Kim Hein

With over twenty years of managing farms in the agricultural sector and over 10 years experience in real world UAV (drone) crop spraying (herbicides, pesticides and growth regulators), as well as UAV operations management and custom UAV platform RnD. Previously represented Midlands South Pest and Disease committee as chairman, responsible for IPM for the Beaumont area as well as herbicides practices. I am passionate about finding innovative and sustainable solutions to the challenges faced by farmers and consumers. As the Operations Manager for SwarmOps, I work with a diverse and talented team to develop and implement new technologies, practices, and products that enhance crop production, quality, and profitability, while reducing environmental impact and waste. I also collaborate with external partners, such as research institutions, government agencies, and industry associations, to share best practices and advocate for the interests of the farming community. Prior to joining SwarmOps, I was the Operations manager for QRS as well as a Managing Director at Heinville Farming, where I oversaw the daily operations, IPM (integrated pest management, Herbicides strategy, Harvest planning and estimations, financial performance, and strategic direction of a large and successful mixed farming enterprise. I have extensive skills and knowledge in farm management, crop production, and agricultural development, and I am always eager to learn new things and explore new opportunities. From 2015 I pioneered UAV crop spraying in the South African sugar industry, trained as an instructor with XAG in china and specialized forwarding UAV crop spraying in agriculture. Further more, I have vast experience in building custom automated solutions for agriculture, especially using Ardupilot. I am motivated by the vision of creating a more resilient, efficient, and responsible agricultural system that meets the needs and expectations of current and future generations.