Operational Manager - Packhouse & Quality

Operational Manager: Packhouse & Quality

Company: Southernfarms / Southerncross Marketing & Management

Job Description

We are looking for a motivated, experienced, and hands-on individual to join our team in a Packhouse & Quality Operational Manager role. This position is based across both the Northern Cape and Western Cape.

This is an exciting opportunity for an individual with experience in the fresh produce industry and a strong understanding of packhouse operations, quality control, productivity, stock management, and food safety standards.

Key ResponsibilitiesPackhouse Management & Operations

• Support management in grape and date packhouses.
• Manage packing programmes in collaboration with Unit Managers and the Marketing Department.
• Manage stock levels and ensure the availability of packing materials.
• Take responsibility for the Granite stock system.
• Oversee cooling and storage facilities, loadouts, and liaise with the Logistics Department.
• Maintain packhouse procedures, systems, and operational standards.
• Manage unexpected incidents and operational challenges effectively.
• Ensure smooth and efficient packhouse operations.

Quality Assurance & Control

• Conduct quality control (QC) activities at various packhouses.
• Identify and communicate quality issues and assist with implementing corrective actions.
• Upload quality reports and provide weekly reporting.
• Update packing guides for table grapes and dates.
• Maintain accurate documentation and information on Vitrax, Granite, Marco, containers, stock, productivity, quality, and other relevant systems.
• Ensure compliance with local and international quality specifications and standards.
• Monitor and support the consistent implementation of quality assurance procedures.

Minimum Requirements

• At least 5 years of experience in packhouse management and quality control.
• Strong knowledge of table grape and/or date packing operations.
• A practical, hands-on approach to work.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage operational challenges.
• Strong organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• A valid driver's licence.
• Willingness to travel between farms and packhouses in the Northern Cape and Western Cape.
• Experience with relevant packhouse management, stock, and quality control systems will be advantageous.

Skills and Competencies

• Packhouse operations management.
• Quality assurance and quality control.
• Stock management and productivity monitoring.
• Knowledge of fresh produce packing standards.
• Attention to detail and accurate recordkeeping.
• Leadership and teamwork.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines.
• Adaptability and effective problem-solving.

Location

The position is based across farms and packhouses in the Northern Cape and Western Cape. The successful candidate must be willing to travel between locations as required.

How to Apply

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements are invited to submit their CVs to:

Email: diani@southerncrossmm.co.za

Closing Date: 18 September 2026

Please ensure that your CV clearly outlines your relevant experience in packhouse management, quality control, and fresh produce operations.

Pay: From R12 500,00 per month

Work Location: In person