Apr 28, 2009

Ag Communications - Managing Supervisor, Texas

A friend forwarded this listing on to me and I thought it was worth sharing! What a great opportunity to work in a very important capacity with a great company. Public relations on a global level - talk about an opportunity to influence! Grab this job before someone else does!

Overview: Fleishman-Hillard Inc. (FH), distinguished in 2007 by the Holmes Report as the “Best Large Agency to Work For,” is a leading global public relations agency. We are widely recognized for excellent client service and a strong company culture founded on teamwork, integrity, and personal commitment. We operate throughout North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East, South Africa, and Latin America through our 80 offices.

Fleishman-Hillard has an immediate opportunity for a seasoned communications practitioner with knowledge of and a passion for implementing communication plans for livestock, agriculture, and food clients to join its downtown Dallas office as part of the food and agribusiness practice.

Responsibilities: The Managing Supervisor plays a pivotal role in handling many of the day-to-day logistics for the account team by driving and managing public relations strategies for a variety of clients in the agriculture and food industry. Responsibilities include working with more senior members of the team to manage projects and clients, and create budgets and forecasts. Client work includes copy development and day to day project management in producer communications, grassroots outreach, issues management, policy support, public education programs, and national, trade, and online media relations. The majority of the group’s efforts focus on creating credible, unique ways to make agricultural practices and issues relevant to a consumer audience.

Qualifications: The ideal candidate will be a very organized and creative self-starter, and have a minimum of 6-10 years of experience gained in public relations, journalism or a similar field. Experience specifically related to developing and implementing public relations programs addressing production agriculture or food issues management is required.

In addition, this individual should have: • An agricultural background with experience throughout the food chain - the ability to communicate to farmers, as well as knowledge of consumer communications. The ideal candidate would also have relationships with influencers in associations and companies throughout the food chain. • Agricultural chemicals, biotechnology, livestock, or issues management experience is a plus. • Versatile, persuasive writing skills and experience developing high-quality written materials, including communications plans, client correspondence, and media communications. A demonstrated ability to communicate scientific ideas in a way that is understandable to the general public is an asset. • Strong strategic thinking and planning skills, with a proven track record in messaging and positioning. • Proven track record of outstanding client counseling, including strategic thinking, verbal, and writing skills. • Demonstrated experience in planning and executing results-oriented communications programs, and providing high-quality service to demanding clients. • Excellent project management skills - ability to manage a wide variety of projects, prioritize work load, consistently meet deadlines, adapt to changing client needs, and direct junior staff as needed • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint • Degree in agriculture, journalism, public relations, marketing, or related field

Fleishman-Hillard’s reputation for quality, creativity, and results is the foundation of our distinguished status in the industry. We offer a competitive salary and superb benefits including medical/dental/vision, life/disability insurance, paid holidays, and a 401(k) plan with a significant company match.

Fleishman-Hillard is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. M/F/D/V.

To apply to this job - visit this website:

Apr 27, 2009

Contract Compliance Manager - MN

Contract Compliance Manager - Golden Valley, MN - 1189

Role Purpose –

The Contract Compliance Manager is responsible for coordinating the company’s compliance with its third party contracts and in particular licensing agreements. The role is also responsible for implementing a compliance program for ensuring that Syngenta’s trait and germplasm licensees are in compliance with Syngenta’s contracts. This includes establishment of audit procedures for reports and financial payments, trait stewardship and quality control (requires interaction with SQC personnel). This person will be responsible for establishing processes and documentation for compliance and audit procedures. The Manager will also link with the finance and audit, trait stewardship, compliance and regulatory teams. The objective will be to establish the program in NAFTA and extend to other regions such as LATAM, EAME and APAC. The person will need to stay current on key contractual terms and conditions, changing quality and/or stewardship procedures, and will be responsible for developing and rolling out educational programs to the business.

Accountabilities –

• Dimensions
• Financial Scope: No direct budget management but demonstrate good fiscal responsibility in managing costs.
• People responsibility: None directly, some supervision and direction of administrative staff required.

