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.