Market Development Lead - Southern Alberta

at  Simplot

Simplot Canada (II) Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of the J.R. Simplot Company. The J.R. Simplot Company is a diverse, privately held organization, with roots firmly planted in agriculture and agriculture-related businesses. The J.R. Simplot Company is a true farm-to-table company with operations that touch every aspect of agriculture, including seed production, farming and ranching, plant sciences, fertilizer manufacturing, food processing, commercial product development, and distribution.
Summary – This position leads and drives demand for new products with Simplot Grower Solutions staff and customers, leads Simplot Grower Solutions agPROVE program, and seeks out emerging markets to incorporate into Simplot Grower Solutions product and service offerings. The ideal candidate will have a natural skill and passion for sales along with a complementary background in Agronomy.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture. A 2-year Agriculture diploma and extensive industry experience will be considered.
• A minimum of 7 years combined experience in an Agriculture-related field with focus on Agronomy and Sales required.
• Applicants must be registered or need to become registered with the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists.
• Demonstrated computer skills in Microsoft Office.
• Valid Class 5 driver’s license.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Research and Product Development Lead

• Lead and drive demand for new products. Initial focus will be on proprietary brands, and emerging market products.
• Responsible for achieving key performance indicators, including sales and growth targets.
• Partner with our Sales Representatives to grow the Proprietary Brands business through a defined plan and consistent communication with assigned accounts.
• Responsible for the sales of Proprietary Brands through demand creation efforts.
• Partner with WinField United MDM to influence Sales Representatives by coaching and training them to lead product information meetings, Agronomy Clinics, and Field Trial meetings.
• Identify new and emerging markets and work with the Agronomy Manager to position Simplot Grower Solutions within these markets.
• Oversee development of all agronomy summer tours, winter meetings and events that showcase Simplot Grower Solutions in field knowledge in cooperation with other Agronomy Leads and Agronomy Manager.
• Maintain consistent communication with the CPP Team to gain financial and product support from suppliers.
• Work closely with Marketing to plan promotions to ensure strong brand presence and farmers attendance at events.

Area Sales & Agronomy Support

• Work closely with the Agronomy Manager and Agronomy Leads to coordinate the AgProve Trial Program.
• Support our ACE’s and Agronomists in planning, planting, spraying, harvesting, and hosting events at Canola Showcase Plot locations.
• Support Sales Representatives when needed to setup, harvest, and promote AgProve field trials.
• Support the Agronomy Lead by participating in development of an Agronomy training plan for each Area team.
• Keep current on industry trends and technology – transfer this knowledge to both Sales Representatives and customers.
• Collaborate with Agronomy Leads to develop check-lists for Sales Representatives to ensure consistent and effective in field demonstrations and trials.
• Be open, available, and approachable
• Work with Sales Representatives one on one to develop approach methods and techniques for Winfield United Performance brands and emerging market products.
• Set aside time for joint farm meetings with Sales Representatives.
• Participate in school and community education programs.
• Identify profit opportunities for Agronomy /product programs.
• Evaluate sales numbers with a focus on new emerging markets.
• Support customers and supplier partners through prompt and detailed investigation of product inquiries specific to Winfield United performance brands and emerging market products.

Industry Liaison

• Communicate with designated representatives for manufactures and distributors.
• Learn and upgrade knowledge of new products and product updates on chemical, fertilizer, and seed as required.
• Maintain strong working knowledge of key industry people and competitors.

Simplot Grower Solutions Member

• Be an active supporter and contributor to the communities we serve.
• Contribute to and maintain a positive attitude in the workplace.
• Keep and maintain confidentiality of all customers, staff and suppliers and Simplot Grower Solutions business.
• Read Simplot Grower Solutions Company Policies and OH&S Manual, including annual updates.
• Help with any special projects as required.
• Be familiar with and live the values that are defined by the Simplot Grower Solutions.
• Continually develop leadership and business skills.
• Approve, attend and contribute to community activities when appropriate.
• Set, maintain, and live high ethical and moral standards.
• Pleasantly greet customers and suppliers.
• Fill in for all roles when needed with appropriate skills and talents.
• Support safety practices and initiatives as set by safety officer and ensure safe driving habits.
• Maintain and tidy up office and yard.
• Demonstrate respect and courtesy for all staff, customers, suppliers, and community.

EXPECTATIONS IN ADDITION TO ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Interact well with customers, suppliers, employees, and all levels of management.
• Create and present interesting, informative, and educational product presentations.
• Work effectively in a remote environment, while also maintaining a collaborative virtual team relationship.
• Participate in field research trials, capture accurate data, and showcase Simplot Grower Solutions attributes
• Professionalism among Area Agronomists