Considering how competitive the poultry industry is, it takes dedication, commitment and some serious business acumen to stand out as South Africa’s largest independent free range chicken farming operation. With more than 75,000 free range chickens per week supplied to top retailers, select deli’s and upmarket restaurants every day, Jeanne and her team ensures that the business side of Elgin Free Range Chickens runs smoothly.
LINKA BESTER, GENERAL MANAGER
“I place complete trust in my teams as they have the best experience and knowledge to run their departments to the highest standard of quality, efficiency and performance. We come together as one unit to take Elgin Free Range Chickens into the future.”
“If I have seen further than others, it is by standing upon the shoulders of giants – Isaac Newton.”
Linka completed her BSc in Food Science, followed by a MSc in Food Science in 2008 at the University of Stellenbosch. She joined the EFRC team as New Product Developer in 2009 and was promoted to Technical Manager in 2010, heading the quality and HACCP teams. She started her studies in general management and completed the MDP program at the USB in June 2011. Linka has shown great strength and dedication and in June 2011 she was appointed as General Manager. She enjoys fine food and stays on top of all the latest trends in the food industry, both locally and internationally.
ANTOINETTE ERASMUS, ADMIN MANAGER
“The EFRC team is dynamic and energetic. We all fit together like a puzzle.”
Antoinette completed her BSc in Human Living Science at Stellenbosch University and joined the EFRC team in 2008 as an administrator. She has a passion for detail and teamwork, believes in supporting her team and giving them the opportunity to achieve things independently while giving them the support and knowledge they need. Antoinette got married in 2010, and enjoys reading and painting in her spare time.
SHANNON BENNETT, FINANCIAL MANAGER
“It is important as a leader to lead by example and treat everybody with respect and as a manager to teach, delegate and empower people so that they feel valued for their contribution. I believe that everybody should be encouraged to think with initiative and to contribute regardless of how big or small that contribution is.”
Shannon completed a degree in Political Science at Rhodes University before heading to the bright lights of London which turned out to be a great leveler in terms of worldly experience. Shannon was fortunate enough to work for some great companies that invested hugely in her and funded her CIMA. After 5 years of living abroad it was time to return home to sunny SA but Shannon took a bit of a detour and went backpacking by herself around the world; after 12 months she had visited 40 countries on 5 continents. She came home to South Africa with a changed outlook on life and a desire to invest herself and the skills and experience she has been privileged to gain. Shannon started with Elgin Free Range Chickens in November 2011 as Financial Manager, being in charge of the Finance and Human Resources departments.
MARTIN MINNIE, FACTORY MANAGER
“As a leader I involve my team in decision making processes, delegate authority, encourage participation in deciding work methods and goals. I use feedback to coach my team and develop myself.”
Martin completed his General Management studies at the University of Stellenbosch Business School in 2009 and joined the EFRC team at the end of 2010. He has also completed several other courses/workshops which includes Internal Auditing, OSHACT, Human Resources, HACCP, Hygienic design, Prerequisite Programs & Good Manufacturing Practices. Martin has been in the FMCG production environment since the beginning of his career and brings great knowledge and expertise to the EFRC team. Martin enjoys spending time with his wife and son in the beautiful Elgin Valley.
