Ian Meyer

Dynamic Farm Manager with over 15 years of comprehensive experience in agricultural operations, specializing in farm management, project execution, and personnel oversight, with a proven track record in optimizing production processes, improving conservation efforts, and implementing effective pest and weed control strategies, successfully managed large-scale farming operations, achieving sustainability and efficiency objectives, eager to leverage strong leadership skills and rich agricultural expertise to enhance operational success in a Farm Manager role. Taking ownership and pride in all my operations.

Farm Manager - Saragossa - Emgwenya

(2024-09)

• Oversee pecan nut production, including planting, irrigation, harvesting, and pest management.
• Establish fire breaks to enhance safety measures.
• Execute conservation strategies and manage weed control effectively.
• Implement security measures and anti-poaching initiatives.
• Maintain and service all vehicles, tractors, and agricultural implements.
• Ensure the upkeep of all buildings and infrastructure on the farm.
• Conduct regular maintenance of roads, and fences.

Farm Manager - Ametis Guest Farm - Emgwenya

(2022-04 - 2024-08)

• Oversee maintenance operations, ensuring accuracy in basic electrical work, construction, carpentry, and plumbing.
• Manage farm personnel and address staff-related matters efficiently.
• Perform manual labour, operate heavy machinery (TLB), and supervise farming activities, including planting, landscaping, and gardening, while liaising with clients.
• Prepare and execute the burning of fire breaks.
• Accountable for budget management and the compilation of monthly reports.
• Conduct inventory assessments of tools, equipment, and machinery.
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and maintain effective communication with staff.
• Ensure adherence to all company policies and practices.

Self Employed - Meyersrust Farm Chickens - Vryheid

(2016-07 - 2022-03)

• Specialised in chicken farming, with a capacity of 2,500 broilers per week.
• Engaged in free-range pig farming, sheep farming, and feedlot operation.
• Specialise vegetable farming, focusing on green peppers, chillies, spinach and cabbage.
• Performed general farm maintenance and managed irrigation system pumps.

Project Manager - Working on fire - Vryheid/PMB

(2017-04 - 2019-08)

• Directed burn projects during the fire season, contributing significantly to a four-month period annually.

Sales Consultant - Bundu outdoor Centre - Vryheid

(2010-03 - 2016-08)

• Executed sales strategies for fishing tackle, outdoor and camping gear, 4x4 accessories, boating gear, and spares.
• Managed inventory ordering processes and stock control.
• Conducted thorough stock-taking to maintain accurate inventory levels.

Operations Manager - Timcor - Vryheid/Hlobane Area

(2003-01 - 2009-12)

• Oversaw all silviculture practices and harvesting operations to enhance efficiency.
• Managed logistics and coordinated timber and bark movements.
• Implemented fire protection operations to safeguard resources.
• Directed workshop and fleet management, optimising machinery costs and maintenance for fencing, water pumps, and construction.
• Developed operational plans and managed workforce training.
• Ensured compliance with FSC standards, and addressed wage distributions.
• Supervised stock control, and the capturing and issuing of consumables.
• Completed month-end reports and managed health and safety procedures.
• Oversaw human resources functions, conservation planning, and implementation for sustainability.
• Monitored attendance and daily operations, ensuring production, quality control, and standards.
• Maintained health and safety legal compliance for a workforce of up to 120 individuals, depending on the season.

Silviculture Contractor - Hlatini Forestry - Babanango

(2000-01 - 2002-12)

• Conducted comprehensive silviculture exercises and harvesting operations.
• Executed fire protection tasks and actively managed fire towers during critical periods.
• Participated in standby operations and developed effective operational plans.
• Oversaw training and management of labourers, ensuring compliance with FSC and ISO standards.
• Managed stock control and implemented conservation initiatives, providing oversight of attendance records and daily operations.
• Focused on production and quality control, ensuring compliance with health and safety standards for a labour force of 150 individuals, depending on the season.

Certificate of Higher Education - Grade 12 - Pionier High School, Vryheid (1999)