Farm Business Consultant - Crop & Livestock Integration

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 64,000 - 97,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel reimbursement

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid working arrangement

Reputable consultancy firm

Impactful projects in Queenstown andES

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Farm Business Consultant to advise farmers in integrating crop and livestock operations. The role mixes on-site farm visits with remote analysis, focusing on efficiency, sustainability, and profitability across the Eastern Cape farming landscape.

Candidates should hold a Bachelor's or Master's in Agriculture or related field, with at least four years in farm management or agricultural consulting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Agriculture or a related field.
• 4+ years of experience in farm management or agricultural consulting.
• Strong knowledge of crop production and livestock management.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and financial acumen.

Responsibilities

• Conduct assessments of farm operations including crop production, livestock management, and financial performance.
• Develop integrated farm management plans balancing crop and livestock systems for efficiency and sustainability.
• Advise on soil management, crop rotation and nutrient cycling within integrated systems.
• Provide guidance on livestock feed management, health and welfare to maximize productivity and minimize impact.
• Analyze farm financial data to identify profitability drivers and cost-saving opportunities.
• Assist farmers in developing business plans and accessing funding or support programs.
• Stay updated on innovations in integrated crop-livestock farming systems.
• Deliver training and workshops to farmers on integrated farming topics.
• Maintain strong client relationships with ongoing support and follow-up.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations summarizing findings and recommendations.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Financial acumen

Communication skills

Presentation skills

Interpersonal skills

Willingness to travel

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Business, Agronomy, Animal Science, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural advisory firm, is seeking a skilled Farm Business Consultant to join their team, serving clients in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, ZA. This role focuses on providing expert advice to farmers on integrating crop and livestock operations for enhanced efficiency, sustainability, and profitability. You will assess farm operations, identify areas for improvement, and develop tailored strategies that optimize resource utilization and reduce environmental impact. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of both crop science and animal husbandry, combined with excellent analytical and client management skills. This position offers a dynamic blend of on-site farm visits and remote analysis, contributing significantly to the resilience and success of the agriculture & forestry sector in the Eastern Cape. Your insights will help farmers navigate complex operational challenges and capitalize on integrated farming opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of existing farm operations, including crop production, livestock management, and financial performance.
• Develop integrated farm management plans that balance crop and livestock systems for optimal resource efficiency and sustainability.
• Advise farmers on best practices for soil management, crop rotation, and nutrient cycling within integrated systems.
• Provide guidance on livestock feed management, health, and welfare to maximize productivity and minimize environmental impact.
• Analyze farm financial data to identify profitability drivers and areas for cost reduction.
• Assist farmers in developing business plans and accessing relevant funding or support programs.
• Stay updated on innovations and best practices in integrated crop-livestock farming systems.
• Deliver training and workshops to farmers on topics related to integrated farming.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, providing ongoing support and follow-up.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations summarizing findings and recommendations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Business, Agronomy, Animal Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in farm management, agricultural consulting, or a similar advisory role, with a focus on integrated systems.
• Strong knowledge of both crop production principles and livestock management practices.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and financial acumen.
• Proven ability to develop practical and effective farm management strategies.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively, balancing field visits with remote work.
• Familiarity with the agricultural landscape and challenges in the Eastern Cape is advantageous.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to client farms in and around Queenstown.
• A passion for promoting sustainable and profitable agriculture & forestry practices.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive contractor rate with potential for long-term engagement, plus reimbursement for travel expenses.
• This role provides significant professional development opportunities through exposure to diverse farm operations and ongoing training.
• You will be part of a reputable consultancy firm known for its expertise in sustainable agriculture.
• The hybrid model allows for flexibility, combining client interaction with focused analytical work.
• Employees contribute to impactful projects that support the agricultural community in Queenstown and the broader Eastern Cape region, fostering resilience and innovation in the agriculture & forestry sector.