Agricultural Economist - Crop Production Analysis

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Exposure to diverse agri-businesses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an accomplished Agricultural Economist for our client in Paarl, Western Cape, focusing on crop production analysis and strategic planning. You will deliver economic insights to farmers, agribusinesses, and industry stakeholders, analyzing costs, market trends, and risk management.

The role involves developing economic models, forecasts, and recommendations to optimize profitability and sustainability, informing investment decisions and policy impact assessments.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics or related quantitative field.
• 6+ years of experience in agricultural economics, financial analysis, or related consulting.
• Strong understanding of agricultural production economics, market analysis, and econometrics.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (R, Stata, SAS) and financial modeling tools (Excel).
• Excellent analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed economic analysis of crop production systems, including cost-benefit analyses and profitability assessments.
• Analyze agricultural market trends, supply and demand dynamics, and price forecasting for key commodities.
• Develop financial models and projections for agricultural enterprises and investments.
• Provide advisory on risk management strategies, including hedging and diversification.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and recommendations for clients.

Skills

Quantitative analysis

Communication

Econometrics

R/Stata/SAS

Excel modeling

Education

Master's/PhD in Agricultural Economics

Tools

R

Stata

SAS

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading agricultural consultancy firm with a significant presence in the Paarl, Western Cape , is seeking an accomplished Agricultural Economist to focus on crop production analysis and strategic planning. This role involves providing economic insights and advisory services to a diverse clientele of farmers, agricultural businesses, and industry stakeholders. The successful candidate will conduct in-depth analysis of production costs, market trends, financial performance, and risk management strategies for various crops, with a particular emphasis on the viticulture and fruit sectors prominent in the region. You will develop economic models, forecasts, and recommendations to help clients optimize profitability, enhance sustainability, and make informed investment decisions. This position requires strong quantitative skills, a comprehensive understanding of agricultural markets, and excellent communication abilities. We are looking for a strategic thinker who can translate complex economic data into actionable advice for agricultural producers. Your expertise will be crucial in guiding clients through the dynamic economic landscape of South African agriculture, particularly within the rich agricultural heartland of the Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed economic analysis of crop production systems, including cost-benefit analysis, feasibility studies, and profitability assessments.
• Analyze agricultural market trends, supply and demand dynamics, and price forecasting for key commodities.
• Develop financial models and projections for agricultural enterprises, assisting with business planning and investment decisions.
• Provide advice on risk management strategies, including hedging, insurance, and diversification.
• Evaluate the economic impact of agricultural policies, regulations, and environmental changes.
• Prepare comprehensive reports, presentations, and recommendations for clients.
• Collaborate with agronomists and other technical specialists to integrate economic insights with practical farm management.
• Stay current with economic research, agricultural economics literature, and industry developments.
• Assist clients in accessing financing and grants for agricultural projects.
• Contribute to the development of new consulting services and methodologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics, Economics, Finance, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in agricultural economics, financial analysis, or related consulting.
• Strong understanding of agricultural production economics, market analysis, and econometrics.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis software (e.g., R, Stata, SAS) and financial modeling tools (e.g., Excel).
• Excellent analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to explain complex economic concepts clearly.
• Experience working within the South African agricultural sector, particularly in the Western Cape , is highly advantageous.
• Knowledge of the wine and fruit industries would be a significant asset.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple client projects simultaneously.
• Valid driver's license.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Performance-based bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and conferences.
• Exposure to a wide range of agricultural businesses and sectors.
• A dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment.
• Potential for career advancement within a leading consultancy firm.