The AGRICULTURE PRODUCTIVITY AND MARKET ENHANCEMENT PROJECT (APMEP) is a project whose objective is to contribute to economic growth and poverty reduction by ensuring food, income and nutritional security among the smallholder farm households. This is a Government project implemented by the Ministry of AgricuIture and facilitated through a loan from the African Development Bank (AfDB). The Project seeks to (i) increase agricultural production; (ii) increase market engagement of agricultural production; (iii) enhance institutional capacity of key agriculture sector players;and (iv) contribute to reduction of chronic malnutrition in participating Districts.
APMEP has facilitated the development of seven (07) irrigation schemes in selected project areas which will be managed and operated by private companies. The companies are owned by Water User Associations (VVUA) and their core activity is commercial crop farming (both irrigated and rained).
There are seven (7) companies as follows:
Lusiwasi Irrigation Company Limited: Located about 50 km North from Serenje Central Business District. Total scheme is 1,000 Ha with 656 Ha irrigable. CHISIA Irrigation Company Ltd: Located in Namafulu and Siatwinda 15 km from Mamba, Sinazongwe.Total scheme is 210 ha with 123 Ha irrigable Chibuwe Irrigation Company Limited: Located in Chipepo, Gwembe.Total scheme size is 264Ha and 178 Ha irrigable. Shikabeta Irrigation Company Limited: Located in Shikabeta (40 km from Mphanshya Mission). Total scheme size is 552Ha with 444.5Ha irrigable Malima Irrigation Company Limited: Located in Buleya Malima, Sinazongwe.Total scheme size is 248Ha with 123Ha irrigable Saasa/Mulembo/Mazembe Company Limited: Located in Serenje.Total scheme size is 602Ha with 490Ha irrigable Luombwa Irrigation Company Limited: Located in Chitambo. Total scheme size is 500Ha APMEP is presently accepting applications as GENERAL MANAGER from suitably qualified individuals to head and manage each of the seven (07) irrigation companies listed above.
This is a senior executive position requiring a highly motivated self-esteemed person who is proactive, innovative, highly practical and field based,with a drive to ensure sustained profitability of the agricultural enterprise (irrigation scheme).
Duties and Responsibilities
To develop strategic plan for the scheme that meets the share-holders’ aspirations. Prepare annual budgets and operational plans for the company including but not limited to annual production plan, investment plan, staffing plan and financial plans to be submitted to the Board of Directors for approval Plan and implement annual farming programmes including conclusion of contracts with buyers of the produce Assist the Board of Directors in developing and revising of company’s policies which promote efficiency and effectiveness in management and operational performance. Be the link between the Company and the\A/ater User Association (\NUA) Develop effective marketing strategies which maximize returns on investment and to shareholders Develop and ensure that accounting and administration systems for the company are cost effective and efficient in facilitating performance. Plan, organize and convene the statutory meetings for the Board of Directors as Board Secretary. Prepare and submit monthly result-oriented progress reports of the farming activities to the Board of Directors Identify, manage and mitigate risks as and when they occur Hold regular staff meetings and ensure that staff are taking action in accordance to the set out programmes, procedures and work plans Ensure that all company employees are well oriented and skilled in order to achieve company goals and objectives Design and implement procurement plans for farming inputs and requisites timely for all approved farming programmes Prepare staff recruitment schedules as and when need arises for approval by the Board of Directors Plan and organize farmers’ interactive meetings Develop and design new business activities and their implementation plans and submit for approval to the Board of Directors Perform any other tasks as may be assigned by the Board of Directors Reporting:
Reports to the Chairperson of the Board of Directors and other relevant designated committees of the Board.
Education and experience:
- A Diploma in Agriculture, Business Management, Business Administration or Entrepreneurship with not less than 10 years’ experience in managing commercial farming
- Degree in a field related to Agriculture, Business Management, Business Administration or Entrepreneurship with minimum 5 years of experience in managing commercial farming.
- Experience in managing out-grower schemes in a corporate entity will be an added advantage.
Job Package
An attractive market-based remuneration package and conditions of service commensurate with the qualifications and experience will be offered to the successful applicant. This is a three-year contract position, renewable depending on performance.
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