Agricultural Economist - Market Analysis

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Hybrid work arrangement

Health & retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch seeks an experienced Agricultural Economist to lead market analysis for agricultural commodities and investment opportunities in the Stellenbosch wine region and broader agricultural sector. You will build econometric models, forecast price movements, assess project viability, and deliver clear actionable recommendations to investment teams in a hybrid work setting.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in Agricultural Economics and 5+ years in market analysis

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Agricultural Economics or related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years in market analysis, economic consulting, or financial analysis within agriculture.
• Strong understanding of microeconomics and econometrics and agricultural markets.
• Proficiency in statistical software and data analysis techniques and ability to present complex data clearly.

Responsibilities

• Conduct market research and analysis for agricultural commodities and sectors.
• Develop econometric models to forecast prices, supply, and demand.
• Evaluate financial feasibility and economic impact of investment projects.
• Monitor global and regional policy developments and their market implications.
• Prepare market intelligence reports, presentations and assessments.
• Collaborate with investment teams to support due diligence.

Skills

Analytical skills

Quantitative analysis

Communication

Independent work

Education

Master's or PhD in Agricultural Economics

Tools

Stata

EViews

R

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural investment firm based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, is seeking a skilled Agricultural Economist specializing in Market Analysis. This role is pivotal in providing strategic insights into agricultural markets, commodities, and investment opportunities. You will be responsible for conducting in-depth research, analyzing market trends, forecasting price movements, and evaluating economic viability of agricultural projects. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of agricultural economics, and the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable recommendations for investment decisions within the Stellenbosch wine region and broader agricultural sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive market research and analysis for various agricultural commodities and sectors.
• Develop economic models to forecast commodity prices, supply, and demand dynamics.
• Evaluate the financial feasibility and economic impact of agricultural investment projects.
• Monitor global and regional agricultural policy developments and their market implications.
• Prepare detailed market intelligence reports, presentations, and economic assessments.
• Identify emerging market trends, risks, and opportunities within the agricultural landscape.
• Collaborate with investment teams to support due diligence processes.
• Maintain relationships with industry stakeholders, data providers, and research institutions.
• Utilize econometric software and statistical tools for economic modeling and analysis.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Agricultural Economics, Economics, Finance, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in market analysis, economic consulting, or financial analysis within the agricultural sector.
• Strong understanding of microeconomics, econometrics, and agricultural markets.
• Proficiency in statistical software (e.g., Stata, EViews, R) and data analysis techniques.
• Excellent research, analytical, and quantitative skills.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information effectively.
• Experience in financial modeling and investment appraisal is highly desirable.
• Ability to work independently and contribute to a collaborative team environment in a hybrid setting, supporting operations near Stellenbosch, Western Cape.
• Knowledge of the wine industry or other specific agricultural sectors is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and bonus structure linked to market insights and investment performance.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• Generous paid time off and professional development opportunities.
• Access to advanced market data and research tools.
• Opportunity to influence strategic investment decisions in a dynamic industry.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for exceptional candidates.
• Work in a beautiful and economically significant region for agriculture.