Job Purpose
Under the direction of the Principal Director, Aquaculture Division, the Director, Farm Management and Production is responsible for developing, coordinating and managing the production programme of the Aquaculture Division. This includes production in both freshwater and mariculture facilities. Accordingly, the incumbent coordinates the operational activities of the various production units to include tilapia, mariculture species and ornamentals to ensure implementation of best practices, consistent production and good quality.
The incumbent also collaborates with the Aquatic Health Specialist and Research Officers to ensure good aquatic health by monitoring and providing information on the growth and performance of the fish stock. Additionally, the incumbent develops plans and budgets for farms/facilities and delivers training programmes targeting potential and existing persons involved in aquaculture.
Key Responsibilities
Management/Administrative
- Coordinates the development of the operational plan, work programme and work schedules for the Farm Management and Production Branch;
- Reviews work plans and directs staff in the production of aquaculture products to ensure that work is carried out as planned and in accordance with established standards;
- Prepares submission for budgetary provision in respect of the operation of the production farms;
- Collaborates with Procurement personnel to sources the materials necessary for the operations of the Branch and makes recommendations accordingly;
- Manages and deploys the material resources necessary for the daily operations of the farms;
- Identifies existing and potential problems and makes recommendations for relevant solutions;
- Organizes and coordinates meetings for the Farm Management and Production Branch, attends meetings of various levels and participates in training sessions as required.
Technical/Professional
- Develops, directs and monitors the annual activities and performance of the farming operations;
- Develops and manages the implementation of strategies to ensure smooth, safe and efficient production farm operations;
- Coordinates the activities of various production units e.g. tilapia, mariculture species and ornamentals to ensure ongoing compliance with established standards and best practices as well as consistent and good quality production;
- Ensures the collection of water samples for testing and the maintenance of records of water quality and other environmental data associated with the production of aquaculture products;
- Develops the necessary protocols to ensure the maintenance of equipment including aquaculture vessels;
- Reviews production records to ensure that complete and accurate records are maintained;
- Oversees the management and maintenance of inventory records for aquaculture products and equipment in order to ensure that supplies and materials required for production and farm management are in stock;
- Develops procedures to ensure that equipment are checked regularly and ensures that same are in good working condition;
- Ensures that production units, farm facilities and associated infrastructure e.g. plumbing infrastructure are operational, properly maintained and in good working condition;
- Develops in conjunction with the Aquatic Health Specialist protocols to ensure good aquatic health;
- Provides feedback to research and other relevant units on growth and performance of fish stocks;
- Collaborates with the Senior Research Officer to develop protocols to ensure that aquaculture products are safe for human consumption;
- Develops in conjunction with the Aquatic Health Specialist, protocols to address the quarantine and treatment of any disease outbreak at the farms;
- Ensures that the farms comply with established and accredited standards for the production of aquaculture products;
- Contributes to the determination of production costs for aquaculture products;
- Collaborates & coordinates with relevant units regarding requests for the purchase and delivery of aquaculture products and makes the necessary production arrangements; Co-ordinates with the Regional Aquaculture Extension Officer/Extension Officers regarding the delivery of aquaculture products to fish farmers;
- Prepares and submits monthly, quarterly, annual and other ad hoc reports to keep the Principal Director and other senior management staff informed of the operation and performance of the Farm Management and Production Branch.
Human Resource
- Monitors and evaluates the performance of direct reports, prepares performance appraisals and recommends corrective action where necessary to improve performance and/or attain established personal and/or organizational goals;
- Participates in the recruitment of staff for the Section;
- Recommends termination and leave in accordance with established human resource policies and procedures;
- Provides leadership and guidance to direct reports through effective planning, delegation, communication, training, mentoring and coaching;
- Ensures that the welfare and developmental needs of staff in the Section are clearly identified and addressed;
- Establishes and maintains a system that fosters a culture of teamwork, employee empowerment and commitment to the Section’s Division’s and organization’s goals.
- Performs any other related duties which may be assigned from time to time by the Principal Director, Aquaculture Division.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Competencies
Core
- Oral Communication
- Written Communication
- Problem Solving & Decision Making
- Planning and organizing
- Customer & Quality Focus
- Integrity
- Initiative
- Teamwork & Cooperation
- Interpersonal Skills
- Analytical Thinking
- Leadership
- Goal/Result Oriented
- Managing Partners
- People Management
- Managing External Relationships
Technical
- Knowledge of the operations of the Government and the NFA and its projects, programmes, organizational policies and procedures, (Local and International, Fisheries act, Staff Orders,)
- Aquaculture System Operations: Demonstrated ability to implement and manage diverse aquaculture production methodologies, ensuring optimal growth cycles and livestock health.
- Demonstrated expertise in directing end-to-end aquaculture operations, with a proven ability to optimize stock health, feed conversion ratios, and harvest yields through the application of industry-leading management practices
- Vessel Operation & Maritime Safety: Demonstrated proficiency in safe operation, maneuvering, and docking of motor-driven vessels. This includes a practical understanding of maritime navigation, emergency protocols, and routine engine maintenance to ensure operational readiness
- Aquatic Literacy: Possession of functional swimming skills and the ability to maintain personal safety in various water conditions.
- Use of Technology: Proficiency in the use of relevant computer applications (Word, Excel, etc.)
Minimum Required Qualification and Experience
- Masters Degree in the Social/Natural Sciences or related field with sound knowledge of Fisheries/Aquaculture/Natural Resources Management and Conservation
- Demonstrated experience at a management/supervisory level
- Five (5) years experience in Fisheries
OR
- Bachelor’s Degree in the Social/Natural Sciences or similar discipline
- Post Graduate Certification in Fisheries/Aquaculture/Natural Resources Management and Conservation
- Demonstrated experience at a management/supervisory level
- Five (5) years experience in Fisheries
Special Conditions Associated with the Job
- Exposed to medium stress and required to respond to challenges at very short notice
- Constant exposure to salt, wind and sun
- Working long hours in water or at sea.
- May encounter predatory aquatic animals
- Occasional lifting of heavy objects
- Moderate Travelling islandwide
- Exposed to working in volatile communities
- Moderate Overseas travel
- Exposure to harmful chemicals
Please note that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
