
Chris Vollgraaff
Executive Ranch Manager | Wildlife & Exotics Operations
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About
Owner-minded ranch and wildlife operations executive with more than two decades of experience leading livestock, exotic wildlife, capture, hunting, supporting hospitality and infrastructure operations. Proven ability to combine commercial discipline, staff leadership and asset management with hands-on field execution while building profitable, multimillion-dollar businesses.
Experience
Owner / Operator at Apex Gold Wildlife Safaris & Ranch Operations (2018-01 – Present)
- Lead integrated wildlife, ranch, livestock, hunting, lodge and international-client operations, including budgets, staffing, equipment, marketing, procurement and business development.
- Achieved approximately $850,000 in turnover during the strongest year while hosting 80-90 international clients annually at peak and managing valuable breeding and hunting assets.
- Direct wildlife breeding, capture, relocation, sales, dangerous-game hunting, infrastructure and day-to-day operational performance.
Owner / Wildlife Operations Director at Soutpansberg Game Traders (2012-01 – 2017-12)
- Built and operated a specialized wildlife trading, capture, breeding and relocation company, growing peak annual wildlife sales beyond approximately $2.2 million.
- Managed high-value wildlife procurement, sales, capture teams, veterinary coordination, transport, permits, client relationships and commercial decision-making.
Professional Hunter / Ranch and Safari Operations at Safari, Ranch & Professional Hunting Operations (2006-01 – 2012-12)
- Managed international hunting, dangerous and plains game, ranch and wildlife activities, safari logistics, lodge operations and field teams; Professional Hunter since 2006.
Ranch Operations Manager at Ranch & Livestock Management (2003-01 – 2006-12)
- Managed as many as six properties with approximately 2,500-3,000+ cattle, including cow-calf production, grazing, feed, fencing, water, payroll, auctions, security and equipment.
Education
High School Diploma equivalent (2003-01 – 2003-12)


