Farm Business Development Manager

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

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington seeks a strategic Farm Business Development Manager to identify market opportunities, develop business plans, and expand agricultural ventures. The role requires market analysis, partnerships with suppliers and investors, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure profitable growth.

The ideal candidate holds a relevant degree, 6+ years in agricultural business development, and strong financial modeling and negotiation skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Agriculture, Agribusiness, Economics, or a related field is required.
• MBA or Master's degree is advantageous for this role.
• Minimum of 6 years in business development, strategic planning, or market analysis within agriculture.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate new market opportunities and strategic alliances in Upington.
• Conduct market research, feasibility studies, and competitive analysis.
• Develop comprehensive business plans for new ventures and expansion projects.
• Build relationships with suppliers, customers, government agencies, and investors.
• Negotiate contracts to support growth and monitor industry trends impacting agriculture.
• Collaborate with operations and finance to implement strategies and analyze financial performance.
• Represent the company at industry events and contribute to strategic direction.

Skills

Market research

Negotiation

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic planning

Financial acumen

Education

Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Agriculture, Agribusiness, Economics, or related field

MBA or Master's degree (advantageous)

Tools

Market research tools

Business planning software

Financial modeling

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a diversified agricultural group with interests in the **Upington** area, is seeking a strategic and results-oriented Farm Business Development Manager. This role is responsible for identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, expanding existing markets, and enhancing the overall profitability and sustainability of the group's agricultural ventures. The Business Development Manager will conduct market research, forge strategic partnerships, and develop business plans for new and existing agricultural projects, with a focus on innovation and market growth. This hybrid role requires a balance of strategic planning, market analysis, and collaborative engagement with stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate new market opportunities, product development potentials, and strategic alliances within the agricultural sector in and around **Upington**.


• Conduct thorough market research, feasibility studies, and competitive analysis.


• Develop comprehensive business plans and proposals for new agricultural ventures and expansion projects.


• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including suppliers, customers, government agencies, and potential investors.


• Negotiate and finalize contracts and agreements to support business growth.


• Monitor industry trends, technological advancements, and regulatory changes impacting the agricultural business.


• Collaborate with operations and finance teams to ensure the successful implementation of business strategies.


• Analyze the financial performance of business initiatives and recommend adjustments.


• Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and trade shows.


• Contribute to the overall strategic direction of the company's agricultural portfolio.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Agriculture, Agribusiness, Economics, or a related field.


• An MBA or Master's degree is advantageous.


• Minimum of 6 years of experience in business development, strategic planning, or market analysis within the agricultural industry.


• Proven track record of identifying and capitalizing on new business opportunities.


• Strong understanding of agricultural markets, value chains, and business models.


• Excellent financial acumen and experience with financial modeling and analysis.


• Exceptional negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.


• Ability to build and maintain strong professional networks.


• Experience in strategic planning and execution.


• Proficiency in market research tools and business planning software.


• Must possess a valid driver's license and be willing to travel within the **Upington** region and occasionally further afield.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical and retirement provisions, and performance-based incentives. This hybrid role provides the opportunity to shape the future of a dynamic agricultural business in the **Upington** region, with the flexibility to balance office-based strategy with on-site engagement.