Manager BtW Iphepe Agriculture Development at Sasol

Purpose of Job

• The Manager BtW Agriculture Development is responsible for leading comprehensive land access initiatives and agricultural development programs that support Sasol employees and beneficiaries of the Iphepe programme. This role integrates responsibilities across land acquisition and compliance, infrastructure development, farmer support, market linkage, and sustainable agricultural practices. The manager will drive strategies that promote access to land, funding, farm inputs, mentorship, and markets, while ensuring legal, regulatory, and environmental compliance. The role also includes managing agricultural hubs, model farms, leasing entities, and supporting aggregation and export initiatives to improve farmer livelihoods and project impact.

Key Accountabilities
Key Responsibilities:

Agricultural Development & Farmer Empowerment

• Training for new farmers joining the Iphepe programme and ongoing training for existing beneficiaries.
• Design and implement programs that facilitate access to funding, inputs, and mentorship.
• Develop and manage farmer extension services, including on-site support and training in sustainable practices, pest control, and crop management.
• Promote sustainable agricultural techniques aligned with climate resilience, environmental stewardship, and agroecology.
• Represent Sasol on approved agriculture platforms and forums.

Land Access and Management

• Identify and secure suitable land for agricultural purposes through acquisition, leasing, or partnerships.
• Manage all land-related contracts and documentation, ensuring legal compliance with property rights, land tenure laws, and Sasol policies.
• Support beneficiaries and farmers in navigating land access, leasing negotiations, and land title processes.
• Engage landowners, communities, and government stakeholders to resolve land disputes where possible and secure long-term access on behalf of farmers in the Iphepe programme.

Market Access & Export Development

• Facilitate connections between farmers and buyers (local, national, and international), improving price negotiation and market readiness.
• Guide farmers through export procedures, certifications, and participation in trade fairs and exhibitions.
• Implement aggregation models that allow smallholder farmers to pool produce to meet volume and quality requirements of larger buyers.

Infrastructure Development & Resource Support

• Identify and manage infrastructure development projects such as irrigation, roads, and energy systems, in collaboration with partners and internal teams.
• Coordinate with financial institutions and government entities to secure funding for infrastructure and agricultural expansion.
• Establish agricultural hubs and model farms to serve as innovation centers, training grounds, and resource sharing points.

Input & Equipment Access

• Establish and manage a bulk procurement service for agricultural inputs to reduce cost and ensure consistent supply.
• Set up and manage an equipment leasing entity to provide farmers with access to affordable, well-maintained machinery.
• Partner with suppliers, logistics providers, and financial institutions to ensure timely delivery and support.

Farmer Mentorship & Capacity Building

• Develop farmer mentorship networks and peer learning platforms to promote knowledge sharing and support between experienced and emerging farmers.
• Facilitate skill development programs focused on entrepreneurial skills, financial literacy, and advanced agricultural practices.

Funding Partnerships

• Ensure the long-term sustainability and scalability of the Farmer Development Programme through the successful conclusion of strategic funding partnerships.
• Negotiate and conclude funding partnerships to improve access to finance for Iphepe farmers.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure that all land usage and agricultural activities comply with health, safety, environmental, and legal standards.
• Monitor and enforce compliance with zoning regulations, sustainability goals, and industry best practices.
• Lead efforts in environmental risk mitigation and promote environmentally responsible farming.

Project Management and Coordination

• Oversee multiple agricultural and land development projects from planning through execution and monitoring.
• Collaborate with internal departments (legal, finance, social impact, supply chain) to align efforts and ensure effective delivery.
• Manage budgets, timelines, and project quality standards.

Reporting, Monitoring, and Evaluation

• Track and report on key metrics including land access, funding utilization, farmer output, infrastructure deployment, and environmental impact.
• Maintain up-to-date data records and submit regulatory and legal reports as required.
• Continuously evaluate program impact and make data-driven recommendations for improvements.

Educational Background:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics, Land Management, Rural Development, Real Estate, Agricultural Science, Business Administration, or a related field.
• A postgraduate qualification in any of the above fields will be an advantage.

Experience:

• Minimum 9 years of experience in agricultural development, land management, extension services, infrastructure project management, or agribusiness.
• Proven experience in farmer empowerment, land acquisition processes, and managing stakeholder relationships.
• Experience in export development, equipment leasing models, or agricultural infrastructure development is highly beneficial.

Skills:

• Strong understanding of land rights, agricultural systems, leasing frameworks, and regulatory environments.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Financial literacy and experience in facilitating access to funding or managing project budgets.
• Strong organizational and multi-project management capabilities.
• In-depth knowledge of sustainable farming practices, environmental regulations, and climate adaptation strategies.