Company: Diggersrest Timber Company

Managing Forester (HOD) (Diggersrest)

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Managing Forester (HOD) (Diggersrest)

Location: Limpopo and South Africa
Sector: Forestry
Contract Type: Permanent

Managing Forester (HOD)

Diggersrest Timber Company situated in Tzaneen, Limpopo, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Managing Forester to Head the Department (HOD) and oversee all aspects of our forestry management and timber plantations. The Head Forester will play a critical role in ensuring sustainable forest practices, maximizing timber yield, and managing a team of foresters and contractors. This role requires someone with strong leadership, technical expertise in forestry (especially in eucalyptus) and a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Key Functions as Managing Forester:

Forest Management

  • Develop and implement sustainable forest management plans.
  • Oversee operations including planting, thinning, pruning, harvesting, and regeneration.
  • Monitor forest health, including pest and disease control, ensuring regulatory compliance.
  • Optimize forest growth and yield while maintaining biodiversity and ecological integrity.

Team Leadership & Development

  • Lead, mentor, and manage a team of foresters, technicians, and forestry workers.
  • Coordinate training and development programs for the forestry team to enhance operational efficiency.

Operational Planning & Logistics

  • Plan and manage timber harvesting schedules with a focus on environmental impact minimization.
  • Oversee logistics related to timber extraction, transportation, and delivery.
  • Collaborate with contractors, suppliers, and key stakeholders to ensure efficient operations.

Sustainability & Compliance

  • Ensure all forestry activities comply with local, national, and international environmental and safety standards.
  • Implement and monitor sustainable forestry practices.
  • Maintain certifications such as FSC and PEFC, ensuring adherence to industry standards.

Budgeting & Resource Management

  • Develop and manage the annual forestry budget, ensuring cost-effective operations.
  • Monitor and report on financial performance, ensuring profitability without compromising sustainability.

Stakeholder Engagement

  • Build and maintain relationships with community stakeholders, government agencies, environmental  organizations, and customers.
  • Ensure Diggersrest has a positive social and environmental impact in the region.

Required Skills and Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Forestry (or equivalent qualification).
  • Minimum of 10 years’ experience in forestry management, including at least 5 years in a leadership role.
  • Fire protection experience with a minimum Fire Boss Level 2 qualification.
  • In-depth knowledge of forest planning, silviculture, and timber harvesting practices.
  • Strong leadership, team-building, and mentoring abilities.
  • Excellent project management and organizational skills.
  • Sound understanding of environmental legislation and forest certification systems (FSC, PEFC).
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
  • High proficiency in Microforest.
  • Knowledge of GIS mapping.
  • Valid driver’s license.
  • Must be in excellent health and physically fit to work in a demanding environment.

Remuneration

A highly competitive and negotiable salary package will be offered, based on qualifications and experience.

Applications close: 30 July 2025

Please note: All submitted information will be treated confidentially, and by submitting your CV, you consent to its processing for recruitment purposes.