Agricultural Economist - Market Analysis and Forecasting

Placements24; Sandton; Presencial; ZAR 900.000 - 1.200.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development support

Competitive salary package

Dynamic work environment

Performance reviews and feedback

Generous annual leave

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Agricultural Economist for an on-site role in Sandton, Gauteng. The role focuses on market analysis, price forecasting, and strategic economic planning within the agricultural sector.

You will conduct research on market trends, policy impacts, and global trade, delivering insights to farmers, agribusinesses, and government agencies to support strategic decisions.

Formación

• Master's or PhD in Agricultural Economics, Economics, Finance, or related field with a strong quantitative focus.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in economic analysis, market research, or forecasting in agriculture.
• Proven expertise in econometrics, statistical modelling, and quantitative analysis.
• Strong understanding of agricultural markets, value chains, and international trade.
• Excellent communication, report-writing, and client-facing skills.

Responsabilidades

• Conduct market research and analysis of agricultural commodities, price trends and trade flows.
• Develop and maintain econometric models for price forecasts and market outlooks.
• Analyze impact of government policies, regulations, subsidies on agricultural markets.
• Evaluate investment opportunities and risks within the agricultural sector for clients.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and economic briefs for clients and internal use.
• Stay abreast of global agricultural economic trends and geopolitical influences.
• Provide economic expertise and strategic advice on market positioning and risk management.
• Collaborate with other consultants and subject matter experts.
• Contribute to new analytical methodologies and forecasting tools.
• Present findings at industry conferences and client meetings.

Conocimientos

Econometric modelling

Quantitative analysis

Market research

Policy analysis

Client advisory

Educación

Master's or PhD in Agricultural Economics

Herramientas

Stata

EViews

R

SAS

Descripción del empleo

About the Role Our client, a prominent agricultural consultancy firm headquartered in **Sandton, Gauteng**, is seeking an experienced Agricultural Economist to join their team. This is an on-site position where you will focus on market analysis, price forecasting, and strategic economic planning for the agricultural sector. You will be responsible for conducting in-depth research into market trends, supply and demand dynamics, policy impacts, and global agricultural trade. The insights you generate will guide clients—including farmers, agribusinesses, and government agencies—in making informed strategic and investment decisions. We are looking for a highly analytical individual with a strong understanding of economic principles as applied to agriculture, excellent research skills, and the ability to translate complex economic data into clear, actionable recommendations. Your expertise will be crucial in helping clients navigate the complexities of the agricultural marketplace and achieve their economic objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough market research and analysis of agricultural commodities, including price trends, supply and demand factors, and trade flows.
• Develop and maintain economic models for forecasting agricultural commodity prices and market outlooks.
• Analyze the impact of government policies, regulations, and subsidies on agricultural markets.
• Evaluate investment opportunities and risks within the agricultural sector for clients.
• Prepare comprehensive reports, presentations, and economic briefs for clients and internal use.
• Stay abreast of global agricultural economic trends, emerging markets, and geopolitical influences.
• Provide economic expertise and strategic advice to clients on market positioning, risk management, and business development.
• Collaborate with other consultants, analysts, and subject matter experts within the firm.
• Contribute to the development of new analytical methodologies and forecasting tools.
• Present findings and recommendations at industry conferences and client meetings.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Agricultural Economics, Economics, Finance, or a related field with a strong quantitative focus.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in economic analysis, market research, or forecasting, preferably within the agricultural sector.
• Proven expertise in econometrics, statistical modelling, and quantitative analysis techniques.
• Strong understanding of agricultural markets, value chains, and international trade.
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in economic modeling software and statistical packages (e.g., Stata, EViews, R, SAS).
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Strong client-facing skills and experience.
• Familiarity with agricultural policy analysis is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attending workshops, seminars, and relevant conferences, are supported.
• You will work in a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment with a team of experienced professionals.
• Career advancement opportunities within the firm are available for high-performing individuals.
• Regular performance reviews and feedback sessions.
• Generous annual leave and other statutory benefits are provided.
• The firm is committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture.
• Potential for bonuses based on individual and firm performance.