Head of Operations

About the role

Ferney Ltd is looking for an experienced Head of Operations to lead the day‑to‑day management of a 3,000‑hectare estate that combines nature conservation, agriculture, and a diverse property portfolio on the southeast coast of Mauritius. Reporting to the Head of Business Unit, you will be responsible for aligning operational performance with the estate’s long‑term strategic objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Take ultimate accountability for smooth operation of all functional areas across the estate.
• Lead, develop and performance‑manage a multidisciplinary team of approximately 70 staff covering livestock, agribusiness, conservation, land association, HR and maintenance.
• Oversee the management teams of the various business activities and ensure effective coordination.
• Manage the estate’s maintenance programme, including buildings, roads, utilities, grounds and equipment, and control the related capital‑expenditure budget.
• Administer the residential and commercial rental portfolio, handling lease renewals, rental reviews and tenant relations.
• Handle government land lease arrangements and syndic obligations for current and future residential developments.
• Hold consolidated accountability for operational P&L, lead the annual budgeting process and implement cost‑control measures.
• Collaborate with the development team during construction phases and asset transition, providing shared maintenance resources and procurement support.

Required profile

• Proven senior‑level experience in operational management of large, multi‑disciplinary organisations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop teams of 50+ employees across diverse functions.
• Strong financial acumen with full P&L responsibility.
• Experience in agriculture, property management, conservation or related sectors.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, including interaction with government bodies and tenants.

Required skills