Job Description
Sunshine Seedling Services, part of the TWK Group, has the following vacancy available: Manager (Clones) at Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal.
Job Summary
This role involves the management and optimisation of the clonal propagation operation, with accountability for plant quality, production efficiency, staff performance, and compliance with nursery standards, while ensuring sustainable output aligned to operational requirements.
Responsibilities and Duties
Develop, implement, and continuously improve clonal propagation techniques including cutting, grafting, and related methods
Monitor and optimise growing conditions such as light, temperature, humidity, and irrigation to ensure successful cloning
Plan and manage propagation cycles to meet production and stock requirements
Oversee the care and maintenance of cloned plants, ensuring correct watering, nutrition, and protection throughout growth stages
Implement and manage integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to minimise pest and disease impact
Ensure consistent plant health and survival rates across all production phases
Assess plant health and growth on an ongoing basis to ensure quality standards are met
Establish, maintain, and enforce nursery quality standards for clonal plant material
Identify and address quality risks timeously to prevent production losses
Maintain accurate records of cloned plants, including species, growth stages, treatments, and performance data
Manage stock levels and plan future propagation requirements based on operational demand
Train, supervise, and manage staff involved in the clonal propagation process
Allocate and delegate tasks related to plant care, monitoring, and maintenance
Ensure workforce discipline, productivity, and adherence to operational procedures
Remain informed on developments in clonal propagation and horticultural research
Test and evaluate new cloning techniques, processes, or plant varieties to improve nursery output and quality
Qualifications and Skills
Degree or diploma in Horticulture, Agriculture, or a related field
10 years' relevant experience in clonal propagation, nursery management, or plant production environments
Strong technical knowledge of plant biology, cloning techniques, and propagation systems
Proven ability to manage and optimise growing environments
Demonstrated experience in pest management and IPM practices
Strong organisational and record-keeping skills
Proven leadership capability with experience managing operational teams
Valid driver's license (Code 08)
High sense of responsibility and accountability
Resilient, reliable, and trustworthy
Strong attention to detail and quality focus
Adaptable and innovative in problem-solving
Strong listening and communication skills
Team-oriented leadership approach
Closing Date 03 April 2026