Agricultural Operations Manager Job Vacancy in Assab, Eritrea – Agriculture & Food Processing

Job Description

Position:Agricultural Operations Manager

Company:Nestlé Eritrea

Location:Assab, Eritrea

Experience:5+ years in agricultural operations management

Education:Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, or related field

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Agriculture & Food Processing

Department:Operations

Salary:SSP 150,000 – 250,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Nestlé Eritrea is a leading multinational in the food and beverage sector, dedicated to delivering nutrition, health, and wellness to consumers across the Horn of Africa. With a strong commitment to sustainable agriculture, Nestlé works closely with local farmers, cooperatives, and government agencies to improve crop yields, promote responsible farming practices, and enhance the economic well‑being of rural communities. Operating from its state‑of‑the‑art facilities in Assab, the company supports a wide range of products from dairy and coffee to fortified cereals, creating a robust supply chain that contributes to the nation’s food security. As part of its strategic expansion, Nestlé Eritrea continues to invest in modern technology, capacity building, and community development, making it an attractive employer for professionals seeking impactful careers in Eritrea. This role aligns with Nestlé’s vision of “Good Food, Good Life” and offers a unique platform to drive agricultural excellence while supporting the broader goals of employment in Eritrea and career opportunities in Eritrea.

Job Overview

The Agricultural Operations Manager will lead Nestlé Eritrea’s farm‑to‑factory initiatives, overseeing the entire lifecycle of raw material production, from seed selection and planting to harvesting, processing, and delivery to manufacturing sites. Reporting to the Regional Director of Operations, the manager will develop and implement strategic plans that optimize yield, ensure compliance with international quality standards, and reduce environmental impact. This position plays a critical role in strengthening Nestlé’s supply chain resilience, fostering partnerships with local growers, and advancing the company’s sustainability agenda. The role also contributes directly to the creation of new jobs in the agricultural sector, supporting the broader objective of employment in Eritrea and reinforcing Nestlé’s reputation as a top employer for Jobs in Eritrea.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute comprehensive agricultural production plans that align with Nestlé’s quality, safety, and sustainability standards.
• Manage relationships with farmer cooperatives, providing technical assistance, training, and performance monitoring.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and cost‑control measures for all agricultural activities.
• Coordinate with procurement, logistics, and manufacturing teams to ensure timely delivery of raw materials.
• Implement data‑driven monitoring systems to track crop performance, pest management, and resource utilization.
• Lead continuous improvement initiatives to increase yield, reduce waste, and enhance profitability.
• Ensure compliance with local regulations, international certifications (e.g., ISO 22000, GlobalGAP), and Nestlé’s internal policies.
• Prepare detailed reports for senior leadership on operational performance, risks, and opportunities.

Required Skills

• Strong leadership and team‑building capabilities with a focus on cross‑functional collaboration.
• Expertise in modern agronomic practices, crop science, and sustainable farming techniques.
• Proficiency in supply chain management software and data analytics tools.
• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to develop and manage multi‑million SSP budgets.
• Fluent communication in English and Arabic; knowledge of local languages is a plus.

Education

A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, Food Science, or a closely related discipline is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in sustainable agriculture, supply chain management, or agribusiness are highly desirable.

Experience

Candidates must have at least five years of progressive experience in agricultural operations, preferably within a multinational food and beverage environment. Demonstrated success in managing large‑scale farming projects, driving productivity improvements, and leading multidisciplinary teams is essential.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from SSP 150,000 to SSP 250,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based incentives, health benefits, and retirement contributions.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision.
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• Annual performance bonus tied to operational targets.
• Paid parental and family leave.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.

Training

• On‑the‑job mentorship with senior agronomy experts.
• Access to Nestlé’s global learning platform for continuous professional development.
• Opportunities to attend international conferences on sustainable agriculture.
• Leadership development workshops tailored for high‑potential managers.

Working Environment

The role is based in Assab, offering a dynamic blend of office‑based strategic planning and field‑based operational oversight. Nestlé Eritrea provides a collaborative, inclusive workplace that values diversity, innovation, and employee well‑being. Modern facilities, state‑of‑the‑art laboratories, and a supportive corporate culture ensure that employees can thrive while contributing to the nation’s agricultural growth.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the online portal at https://eritreajobsearch.com/. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Nestlé Eritrea is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of race, gender, age, religion, disability, or any other protected characteristic. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any such factor.