Jaco Botha
Experienced agricultural professional and Potato Crop Supervisor
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About
Hands-on agricultural leader with over 20 years' experience in commercial crop and livestock farming, including more than three years within the New Zealand vegetable industry. Currently working as a Potato Crop Supervisor with AS Wilcox, with practical experience managing potato production from planting through harvest, coordinating teams, monitoring crop performance, and supporting safe and efficient operations. Previously owned and managed farming operations for 14 years, giving strong experience in planning, budgeting, staff leadership, machinery management, crop production, and making operational decisions.
A reliable and adaptable team member who enjoys working alongside others, solving problems, and continuously improving farming systems.
Experience
Potato Crop Supervisor - AS Wilcox - Pukekohe, New Zealand
(2024-11)
- Manage and supervise potato crop operations from planting through to harvest
- Coordinate daily activities and support farm teams to achieve seasonal production targets
- Monitor crop health, irrigation, fertiliser programmes, spraying activities, and crop development
- Work closely with Production Managers, agronomists, and operational teams to make informed crop decisions
- Assist with planning and execution of seasonal activities to improve efficiency and crop performance
- Ensure machinery is operated safely and effectively
- Support workplace health and safety standards and encourage a positive team culture
- Provide practical knowledge and support to team members to improve daily operations
Spray Technician & Machine Operator - AS Wilcox - Pukekohe, New Zealand
(2023-05 - 2024-11)
- Operated and maintained agricultural spraying equipment
- Applied agrichemicals safely and accurately according to crop requirements
- Supported potato production activities including spraying, machinery operation, and general crop work
- Developed strong knowledge of AS Wilcox production systems and operational expectations
Owner / Farm Manager - Fanlyn Trust - Marble Hall, South Africa
(2009-04 - 2023-05)
- Established and managed multiple farming operations from start-up through to full production
- Managed commercial crops including potatoes, maize, wheat, beans, lucerne, and vegetables
- Managed livestock operations including cattle and horses
- Led farm teams and coordinated daily operations to achieve production goals
- Managed budgets, input costs, suppliers, contractors, and financial planning
- Planned planting, irrigation, fertilising, spraying, and harvesting programmes
- Used soil testing and crop monitoring to improve productivity
- Maintained farm infrastructure, machinery, and irrigation systems
- Worked closely with agronomists and industry suppliers to improve crop performance