• Organization and Management: 
• Manage all aspects of contract compliance throughout the Seeds NAFTA organization.
• Ensure compliance with third party contracts.
• Establish and implement a compliance and audit program for monitoring Syngenta trait and germplasm licenses.
• Remain current on key contract terms and conditions.
• Develop and implement compliance procedures and associated documentation.
• Liase with Syngenta Trait Stewardship and Regulatory Compliance teams to establish monitoring program for Syngenta licensed traits and Syngenta’s traits licensed by third parties.
• Bring to the attention of and coordinate with Legal and Licensing team any compliance discrepancies as required.
• Review, make update and implement changes / enhancements / automation of compliance procedures.
• Develop and implement contract compliance training and learning materials. 

• Legal and Fiscal:
• Ensure that all processes and procedures are in compliance with Syngenta legal and corporate standards
• Ensure that Syngenta’s reputation and Corporate Social Responsibility position is enhanced and promoted at all times.
• Work closely with LIPL colleagues on a proactive, value adding basis

Knowledge, Experience & Capabilities

Critical Knowledge:

• Ability to thoroughly understand contract terms and conditions. 
• Knowledge of compliance programs and audit techniques and procedures. 
• Financial expertise in monitoring contract related royalty and other payments. 
• Knowledge of the seed and GM traits business


Critical Experience:

• Business, Technical, and / or Finance degree.
• Experience with development and implementation of financial audit procedures or contract compliance programs. 
• Project management experience. 
• Licensing or other contract related experience would be beneficial. 
• Familiarity with seeds germplasm and traits development, production and sale would also be beneficial

Critical Technical, Professional and Personal Capabilities:

• Project and process management skills are essential. 
• Ability to handle multiple and shifting priorities without losing focus is necessary. 
• Able to communicate effectively with top management and line staff, alike, in both verbal and written form and strong interpersonal skills.
• Personal computer skills in Microsoft Office required and advanced skills with excel, word and access would be beneficial

Critical Leadership Capabilities:


• Strong networker, capable of operating successfully in an informal environment and across a matrix organization.
• Track record of successful and flexible problem solving and project delivery.
• Previous professional experience with biotech traits, product development, supply management, or product evaluation beneficial but not absolutely required

Syngenta Core Competencies:


• Decisive
• Trusted
• Customer-Focused
• Results-Oriented
• Communicative
• Team-Oriented
• Innovative 
• Performance Orientation: Understanding of key performance drivers. Seizes opportunities to improve business performance. 
• Customer Orientation: Builds up networks with customers and stakeholders. Introduces hard customer satisfaction measures.
• Change Orientation: Not accept current, initial situations or first options. Evidence of continuous improvement and development. 
• Leadership: High integrity, openness and transparency. Checks progress, confronts problems directly. 
• Organization Effectiveness: Develops networks across the organization. Good grasp of reality for the front line. 
• Strategic Ability: Creates, shares vision for leading global position. Builds, communicates and implements strategy successfully

Other Behaviors Critical for the role: 
• Positive Mental Attitude. Ability to communicate complicated issues in an easy to understand and concise method. Self-starter, who is high-energy, motivated, enthusiastic with an outgoing, can-do attitude. Ability to work in a fast paced, growing environment. Built to strive for better, faster and value adding. Strong Interpersonal Relationship Skills - able to interface at all levels of the organization and build trust. Solid decision-making, prioritization, and problem solving skills. Assertive but flexible and diplomatic. Personal commitment to quality services with a customer service mindset. Disciplined and results oriented with a strong work ethic

Additional Information

Some travel will be required. All applicants must be eligible to work in the US.

Syngenta offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including market-based pay, health/dental insurance, a generous 401(k) program, paid time off, tuition reimbursement and relocation assistance.

Qualified candidates should apply today! Please submit your application online at HYPERLINK "http://www.syngentacareers.com" www.syngentacareers.com EOE.

