Agricultural Economist

HORTGRO is a national service body for a number of horticultural industry organisations that coordinate specific activities to ensure unity with a focus on markets, production and a range of other functions. A vacancy (internal job title: Information Manager) currently exists for a highly energetic and deadline-driven individual who will be responsible for the gathering, processing, and distribution of information on production and marketing across a wide spectrum of industries and operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Maintenance of agricultural economic information systems, parameters, and time series data
• Maintenance and expansion of value chain perspectives including analysis of cost drivers
• Assisting fruit group JMF’s (Joint Marketing Forums), trade and market development initiatives and proposals
• Research and development on trade policy and legislation perspectives
• Analysis and projections regarding plantings and trends
• Handling of agricultural economic queries
• Compiling and distribution of newsletters, booklets, reports, and other relevant information
• Assisting with preparation and evaluation of whole farms plans in support of economic development activities
• Liaison with various industry stakeholders (e.g. producers, packhouses and exporters)

Requirements:

• BSc or equivalent degree with Agricultural Economics as major
• A minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in commercial or marketing environment will be advantageous
• Sound knowledge of Agricultural Economic terms and concepts
• Outstanding computer literacy in full MS Office Package
• Exceptional planning, organisational and administrative skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Deadline-driven with the ability to work under pressure
• Ability to work independently and take own initiative
• Enthusiastic, energetic, self-motivated, flexible and passionate personality

A market-related remuneration package will be negotiated with the successful candidate based on qualifications and experience.