Farm Business Analyst - Financial Planning

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid leave

Professional development opportunities

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a sharp Farm Business Analyst to join the strategic team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. The role focuses on enhancing financial performance and operational efficiency for agricultural enterprises, translating complex data into actionable insights for farm managers and stakeholders.

You will build financial models, analyze farm operations, and develop data-driven recommendations to guide investments and growth in the Eastern Cape region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in an agricultural economics/finance/business related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in financial or business analysis within agriculture.
• Strong understanding of farm management and agricultural economics.
• Proficient in financial modeling, data analysis and reporting tools.

Responsibilities

• Analyze farm financial statements, operational data and market trends to identify KPIs.
• Develop financial models and forecasts to support strategic decisions.
• Evaluate profitability and efficiency of various farm operations and enterprises.
• Identify cost savings, revenue generation and process improvements.
• Prepare reports and presentations on financial performance and recommendations.
• Assist in annual farm budgets and business plans.
• Conduct feasibility studies for new agricultural ventures or investments.
• Benchmark farm performance against competitors and best practices.
• Collaborate with farm managers, agronomists and finance teams to implement recommendations.
• Stay updated on agricultural policies, subsidies and their financial implications.
• Provide data-driven insights for operational and strategic planning.

Skills

Farm economics

Financial modeling

Data analysis

Business strategy

Communication skills

Presentation skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Economics, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field

Tools

Excel

SQL

Power BI

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a sharp and analytical Farm Business Analyst to join their strategic team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. This role is essential for enhancing the financial performance and operational efficiency of agricultural enterprises. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of farm economics, financial modeling, data analysis, and business strategy within the agricultural sector. You will be responsible for evaluating farm operations, identifying areas for cost reduction and revenue enhancement, and developing data-driven recommendations for business growth. This position offers a compelling opportunity to influence key business decisions and contribute to the sustainable success of agriculture in Eastern Cape. We are looking for an individual who can translate complex financial data into actionable insights for farm managers and stakeholders. Your expertise will be vital in guiding our client towards smarter, more profitable agricultural investments and operations in Port Elizabeth.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze farm financial statements, operational data, and market trends to identify key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Develop financial models and forecasts to support strategic decision-making.
• Evaluate the profitability and efficiency of various farm operations and enterprise activities.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings, revenue generation, and process improvements.
• Prepare comprehensive reports and presentations on financial performance and business recommendations.
• Assist in the development of annual farm budgets and business plans.
• Conduct feasibility studies for new agricultural ventures or investments.
• Monitor industry best practices and benchmark farm performance against competitors.
• Collaborate with farm managers, agronomists, and finance teams to implement recommendations.
• Stay updated on agricultural policies, subsidies, and their financial implications.
• Provide data-driven insights to support operational and strategic planning.
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of financial and operational data.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Agricultural Economics, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in financial analysis, business analysis, or a related role within the agricultural sector.
• Strong understanding of farm management principles and agricultural economics.
• Proficiency in financial modeling, data analysis, and reporting tools (e.g., Excel, SQL, Power BI).
• Excellent analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly.
• Knowledge of South African agricultural market dynamics.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to farm sites in the Eastern Cape region occasionally.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous annual leave and paid sick days.
• Opportunities for professional development, including relevant certifications and training programs.
• A collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment.
• Access to advanced analytical tools and resources.
• Contribution to a retirement fund.
• Potential for career advancement within the organization.
• Modern office facilities in Port Elizabeth.