Job Description

A dynamic and progressive fresh produce marketing and processing company, specialising in supplying vegetables and fruits to retailers and for export, is looking for an Agronomist/Technical Manager.
This is a full-time, on-site role at the company, located in the East Rand, Johannesburg.
The Agronomist/Technical Manager will be focusing on managing all key technical aspects of sourced produce, from field to fork, ensuring continuity in quality of supply of key raw materials to the business. There will be substantial collaboration with external relationships, especially with the grower base, to foster along with a range of internal functions including, but not limited to, Procurement, Technical, Planning, Logistics, and Operations.
Responsibilities

• Supplier evaluation, contract negotiation, and contract management.
• Compile growing programmes in conjunction with Procurement Manager, incorporating all applicable technical aspects, in conjunction with growers/suppliers.
• Visit growers, monitor supply and adherence to specifications (QA) and food safety standards.
• Develop, manage, and implement sourcing strategies.
• Full procurement cycle responsibility and autonomy for sourcing of materials.
• Maintain awareness of market conditions and material supply issues, identifying and mitigating supply risk and communicating any pertinent information to relevant internal and external customers through proactive supplier communications.
• Engagement with seed suppliers re. cultivar development, trial plantings, evaluation of cultivars,
• Stakeholder engagement - advise and support stakeholders on business-related matters to maximize value from opportunities and supply arrangements.
• Liaise with the Head of Procurement on grower's availability reports & weekly splits/delivery issues.
• Assist the Head of Procurement with availability reports & weekly splits, supplier performance reports.
• Utilise all resources and systems available, to maintain optimal levels of inventory and ensure continuity of supply.
• Identify and qualify new suppliers to secure more cost-effective sources of supply and mitigate supply risks.

Qualifications and Experience

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Horticulture, Agronomy or Agriculture
• Must have at least 8 years' experience with liaison with growers of vegetables and/or fruit and preferably three years at management level.
• Strong affinity for all technical aspects relating to growing, harvesting, post-harvest handling etc.
• Experience in food safety, supplier evaluation, contract negotiation, and contract management.
• Strong analytical skills to analyse market trends to make informed procurement decisions.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and ERP software.

Apply online and make sure to complete the Message section with a short cover letter.