Agribusiness Development Manager

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Great retirement plan

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Mahikeng, North West seeks an Agribusiness Development Manager to drive growth, forge partnerships, and shape strategic initiatives across the region. You will analyze markets, develop business plans, and guide stakeholders from farmers to financial institutions.

The role requires an MBA or related Master’s, 6+ years in agribusiness development, strong negotiation, and financial modeling. Travel within the North West is expected to support market expansion and portfolio growth.

Qualifications

• MBA or equivalent Master’s degree in Business Administration, Agribusiness Management, Economics, or related field.
• 6+ years of progressive experience in business development, strategic planning, or management within the agribusiness sector.
• Proven ability to identify and close new business opportunities and forge strategic partnerships.
• Strong understanding of agricultural value chains, market dynamics, and financial principles.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and lead cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in financial modeling and business case development.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
• Willingness to travel within the North West province and occasionally beyond.

Responsibilities

• Identify and pursue new agribusiness development opportunities.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to drive growth and market penetration.
• Foster relationships with farmers, cooperatives, government, banks, and partners.
• Conduct market research to identify trends, competition, and opportunities.
• Develop and negotiate commercial agreements and joint ventures.
• Analyze financial statements to support investment decisions.
• Oversee project implementation meeting objectives and timelines.
• Advise agribusinesses on production efficiency, market access, and finance.
• Represent the company at industry events to promote interests.
• Monitor regulatory developments impacting the sector.
• Prepare proposals and reports for senior management.
• Contribute to the strategic direction and growth of the agribusiness portfolio.

Skills

Strategic planning

Business development

Negotiation

Financial analysis

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Project management

Travel readiness

Education

MBA or related field (Agribusiness/Economics)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic force in the agricultural sector, is seeking an experienced Agribusiness Development Manager to drive growth and strategic initiatives in the Mahikeng, North West region. This role is instrumental in identifying and capitalizing on new business opportunities, forging strategic partnerships, and enhancing the market position of agricultural enterprises. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of agribusiness value chains, market trends, financial analysis, and business development strategies within the agricultural context. You will be responsible for developing and implementing business plans, managing relationships with key stakeholders, and contributing to the overall profitability and sustainability of agricultural ventures.

This position offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity for a business-minded professional to shape the future of agribusiness in the region. The role requires strong analytical skills, excellent negotiation abilities, and a proven track record in business development. You will work closely with farmers, cooperatives, input suppliers, and off-takers to create value and foster growth. The focus will be on strategic planning and execution to ensure long-term success and expansion.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate, and pursue new business development opportunities within the agribusiness sector.
• Develop and implement strategic business plans to drive growth and market penetration.
• Forge and manage strong relationships with key stakeholders, including farmers, cooperatives, government agencies, financial institutions, and corporate partners.
• Conduct market research and analysis to identify emerging trends, competitive landscapes, and potential threats/opportunities.
• Develop and negotiate commercial agreements, partnerships, and joint ventures.
• Analyze financial statements and project feasibility to support investment decisions.
• Oversee the implementation of agribusiness projects, ensuring they meet strategic objectives and timelines.
• Provide guidance and support to agricultural enterprises in areas such as production efficiency, market access, and financial management.
• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and forums to promote business interests.
• Monitor industry developments and regulatory changes affecting the agribusiness sector.
• Prepare business proposals, reports, and presentations for senior management and external partners.
• Contribute to the overall strategic direction and growth of the company's agribusiness portfolio.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA), Agribusiness Management, Economics, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of progressive experience in business development, strategic planning, or management within the agribusiness sector.
• Demonstrated success in identifying and closing new business opportunities and forging strategic partnerships.
• Strong understanding of agricultural value chains, market dynamics, and financial principles.
• Excellent analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and lead cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in financial modeling and business case development.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders in the agricultural sector.
• Willingness to travel within the North West province and occasionally beyond.
• Knowledge of the agricultural landscape in the North West region is a significant advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, comprehensive health insurance, and a robust retirement plan. This hybrid role offers a blend of strategic office-based work and essential on-site engagement with stakeholders. You will have significant autonomy and the opportunity to drive meaningful change within the agribusiness sector. Professional development opportunities, including executive training programs and industry conferences, are provided. Enjoy working in a collaborative environment with a team dedicated to agricultural innovation and economic development. The position offers a clear career path and the chance to build a strong professional network within the industry. We value work-life balance and offer flexible working arrangements within the hybrid model.