Estate Management Couple for Farm and Guesthouse at Marvel Placement Consultant

Job Description

• We are seeking a dedicated couple to manage and oversee the operations of a multifaceted estate comprising a farm, guesthouse, and recording studio situated in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The ideal candidates will be responsible for financial management, staff coordination, guest services, marketing, agricultural management, and general maintenance.

Minimum Requirements

• Diploma in Agriculture or Wildlife/Animal Management.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience working on a farm or in a related agricultural environment.
• Diploma in Business Administration or related field.
• At least 2 years of experience working in administration at a guesthouse or lodge.
• Strong financial management skills.
• Excellent communication and organisational abilities.
• Strong Microsoft Office skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff and external partners.
• Knowledge of agricultural practices and maintenance procedures.

Roles and Responsibilities
Financial Management

• Maintain and update Management Accounts as per established ledgers.
• Liaise daily with Linda regarding payments, banking, VAT, PAYE, and taxes.
• Manage debtors, follow up on payments, and handle invoicing and payment schedules.

Staff Coordination

• Collect and verify daily timesheets and manage leave schedules.
• Source additional staff as needed and verify their bank details.
• Liaise with the labour broker on all staff-related matters.

Asset and Inventory Management

• Monitor and log the movement of all movable assets related to the guesthouses and farm operations.
• Track and log usage of fuel, water, and electricity.

Guest Services

• Welcome and assist guests, providing 24/7 contact during their stay.
• Manage guest check-in protocols and oversee guesthouse operations.

Marketing and Promotion

• Operate and manage an online booking platform.
• Organise promotional meetings for the farm and studio.
• Manage social media profiles and liaise with delis to promote products.
• Seek tenants for unused warehouses or initiate bond storage permits.

Grape Production Management

• Analyse grape production, soil quality, and water systems; recommend improvements.
• Oversee pruning, maintenance, and harvesting of grapes.
• Market and sell grapes, with future plans to produce in-house wine.

Flora and Fauna Management

• Ensure appropriate water delivery and manage nutrition for fauna.
• Remove undesirable foreign species and address water pollution issues.

General Maintenance

• Familiarise with farm maintenance requirements and schedule necessary work.
• Maintain a list of on-call subcontractors for emergencies.
• Develop and implement emergency procedures for water/power failures, theft, and breaches.

Grounds and Facility Maintenance

• Maintain grounds and systems, including pruning, removing invasive plants, and preparing wood for BBQs.
• Inspect and maintain fences, drains, security cameras, and lighting.
• Ensure energy efficiency of solar arrays and maintain the system.
• Schedule maintenance checks for the generator, farm implements, and vehicles.

Additional Responsibilities

• Set up and maintain the farm butchery.
• Oversee culling and game supervision.
• Clean and maintain tools, machinery, landscaping equipment, and vehicles.
• Address any other reasonable requests as needed.