About Company
Sappi is a global diversified woodfibre company focused on dissolving pulp, speciality cellulose, paper, and packaging solutions. With a rich history spanning over 80 years, Sappi is committed to driving sustainable growth through innovation and responsible resource management. Operating across four continents, we are a leading producer of sustainable woodfibre products, crucial for a wide array of everyday items. In South Africa, particularly in the Mpumalanga region where Sabie is situated, Sappi holds a significant footprint in sustainable forestry, managing vast plantations and ensuring the long-term health and productivity of our natural resources. We pride ourselves on our commitment to environmental stewardship, community development, and fostering a safe, inclusive, and empowering work environment for our more than 12,000 employees worldwide. Join Sappi and be part of a team that is shaping the future of renewable resources.
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Job Description
Are you an experienced and passionate horticultural professional with a green thumb and a natural flair for leadership? Sappi, a global leader in sustainable woodfibre solutions, invites you to join our dynamic team in Sabie, Mpumalanga, as a Nursery Manager for Tree Seedlings. This is a pivotal role that sits at the very heart of our sustainable forestry operations, directly impacting the future growth and regeneration of our vast timber resources. As the Nursery Manager, you will be entrusted with the comprehensive oversight and strategic direction of our state-of-the-art tree seedling nursery. Your expertise will be crucial in ensuring the production of high-quality, healthy seedlings that are vital for Sappi’s reforestation programmes and overall timber supply chain.
You will be responsible for managing all aspects of the nursery’s daily operations, from seed sowing and propagation to irrigation, fertilization, pest and disease control, and seedling dispatch. This requires a deep understanding of plant physiology, soil science, and environmental management practices. A significant part of your role will involve leading, mentoring, and developing a dedicated team of nursery staff, fostering a culture of excellence, safety, and continuous improvement. You will implement and monitor stringent quality control measures to guarantee that every seedling meets Sappi’s rigorous standards, contributing directly to the long-term success and sustainability of our plantations.
Beyond the day-to-day operational management, you will also play a key role in budget formulation and adherence, ensuring cost-effective production without compromising on quality. The successful candidate will be expected to explore and implement innovative nursery technologies and best practices to enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and improve seedling survival rates. Collaboration with our forestry planning and operations teams will be essential to align nursery production schedules with planting demands, ensuring a seamless flow from the nursery to the forest. This role offers an unparalleled opportunity to make a tangible impact on the environment, contribute to a global company’s sustainability goals, and grow your career within a supportive and forward-thinking organization committed to responsible resource management. If you are ready to cultivate not just seedlings, but also a thriving career, we encourage you to apply.
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Key Responsibilities
- Manage and oversee all daily operations of a commercial tree seedling nursery, including propagation, irrigation, fertilization, and pest/disease management.
- Lead, motivate, train, and develop a team of nursery staff, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to safety protocols.
- Develop and implement robust quality control measures to ensure high-quality, healthy seedling production that meets Sappi's forestry standards.
- Prepare and manage nursery budgets, ensuring cost-effective production and resource allocation.
- Maintain accurate records of seedling production, inventory, dispatch, and operational metrics.
- Research and implement innovative nursery technologies and sustainable practices to enhance efficiency and environmental performance.
- Ensure strict compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Collaborate closely with forestry planning and operations teams to align seedling production with reforestation schedules.
- Conduct regular inspections and analysis of seedling health and growth, implementing corrective actions as necessary.
Required Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Forestry, Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in nursery management, with a focus on tree seedlings or commercial propagation.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with a track record of developing staff.
- In-depth knowledge of plant physiology, pathology, soil science, and pest management.
- Demonstrable experience in budget management and operational planning.
- Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications
- Postgraduate qualification in a relevant field.
- Experience with large-scale commercial forestry nurseries.
- Familiarity with forestry certification standards (e.g., FSC, PEFC).
- Proficiency in nursery management software or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
- Knowledge of indigenous tree species propagation techniques.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package with performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive medical aid benefits.
- Company provident/pension fund.
- Generous annual leave and sick leave policy.
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth within a global company.
- Access to Sappi's employee wellness programs.
- A supportive and collaborative work environment committed to safety and sustainability.
- Relocation assistance for qualifying candidates (if applicable).
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to apply directly through Sappi’s official careers portal. Please ensure your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this role are attached. Click on the link below to apply for the job.
