Agricultural Economist - Market Analysis and Strategy

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension plan

Professional development

Travel opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein is seeking an Agricultural Economist to conduct in-depth market analysis and provide strategic economic forecasting for the agribusiness sector in South Africa. The role emphasizes quantitative modeling, policy impact assessment, and risk evaluation to guide client investment decisions and market entry strategies.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in Agricultural Economics or a related field, with at least six years of experience and strong skills in

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Agricultural Economics, Economics, Finance, or related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 6 years’ experience in agricultural economics, market analysis, or economic consulting, preferably in the agribusiness sector.
• Strong quantitative skills including econometrics, statistical analysis, and financial modeling.
• Proficiency in data analysis software such as R, Stata, SPSS, or similar.
• Excellent understanding of agricultural supply chains, commodity markets, and global trade dynamics.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex economic data and translate into actionable insights.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to present complex information clearly.
• Strong project management and client relationship management skills.
• Familiarity with the Free State agricultural landscape and South African agricultural economy is valuable.

Responsibilities

• Conduct economic analysis of agricultural markets: supply, demand, pricing trends, and trade.
• Develop economic models and forecasts to predict market behavior and impacts of factors.
• Provide strategic advice on market positioning, product development, and investment opportunities.
• Analyze agricultural policies and their economic implications for producers, processors, and consumers.
• Assess financial viability and risk profiles of agricultural projects.
• Prepare research reports, presentations, and policy briefs for diverse stakeholders.
• Collaborate with teams and partners to gather data for analysis.
• Stay updated on global agricultural trends, commodity markets, and research.

Skills

Econometrics

Statistical analysis

Financial modeling

Quantitative analysis

Communication

Project management

Client relations

Education

Master's degree in Agricultural Economics or related field

PhD in Agricultural Economics or related field

Tools

R

Stata

SPSS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agribusiness consultancy, is seeking a sharp and analytical Agricultural Economist to join their team based in Bloemfontein, Free State. This role focuses on providing in-depth market analysis, strategic advice, and economic forecasting for the agricultural sector in South Africa. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of agricultural markets, supply chains, and policy impacts, combined with excellent quantitative and qualitative analytical skills. You will play a key role in advising clients on investment decisions, market entry strategies, and risk management. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the economic vitality of the agricultural industry from a strategic perspective.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive economic analysis of agricultural markets, including supply, demand, pricing trends, and international trade.
• Develop economic models and forecasts to predict market behavior and potential impacts of various factors (e.g., policy changes, weather events, technological advancements).
• Provide strategic advice to clients on market positioning, product development, and investment opportunities within the agricultural sector.
• Analyze agricultural policies and their economic implications for producers, processors, and consumers.
• Assess the financial viability and risk profiles of agricultural projects and enterprises.
• Prepare detailed research reports, presentations, and policy briefs for a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to gather data and insights for analysis.
• Stay updated on global agricultural economic trends, commodity markets, and relevant research.
• Advise clients on optimal resource allocation and farm management economics.

Requirements

• A 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, market analysis, or economic consulting, preferably within the agribusiness sector.
• Strong quantitative skills, including econometrics, statistical analysis, and financial modeling.
• Proficiency in data analysis software such as R, Stata, SPSS, or similar.
• Excellent understanding of agricultural supply chains, commodity markets, and global trade dynamics.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex economic data and translate it into actionable business insights.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Strong project management and client relationship management skills.
• Familiarity with the Free State agricultural landscape and South African agricultural economy is highly valued.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance-based incentives, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and pension, and ample opportunities for professional development and travel. This hybrid role based in Bloemfontein offers a blend of collaborative office work and independent analysis. Join a leading firm shaping the economic future of agriculture.