7 May 2024
By: Lebogang Mashala
Fanyana Bikwa joined the Beefmaster Group as a general worker but now supervises 325 employees as the manager of deboning production.
Early in his 16-year career at the company, Bikwa was recognised as employee of the month and quickly rose through the ranks. He was promoted to team leader then advanced to a supervisory position in 2013. In 2016, he was appointed as the manager of deboning production, a position he still holds.
Beefmaster Group is the largest private employer in Kimberley. According to Cindy Nkgoeng, the HR manager, Bikwa’s success story gives hope to residents of the area and surrounding regions who face socio-economic challenges such as poverty and high unemployment.
With the company’s support, Bikwa has become a skilled employee, having undergone training in general abattoir practice, production technology, generic management, computer literacy, food safety culture and hazard analysis critical control point.
Today he oversees and manages 325 employees, ensuring efficiency and quality control while scheduling production activities.
“When I first started as a general worker, I observed the entire procedure in the processing plant, from the arrival of the animals to the stages of deboning and dispatching the meat; it was really interesting and I wanted to learn more,” says Bikwa.
When the company recognised his interest in learning, it supported him with opportunities for professional development through training programmes, mentorship and guidance.
Bikwa says Beefmaster offered him a conducive work environment that fostered growth and advancement, enabling him to progress in his career. “Their support has been instrumental in helping me achieving a career above my aspirations,” he says.
Explaining his management style, Bikwa said he encourages open and transparent communication to ensure everyone feels heard and valued, as well as recognition for a job well done.
“I host regular team meetings that revolve around sharing clearly defined goals and values that all team members can rally around. Teamwork is valued at the company, as it teaches one how to collaborate effectively.”
His advice to workers who want to reach new heights in their jobs is to always give their best. “Remember that if you do well in your job, no matter your role, the positive impact goes beyond the workplace; it can have a significant impact on your home life and shape your family life dynamic as well.”
In 2023, Beefmaster Group allocated more than R4 million to training and development programmes, positively impacting 233 individuals in the agricultural and industrial sectors of Christiana and Kimberley.
