Game Farm Manager at Thungela

Job Description

• As the Game Farm Manager, you will be responsible for maintaining the welfare of game species in accordance with hunting regulations while optimising financial efficiency within the game farm.

Responsibilities will include, but not limited to:

• Ensure Compliance with Land Management Strategy for Leased Properties
• Oversee relevant lease compliance and renewals and ensure that they are completed on time.
• Manage and resolve rates, taxes, and Eskom account inquiries
• Conduct regular inspections of properties under responsibility
• Provide assistance with managing servitudes with farmers where required
• Secure unimpeded access to land by preventing illegal settlements and managing land claims
• Proactively identify illegal settlements and Liaise with Mineral, Property Rights & Permitting manager to address potential land claim risks to ensure secure and uninterrupted land use
• Support the servitude rights related to grazing, hunting, and railway lines
• Manage relationships with internal and external stakeholders regarding estate matters and prospecting issues
• Regularly engage with operational management and lessees for estate-related services
• Handle prospecting issues, including managing disputes with farmers and determining compensation
• Oversee the management of game species, breeding programs, and hunting activities
• Oversee farm inspections, maintenance, and compliance with safety and environmental standards
• Manage Effective Financial Management of the Game Farm
• Drive compliance with all relevant laws and regulations governing wildlife conservation and land management
• Foster positive relationships with local communities and stakeholders

Qualifications

• Diploma/Degree in Nature Conservation, Environmental Sciences or similar relevant tertiary education (NQF Level 7)
• Senior qualification in Wildlife management
• Member of Wildlife Ranching and Rare Breeders Association would be advantageous
• Postgraduate qualification in Wildlife Management, Agriculture (NQF Level 8) would be advantageous

Experience

• Minimum of 6 years’ experience in game farm management
• Demonstrable experience in hunting and weapon proficiency and knowledge
• Experience in veld, flora and fauna and conservation would be advantageous
• Experience in biodiversity and wildlife interventions would be advantageous