About Company
GWK Ltd is a leading agribusiness in South Africa, deeply rooted in the Northern Cape’s agricultural landscape. For over a century, GWK has been a trusted partner to farmers, providing comprehensive agricultural solutions, from input supply and grain marketing to financing and expert advice. Our commitment to sustainable farming practices, innovation, and community development has cemented our reputation as a vital contributor to food security and economic growth in the region. At GWK, we believe in nurturing talent and fostering an environment where our employees can thrive, contributing to our collective success and the prosperity of our agricultural community. We are constantly expanding our reach and enhancing our services to meet the evolving needs of the agricultural sector, driven by a passion for excellence and a deep respect for the land and its people. Our operations span various commodities, including grains, oilseeds, cotton, and significantly, livestock. We play a crucial role in connecting livestock producers with markets, ensuring fair trade and supporting the livelihoods of countless farmers. Joining GWK means becoming part of a legacy of agricultural leadership and a future of innovation.
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Job Description
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Livestock Buyer/Trader to join our dynamic team in the Windsorton area of the Northern Cape. This pivotal role involves identifying, procuring, and trading various types of livestock (cattle, sheep, goats) from local farmers and suppliers, ensuring optimal quality, fair pricing, and compliance with all relevant agricultural regulations. The successful candidate will be a critical link between livestock producers and our market channels, building strong relationships, conducting on-site assessments, and negotiating deals that benefit both GWK and our farming partners. You will be responsible for market analysis, staying abreast of industry trends, and making informed decisions that contribute to the profitability and sustainability of our livestock division. This role requires a blend of hands-on farm experience, sharp business acumen, and excellent interpersonal skills to navigate the complexities of the agricultural supply chain. You will work in a hybrid model, balancing field visits and farmer engagement with strategic planning and administrative duties at our local office or designated hub. This is an exciting opportunity for a proactive individual with a deep understanding of the livestock industry to make a significant impact within a respected and established agribusiness, contributing to the agricultural prosperity of the Northern Cape.
Key Responsibilities
- Source and purchase livestock (cattle, sheep, goats) directly from farmers and other suppliers in the Northern Cape region.
- Conduct on-site inspections and assessments of livestock quality, health, and market readiness.
- Negotiate purchase prices and terms, ensuring competitive deals for GWK while fostering strong relationships with suppliers.
- Monitor market trends, supply and demand, and pricing fluctuations to inform purchasing strategies.
- Manage logistics for livestock collection and transportation, ensuring animal welfare and compliance with transport regulations.
- Maintain accurate records of all transactions, inventory, and supplier information.
- Develop and expand a network of reliable livestock suppliers and buyers.
- Ensure all trading activities comply with national agricultural regulations, animal health standards, and company policies.
- Provide market insights and feedback to the internal team to optimize trading strategies.
- Identify new business opportunities within the livestock sector.
- Prepare regular reports on buying activities, market performance, and supplier engagement.
Required Skills
- Proven experience as a Livestock Buyer, Trader, or in a similar agricultural procurement role.
- In-depth knowledge of various livestock breeds, their characteristics, health, and market values.
- Strong negotiation and sales skills with a proven track record of successful deal-making.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build and maintain strong relationships with farmers and stakeholders.
- Ability to conduct accurate on-site livestock assessments.
- Proficiency in market analysis and understanding of supply chain dynamics.
- Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively within the Northern Cape.
- Basic computer literacy (MS Office, data entry).
- High level of integrity, ethical conduct, and commitment to animal welfare.
Preferred Qualifications
- A relevant tertiary qualification in Agriculture, Animal Science, Business, or a related field.
- Established network of livestock producers and traders in the Northern Cape.
- Experience with agricultural software or CRM systems.
- Familiarity with South African agricultural legislation and industry standards.
- Fluency in Afrikaans and English is highly advantageous for regional communication.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package based on experience and performance.
- Performance-based incentives and bonuses.
- Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund contributions.
- Company vehicle for business travel.
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth within a large agribusiness.
- Access to industry-leading training and resources.
- A supportive work environment that values expertise and dedication.
- Contribution to a vital sector of the South African economy.
How to Apply
If you possess the passion for agriculture and the expertise in livestock trading that we are looking for, we invite you to apply. Please click on the link below to submit your detailed CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates your understanding of the Northern Cape livestock market.
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