Daybreak Farms, one of South Africa’s leading integrated poultry producers, has appointed seasoned investment professional Richard Manzini as its chief executive. The announcement comes at a critical juncture for the poultry sector, grappling with challenges such as the devastating impacts of avian influenza, limited power supply, and escalating feed costs.
Chairperson of Daybreak Farms, Vuyelwa Matsiliza, expressed confidence in Manzini, citing his impressive track record in driving key investments in the agricultural landscape. Manzini, formerly associated with the Public Investment Corporation (PIC), brings with him a wealth of experience from one of the world’s most successful asset management firms, and the largest in Africa.
“Mr Manzini is the perfect fit for the role, having contributed to significant stability and growth in the sector in the recent past,” said Matsiliza. She emphasised the need for a strategic leader with a deep understanding of the South African poultry landscape and its vital role in ensuring food security.
Looking to the future
Manzini, known for his resilience and strategic acumen, holds qualifications including 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. His corporate farming approach, spending significant time in plants and on farms, positions him well to navigate the challenges facing Daybreak Farms.
Addressing the company’s current image marred by historical mismanagement and malfeasance, Manzini acknowledged the issues and assured stakeholders that the board is addressing them within the legal framework. He outlined the leadership team’s focus on positioning Daybreak Farms as a reliable partner, emphasising quality products, ethical operations, and becoming an employer of choice.
“Our priority is to fulfil our investment mandate, advancing transformation in the agriculture industry,” noted Manzini. He stressed the importance of job creation, preserving employment, ensuring food security, and creating economic opportunities to alleviate poverty in host communities.
A beacon of reliability
Manzini highlighted the commitment to embedding Daybreak Farms in the sector as a beacon of reliability, ethical practices, and excellence in delivering quality products to customers nationwide.
Daybreak Farms is an integrated poultry operation, supplying 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 encompasses established feed milling operations for an integrated supply chain of specialist feeds.
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