Agricultural Development Specialist

Boardroom Appointments; Reitz; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm seeks an experienced Agricultural Development Specialist in Reitz, Free State. The role involves establishing partnerships between commercial and developing farmers, developing business models and managing stakeholder engagement. Candidates should possess a postgraduate qualification in Development, Agriculture, and Management along with 5 years of agricultural experience. Strong analytical skills and ability to work collaboratively in teams are essential. Flexibility in hours is important to meet project deadlines.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience within the agricultural environment.
• Postgraduate qualification in Development, Agriculture, and Management is required.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Establish partnerships between commercial and new era farmers.
• Develop business models and financing strategies.
• Administer project management and proposals.
• Manage stakeholder engagement and external relations.
• Train participating commercial and developing farmers.

Skills

Relevant postgraduate qualification in Development, Agriculture, and Management.

At least 5 years of experience within the agricultural environment.

Knowledge of the practical and business side of farming.

Understanding of agricultural policy, trade issues, and sustainability.

Familiarity with the agricultural supply chain, commodity markets, and farm management practices.

Strong organizational skills.

Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Good interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.

Flexibility in work hours.

Education

Postgraduate qualification in Development, Agriculture, and Management

Job description

About the job Agricultural Development Specialist

Agricultural Development Specialist

Skills and Qualifications

• Relevant postgraduate qualification in Development, Agriculture, and Management.
• At least 5 years of experience within the agricultural environment.
• Knowledge of the practical and business side of farming.
• Understanding of agricultural policy, trade issues, and sustainability.
• Familiarity with the agricultural supply chain, commodity markets, and farm management practices.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills with keen attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to present complex information clearly and concisely.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and engage with diverse stakeholders.
• Good interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.
• Flexibility in work hours to meet project deadlines and attend stakeholder meetings.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Establish partnerships between commercial and new era farmers.
• Develop business models, plans, and financing strategies.
• Administer project management, proposals, presentations, business planning, and contracting.
• Manage external relations and stakeholder engagement.
• Train participating commercial and developing farmers.
• Conduct fieldwork and travel to agricultural sites as well as perform office-based research and analysis.
• Prepare detailed reports summarizing research findings, analyses, and recommendations for stakeholders.
• Evaluate the effects of government policies and programs on agricultural productivity and market dynamics.
• Collaborate with agricultural producers, government agencies, and other stakeholders to provide insights supporting strategic planning and decision-making.
• Stay updated on current trends and developments in agricultural economics, including market fluctuations and policy changes.
• Provide expert advice to management and stakeholders on economic issues affecting the agricultural sector.
• Conduct workshops, seminars, and training sessions for agricultural professionals on economic principles and practices.