Managing Director – Hunting Farm

SUMMARY:
We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Managing Director to oversee the overall management and strategic direction of a private hunting and game farm in the Eastern Cape.
The successful candidate will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the property, including hunting operations, game management, conservation, farm operations, hospitality, staff management, financial administration and business development.
This is a senior leadership position suited to an individual who is highly organised, hands-on and commercially minded, with a strong understanding of game farming, hunting operations and the South African hunting industry.
Key Responsibilities

• Provide overall strategic and operational leadership for the hunting farm.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations and ensure the property is managed efficiently and professionally.
• Manage and coordinate all hunting activities, ensuring an exceptional experience for local and international hunting clients.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with professional hunters, hunting clients, outfitters and industry partners.
• Oversee game management, breeding, population management and sustainable utilisation practices.
• Monitor the health, condition and overall management of game on the property.
• Work closely with relevant professionals regarding veterinary, conservation and game-management requirements.
• Ensure compliance with applicable hunting, wildlife, environmental and firearm-related legislation and regulations.
• Oversee farm infrastructure, facilities, vehicles, equipment, roads, fencing and general maintenance.
• Manage farm staff, game rangers, hunting support staff and other employees.
• Recruit, train, supervise and manage staff performance.
• Develop and maintain operational procedures and systems.
• Oversee accommodation, guest services, Food & Beverage and hospitality operations where applicable.
• Ensure high standards of service and professionalism are maintained for hunting guests.
• Manage budgets, expenditure, cash flow and overall financial performance.
• Monitor costs and identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and profitability.
• Oversee procurement, stock control and supplier relationships.
• Develop and implement annual operational and business plans.
• Identify opportunities to grow hunting revenue and other commercial activities on the property.
• Assist with marketing and promotion of the hunting operation to local and international markets.
• Maintain strong relationships with landowners, clients, suppliers, professional hunters and other stakeholders.
• Prepare regular operational and financial reports for the owners.
• Identify operational risks and implement appropriate corrective measures.
• Ensure the farm remains well maintained, professionally managed and commercially sustainable.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum Requirements Relevant qualification in Game Ranch Management, Wildlife Management, Agriculture, Business Management, Hospitality Management or a related field would be advantageous. Minimum 5-10 years' experience in senior management , preferably within a game farm, hunting operation, private reserve or related environment. Proven experience in hunting and game-farm operations . Strong understanding of South African game-farming and hunting practices. Knowledge of game management, conservation and sustainable wildlife utilisation . Experience managing staff and overseeing multiple operational functions. Strong financial and business management skills. Experience with budgeting, cost control, procurement and administration. Strong understanding of guest and client relations, particularly within a hunting or luxury tourism environment. Excellent organisational and planning skills. Strong leadership and decision-making abilities. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. A valid driver's licence. Willingness to live and work on a remote property in the Eastern Cape . A strong understanding of relevant wildlife, hunting and environmental legislation is essential. Advantageous Experience Professional hunting experience or close involvement with professional hunters. PH qualification and relevant hunting credentials. Experience dealing with international hunting clients. Knowledge of trophy hunting and hunting logistics. Experience with game auctions, game sales or wildlife trading. Experience with game breeding and population management. Knowledge of firearms and hunting equipment. Experience managing luxury hunting lodges or guest accommodation. Agricultural or livestock farming experience. Existing industry relationships within the hunting and wildlife sector. Key Skills & Competencies Strategic & Operational Management Hunting Operations Game & Wildlife Management Conservation Farm Management Financial Management Budgeting & Cost Control Staff Leadership Guest & Client Relations Business Development Sales & Marketing Procurement & Stock Control Administration & Planning Risk Management Problem-Solving Stakeholder Management Strong Leadership & Decision-Making Ideal Candidate Profile The ideal candidate will be a hands-on and commercially minded leader with a genuine passion for hunting, wildlife and the outdoors. They must be comfortable working in a remote environment and taking responsibility for the entire operation of the property , from staff and infrastructure through to hunting clients, game management and financial performance. The successful candidate should have strong business acumen combined with practical knowledge of hunting and game-farm operations , and the ability to balance conservation and sustainable wildlife management with the commercial objectives of the property.