Agricultural Economist - Market Analysis & Forecasting

Placements24; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonus

Professional development

Office in Randburg

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an analytical Agricultural Economist to conduct in-depth market research, forecast commodity prices, and provide strategic advice to clients in the agricultural sector. You will analyze market trends, policies, and macroeconomic factors shaping production and consumption.

The role requires advanced quantitative skills, proficiency in econometrics, and the ability to translate data into actionable insights for diverse clients.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Agricultural Economics or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in agricultural market analysis or economic forecasting.
• Proficiency in statistical software (R, Stata, SPSS) and econometrics.
• Strong written and verbal communication with ability to present complex data clearly.
• Experience in data visualization and presenting insights to clients.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive economic research on agricultural markets including supply, demand, pricing, and trade dynamics.
• Develop and maintain economic models for forecasting commodity prices and production levels.
• Analyze impact of policies, trade agreements, and macroeconomic factors on agriculture.
• Prepare market reports, outlooks, and strategic recommendations for clients.
• Provide expert commentary on market conditions, risks, and opportunities to clients.
• Collaborate with consultants to deliver integrated client advice.
• Utilize statistical software and databases to analyze economic data.
• Present findings through reports, presentations, and meetings.
• Stay informed on global agricultural trends and developments.

Skills

Quantitative analysis

Econometrics

Data visualization

Written communication

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Agricultural Economics

Tools

R

Stata

SPSS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent agricultural consultancy firm with operations in Randburg, Gauteng, is seeking a highly analytical Agricultural Economist. This role focuses on providing in-depth market analysis, forecasting, and strategic advice to clients within the agricultural sector. You will be responsible for researching market trends, commodity prices, trade policies, and economic factors impacting agricultural production and consumption. The ideal candidate possesses strong quantitative skills, a deep understanding of economic principles applied to agriculture, and the ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights. This position is essential for guiding clients through market volatility and identifying growth opportunities in the Randburg region and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive economic research on agricultural markets, including supply, demand, pricing, and trade dynamics.
• Develop and maintain economic models for forecasting agricultural commodity prices and production levels.
• Analyze the impact of government policies, trade agreements, and macroeconomic factors on the agricultural sector.
• Prepare detailed market reports, economic outlooks, and strategic recommendations for clients.
• Provide expert commentary and insights to clients on market conditions and potential risks and opportunities.
• Collaborate with other consultants and researchers to provide integrated advice to clients.
• Utilize statistical software and databases to gather, analyze, and interpret economic data.
• Present findings and recommendations to clients through reports, presentations, and meetings.
• Stay informed about global agricultural economic trends and developments.
• Contribute to the firm's knowledge base and service offerings in agricultural economics, supporting our Randburg office's reputation.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics, Economics, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in agricultural market analysis, economic forecasting, or related roles.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with proficiency in statistical software (e.g., R, Stata, SPSS) and econometrics.
• Excellent understanding of economic theory and its application to agricultural markets.
• Proven ability to conduct independent research and produce high-quality analytical reports.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex economic concepts clearly.
• Experience in data visualization and presentation.
• Familiarity with agricultural value chains and key commodities is advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects under tight deadlines.
• Knowledge of the South African agricultural sector is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Opportunity to work on diverse and challenging projects for leading agricultural businesses.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• Collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment.
• Contribution to strategic decision-making in the agricultural industry.
• Prime office location in Randburg.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.