Daybreak Farms, a leading integrated poultry producer in South Africa, has announced the appointment of Richard Manzini as its Chief Executive Officer.
The announcement comes at a critical time as The poultry sector is currently facing challenges such as the impact of avian influenza, power supply limitations, and rising feed costs.
Manzini, a seasoned investment professional with a notable track record, brings extensive experience from his tenure at the Public Investment Corporation (PIC), one of Africa’s largest asset management firms.
Vuyelwa Matsiliza, Chairperson of Daybreak Farms, expressed confidence in Manzini’s ability to lead the company through these challenges, citing his past contributions to stability and growth in the agricultural sector.
Matsiliza emphasized the need for a strategic leader familiar with the intricacies of the South African poultry landscape and its critical role in ensuring food security.
“Manzini’s qualifications include a B.Bus.Science from the University of Cape Town, LLB from Unisa, MBA and MMFI from Wits University, and an MSc from the University of Pretoria,” he highlighted.
“His hands-on corporate farming approach, spending significant time in plants and on farms, positions him well to navigate the complexities facing Daybreak Farms.”
Addressing the company’s historical mismanagement and malfeasance, Manzini acknowledged the issues and assured stakeholders that the board was addressing them within the legal framework.
He outlined the leadership team’s focus on reshaping Daybreak Farms’ image by emphasizing quality products, ethical operations, and positioning the company as an employer of choice.
Manzini emphasized the company’s commitment to fulfilling its investment mandate and advancing transformation in the agriculture industry.
He stressed the importance of job creation, preserving employment, ensuring food security, and creating economic opportunities to alleviate poverty in host communities.
In addition, he highlighted the company’s dedication to becoming a beacon of reliability, ethical practices, and excellence in delivering quality poultry products to customers nationwide.
Daybreak Farms is an integrated poultry operation that supplies broiler farms with day-old chicks, fresh and frozen whole chickens, and portions.
The PIC’s investment facilitated the acquisition of Daybreak Farms, previously a division of Afgri, and includes established feed milling operations for an integrated supply chain of specialist feeds.
Manzini’s leadership is expected to steer the company towards sustainable growth and resilience in the face of industry challenges.
