Agricultural Economist - Market Analysis & Strategy

Placements24; Kimberley; Hybrid; CAD 60,000 - 77,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Agricultural Economist to provide data-driven insights into market trends, economic viability, and strategic planning for member farms and the cooperative. The role combines remote data analysis with on-site consultations in Kimberley.

The ideal candidate has a Master's in a related quantitative field, 6+ years of experience, and strong skills in econometrics, modeling, and policy analysis. Travel for on-site meetings is expected.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Agricultural Economics or related quantitative field.
• 6+ years of experience in agricultural economics, market analysis, or economic consulting.
• Strong capability in quantitative analysis, econometrics and modeling.
• Proficiency with data analysis tools (R, Stata, SPSS, advanced Excel).
• Solid understanding of South Africa's agricultural markets and policy environments.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• Willingness to travel for on-site meetings and consultations.

Responsibilities

• Analyzing agricultural market data: supply, demand, pricing, and trade flows.
• Developing economic models and forecasts for commodity prices and outputs.
• Evaluating economic feasibility of new projects and investments.
• Providing strategic advice on market access, risk management and business development.
• Conducting cost-benefit analyses for proposed agricultural initiatives.
• Preparing economic reports and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Monitoring relevant agricultural policies and their economic impact.
• Advising on resource allocation and production strategies for farms.

Skills

Quantitative analysis

Econometrics

Data analysis

Forecasting

Report writing

Education

Master's degree in Agricultural Economics / Economics / Finance

Tools

R

Stata

SPSS

Excel (advanced)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural cooperative in Kimberley, Northern Cape, is seeking a highly analytical Agricultural Economist. This role is pivotal in providing data-driven insights into market trends, economic viability, and strategic planning for agricultural operations. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement, combining remote data analysis and report generation with on-site consultations and strategic meetings. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of agricultural markets, economic principles, and quantitative analysis techniques. You will be responsible for conducting market research, forecasting commodity prices, evaluating investment opportunities, and advising on policy and strategic decisions to enhance the economic performance of member farms and the cooperative as a whole. This is a critical role for shaping the economic future of agriculture in the Northern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyzing agricultural market data, including supply, demand, pricing, and trade flows.
• Developing economic models and forecasts for commodity prices and agricultural output.
• Evaluating the economic feasibility of new agricultural projects and investments.
• Providing strategic advice on market access, risk management, and business development.
• Conducting cost-benefit analyses for proposed agricultural initiatives.
• Preparing comprehensive economic reports and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Monitoring relevant agricultural policies and their potential economic impact.
• Advising on optimal resource allocation and production strategies for farms.
• Staying informed about global and local agricultural economic trends.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Agricultural Economics, Economics, Finance, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in agricultural economics, market analysis, or economic consulting.
• Proven expertise in quantitative analysis, statistical modeling, and econometrics.
• Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., R, Stata, SPSS, Excel with advanced functions).
• Strong understanding of agricultural markets, supply chains, and policy environments in South Africa.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
• Familiarity with the agricultural sector in the Northern Cape is advantageous.
• Willingness to travel for on-site meetings and consultations.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and professional development opportunities. You will be part of a leading agricultural cooperative committed to supporting its members and fostering economic growth in the Northern Cape. This hybrid role provides flexibility, allowing you to contribute strategically through remote analysis and on-site engagement in Kimberley. Make a significant impact on agricultural economics and strategy in the region.