Agricultural Economist: Market Strategy & Forecasting

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

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