Agronomy Sales Manager

Southern States Cooperative•Richmond, VA

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

This position involves working with Grower/Producer farm accounts, applying demonstrated sales ability to grow sales while maintaining an existing customer base. The role requires calling on existing customers as well as prospective Growers/Producers within Southern States' footprint and providing technical expertise. This position will include the sale of products and programs and is eligible for a Sales Commission Program.

Requirements

Knowledge of Crop Precision Ag programs (GPS, gridding, mapping, precision crop plans)
Able to sell the complete line of fertilizer, seed and chemicals
Able to develop sales strategies and techniques to increase sales and meet sales goals
Able to learn and present programs to Growers/Producers in group or individual settings
Effective communication, organizational and presentation skills
PC proficiency in Microsoft Office
Able to travel up to 95%, limited overnight stay

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in agronomy preferred.
A combination of training and experience may be considered in lieu of completed degree
3-5 years of Agronomic sales experience preferred
Experience with field scouting in making sound agronomic recommendations

Responsibilities

Independently calls on customers to solicit sales, handles questions about products, and makes recommendations on best practices related to our products and services.
Partners with General Manager and/or Assistant General Manager and Operations Managers to coordinate sales efforts, develop prospect lists, provide market intelligence, and coordinate product delivery schedules.
Participates in local community meetings such as grower meetings, USDA and Extension meetings, and is active on county extension boards or Ag related councils.
Provides technical assistance and related information to customers regarding best management practices. Assists customers with weed and pest identification and recommends appropriate SSC products and services.
Coordinates all resources needed to solve customer's issues and complaints. Works with Product Specialists, Buyers, Agronomist, Vendors, and corporate management staff to resolve questions and concerns. Maintains strong relationships with state land grant universities and local county extension personnel.
Uses the CRM Tool to maintain accurate customer records, prospect lists, and report weekly sales calls to both customers and prospects. Transmits weekly fieldwork reports and weekly expense voucher to General Manager.
Plans and coordinates commodity and grower meetings with current customers and prospects.
Promotes use of John Deere Financial, GrowMaster and other company programs as sales tools for building new business.
Represents the Cooperative in a professional manner by wearing approved company uniform and maintaining a neat and well-maintained vehicle.
Attends schools and training sessions on selling and servicing accounts, and staying up-to-date on industry trends and SSC products and services. Takes advantage of all available resources, including internet searches as well as other more traditional sources, to improve effectiveness.
Pursues continuing education by attending Crops Certification seminars where applicable, and may possess CDL license, and other Ag related certifications.
Performs other responsibilities and duties as assigned by supervisor.