Loadshedding, high fuel prices, and disease management. These are just some of the everyday challenges that Andre Bergh, General Manager of Feedlot and Farms at Beefmaster Group, must navigate to ensure the smooth running of one of South Africa’s largest beef producers. The Group’s feedlot is based in Christiana in the North West.
“It is not easy managing farms and feedlots under sometimes trying conditions that are outside of our control. However, as with any business one must keep up with trends to be competitive in the market,” says Andre, who remains determined to stay ahead of the challenges and focus on the task at hand.
He adds that – considering the current environment – there are constantly new challenges that need to be addressed and solutions that need to be sought. “Our business consists of a lot of different facets that move every day. It is my job to make sure we find fast solutions to the problems that arise.”
In his position as General Manager, Andre’s day to day tasks centre on everything to do with feedlots and farms. This includes finances, strategic management and future planning.
“I am however focused on efficiencies and to make Beefmaster the best it can be. This means that I research new technology and strategy while keeping the basic principles of feeding and management at the highest standard.”
Andre started his journey with a degree at the University of the Free State. At the time when he was appointed as a Junior Section Manager at Beefmaster Group in 2005, he was mostly interested in nutrition. He soon learned that nutrition has a lot more than just what you feed cattle. In 2015 he was appointed as feedlot manager. His focus shifted from this to management. In this role he oversaw daily operations of feed yards, provided knowledge and support for heard nutrition, marketing, and environmental conditions for livestock in feedlots. In 2023 he was promoted to his current position. He has been at Beefmaster Group for more than fifteen years.
Throughout his career, Andre has undergone extensive training in various aspects of agriculture, including feedlot nutrition in the USA and international standards such as ISO 22 000. The company has also provided him with ample opportunities to further his career and education.
For young individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in farming or feedlot management, Andre advises setting clear goals and working hard to achieve them. He also suggests applying for work at businesses that can offer opportunities for career advancement.
But more than anything, says Andre, to have a career in this line of work, you need heart.
“If you want to get into this business, the most important skill you will need is human relations. My job has a lot more to do with people than implementation. The job needs patience, and understanding of people,” concludes Andre.
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