitation.
• Collaborate with the Director of Partnership and Program Development to review progress and address challenges.
• Prepare and submit weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual reports on farm activities and outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with project contract terms and conditions related to farm management.
• Obtain and maintain a valid driver’s license as required for farm operations.

Qualifications:

• Desire to live and lead like Jesus and alignment with Food for His Children’s core values and beliefs
• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Animal Science, Agronomy, or related field. Advanced degree preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in agricultural management, with expertise in both livestock and crop production.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to effectively supervise staff and oversee diverse operations.
• Comprehensive knowledge of animal husbandry practices, including breeding, nutrition, and health care.
• Proficiency in crop cultivation techniques, soil management, and pest control methods, with a commitment to sustainable farming practices.
• Excellent budgeting and financial management skills, with the ability to develop and manage budgets effectively.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities, with attention to detail and the ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations applicable to agricultural operations, with a commitment to promoting a safe working environment.
• Proficiency in computer applications related to farm management, including MS Office and agricultural software.

How to Apply:

If you meet the specified qualifications and are enthusiastic about this opportunity, we encourage you to submit your cover letter, curriculum vitae, academic and professional certificates and valid driver’s license, if required for position. Additionally, please include the names and contact information of three references. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

If you do not have a driver’s license and intend to ride a bicycle, please include a statement about that in your cover letter.

Applications should be sent to the Director of Partnership and Program Development,

Food for His Children Inc -Karatu, Tanzania. Email: jobs@foodforhischildren.org

The application deadline is MAY 21st, 2024. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.