Category Lead – Agricultural Inputs

OVK Bedryf BPK; Ladybrand; On-site; ZAR 480,000 - 720,000; Full time

Job summary

OVK Bedryf BPK is seeking an experienced product management professional to lead the agricultural inputs line, focusing on crop protection, fertiliser and seed across OVK Group branches. You will manage the product range, central stock planning and seasonal demand while coordinating suppliers for group-wide consistency.

The role requires strong knowledge of agricultural chemicals, fertilisers and seeds, with 5+ years of relevant experience.

Qualifications

• Strong practical and technical knowledge of agricultural chemicals, fertilizer and seed; preferably at least 5 years relevant experience.
• Experience in product categories, suppliers, pricing, seasonal demand planning and inventory management.
• Experience with central purchasing, supplier agreements and stock supply to an agricultural retail branch network will be a strong advantage.
• Ability to interpret product specifications, labels, registration status, application requirements and technical product documentation.
• Relevant agricultural qualification, knowledge of applicable legislation and registration requirements (including Act 36 of 1947), AS400 and relevant industry bodies will be advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Manage the daily product range, assortment and product data for crop protection, fertilizer and seed in line with the category manager’s strategy.
• Plan and place purchases for branches and relevant central stock points based on seasonal demand, minimum/maximum levels and lead times.
• Monitor stock availability, stock age, expiry dates, stockouts and excess inventory.
• Obtain and compare quotations, confirm delivery times and follow up on orders with suppliers.
• Maintain and review costs, selling prices, product specifications, registration information and supplier data in conjunction with administration.
• Coordinate new product lines, phase-outs, product training and promotional information, taking applicable product and safety requirements into account.
• Support branches and marketers with product selection, technical enquiries, seasonal planning and customer quotations.
• Coordinate supplier claims, returns and credit notes with the Purchasing Assistant.
• Submit weekly exception reports and monthly performance reports to the Purchasing Manager.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Service orientation

Interpersonal collaboration

Education

Relevant agricultural qualification

AS400 knowledge

Industry body knowledge

Job description

OVK Bedryf BPK is seeking an experienced product management professional to lead the agricultural inputs line, focusing on crop protection, fertiliser and seed across OVK Group branches. You will manage the product range, central stock planning and seasonal demand while coordinating suppliers for group-wide consistency.

The role requires strong knowledge of agricultural chemicals, fertilisers and seeds, with 5+ years of relevant experience.