GENERAL MANAGER

Job description

JOB OPPORTUNITY

GENERAL MANAGER

Location: Manyonyo Irrigation Scheme, Chikankata District, Southern Province

Employment type: Full-time

Reports to: Board of Directors

ABOUT MANYONYO IRRIGATION COMPANY LIMITED

Manyonyo Irrigation Company Limited (MIC) is an agribusiness owned by 145 smallholder farmers in Chikankata District, Southern Province. The Company’s principal business is growing sugarcane for sale to Zambia Sugar Plc. MIC seeks to expand and strengthen its farming operations over time, with the long-term aim of growing from its present smallholder base into a sustainable, larger-scale commercial farming business that creates lasting value for its shareholder-farmers and the surrounding community.

POSITION PURPOSE

The General Manager will provide strategic leadership and take overall responsibility for the Company’s business, farming operations, people, finances, assets, compliance and stakeholder relationships. The role is accountable to the Board of Directors for the Company’s performance and for turning approved plans into disciplined, profitable and sustainable operations.

The appointment is intended to support an orderly leadership transition. The successful candidate will receive structured orientation and handover while taking increasing responsibility for the role.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

•     Lead the development and implementation of the Company’s strategic plans, annual work plans, budgets and growth priorities, subject to Board approval.

•     Provide overall planning, coordination and day-to-day management of sugarcane production and all related farming and business operations.

•     Ensure that production targets, crop quality standards, yields, cost controls and approved financial targets are achieved using available resources efficiently.

•     Provide strong financial stewardship, including oversight of budgeting, cash-flow planning, expenditure, revenue, management accounts, annual financial statements, audits and statutory compliance.

•     Establish and maintain effective operational and financial controls to safeguard Company funds, crops, infrastructure, machinery, equipment, inventory and other assets.

•     Oversee the maintenance and effective use of irrigation infrastructure, roads, drainage systems, agricultural machinery, vehicles and related operational assets.

•     Lead, supervise and develop employees; set clear performance expectations; support training; and promote accountability, fairness, discipline and a productive working environment.

•     Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, health and safety requirements, workers’ compensation obligations, Company policies and Board directives.

•     Develop and maintain constructive relationships with the Board, shareholder-farmers, MAWAUSA, Zambia Sugar Plc, suppliers, contractors, banks, regulators, government institutions, employees and other stakeholders.

•     Identify and pursue responsible opportunities for farm expansion, improved productivity, financing, diversification and stronger commercial performance.

•     Ensure that complete and accurate operational, financial, employee and corporate records are maintained and that timely financial and narrative reports are submitted to the Board.

•     Implement Board resolutions, keep the Board properly informed of material risks and developments, and undertake other relevant duties assigned by the Board.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

•     A Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Development Studies, Business Administration or another relevant field from a recognized institution.

•     A proven record of successfully managing an agricultural, agribusiness or comparable commercial operation at senior or general-management level.

•     Strong business acumen and practical experience in strategic planning, financial management, budgeting and operational control.

•     Strong experience in leading employees and managing farming operations, assets, suppliers, customers and other stakeholders.

•     Knowledge of commercial agriculture, irrigation or sugarcane production will be a strong advantage; experience working with smallholder farmers will also be an advantage.

•     Strong written and verbal communication skills, sound judgment, computer literacy and the ability to prepare clear reports for a Board of Directors.

•     A valid driver’s license will be an advantage.

•     High standards of integrity, accountability, fairness and confidentiality.

•     Proficiency in English and willingness to work and reside in the Manyonyo/Chikankata area.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should submit one PDF document containing an application letter, a detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV), copies of relevant academic and professional qualifications, a copy of the applicant’s National Registration Card (NRC), and contact details for three traceable professional referees. Applications should be emailed to man.irrigation@yahoo.co.uk.

Email subject: APPLICATION – GENERAL MANAGER

Closing date: 30 September 2026

MIC is an equal opportunity employer. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.