Application Specialist - North Carolina

Application Specialist – Greensboro, NC – 976

Role Purpose –

To provide application support with major seed companies and distributors. 
To provide technical expertise on the fitness of ST formulations for the market. This would include all handling characteristics such as flow ability, compatibility, plant ability, seed storage stability, and dust-off and then scaling up the application practices to seed company acceptance levels. Work with third party suppliers of polymers, inoculants and adjuvants for evaluation and potential for inclusion into Syngenta application systems. Responsible for stage II trial treating of ST products requiring the use of a GLP laboratory.

Accountabilities –

• Testing of ST formulations and ensures performance for all handling characteristics.
• Ensure compatibility of ST formulations with new and existing co-products.
• Provide oversight on treating all Stage II trial. 
• Support ST Account Rep. on ST equipment.
• Jointly work with ST Account Reps in Seed Company trial plant runs.
• Technical support for all application parameters to field sales.
• Provide expertise on sourcing and developing equipment, polymers and colorants.
• Incorporate internal knowledge with business direction and write application guidelines for customer use
•Provide internal and external training around best application practices.
• Liaise with customers regarding improvements to formulations and packaging

Knowledge, experience & capabilities –
Critical knowledge 
• Understanding of ST equipment.
• Knowledge of Seed and Seed Treatment Industry.
• Knowledge of Seed Company Plant Operation, Seed Quality Assurance and ST application.
• Technical expertise in testing and evaluating fit of ST products for all handling characteristics

Critical experience 
• Seed company plant operations.
• Seed Quality Assurance.
• ST Application.

Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities 
• BS degree, preferably in Ag engineering
• Mechanical aptitude for the equipment and plant operations.
• Communication skills for interactions with seed companies and account reps. 
• Technical ability to design and conduct ST handling characteristic testing

• Mechanical aptitude for the equipment and plant operations.
• Communication skills for interactions with seed companies and account reps. 
• Technical ability to design and conduct ST handling characteristic testing

Critical Success Factors and Key Challenges:

• Develop a standardized approach for testing new ST formulations with interaction from Development, Formulations, Marketing, Sales, and Packaging.
• Recommendation on how to handle the colorant, polymer, and equipment side of the ST business.
• Complete documentation of application trials and prepare user guidelines for Avicta applications to corn.
• Provide hands for product stewardship of Avicta Corn launch.
• Initiates assessment process for best SOP for application quality studies

Additional Information: • All applicants must be eligible to work in the US.
Syngenta offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including market-based pay, health/dental insurance, a generous 401(k) program, paid time off, tuition reimbursement and relocation assistance.
Qualified candidates should apply today! Please submit your application online at HYPERLINK "http://www.syngentacareers.com" www.syngentacareers.com EOE.

Business Marketing Specialist - MN

Business Marketing Specialist – Glyndon, MN – 1220

Role Purpose –

• Participates in the development and implementation of the operational Marketing Plans under the leadership of the Head of Sales & Marketing and in close collaboration with the area sales teams, supply chain and the crop financial controller.
• Prepare, compile and archive business information data and organize its communication within the sales & marketing teams.

Accountabilities –

• Supports the Head of Sales & Marketing in the development and continuous up-dates of the crop strategic plan.
• Responsible for competitor and market information and dynamics. Identifies trends and anticipates potential threats/opportunities for our crop business.
• Contributes to decision making platforms as needed.
• Supports the Head of Sales & Marketing in crop marketing processes, i.e. pricing, product positioning, administration of dealer and grower agreements and programs (discounts, bookings, etc), business reporting calendar (contractual obligations with business partners), etc.
Implements tactical marketing support (advertising, promotion, sales sheets, dealer/grower events, trade shows, radio ads, etc.) and monitors, supports and follow-up the compliance of the area sales teams and the customer service with the actions stipulated in the marketing and crop strategic plan. Prepare and consolidate forecasts and business plans for submission to the Head of Sales & Marketing. Organize communication and re-distribution of these with the area sales teams once they have been finalized and validated by the Head of Sales & Marketing and the crop management.
• Develop, support and maintain the Hilleshög web site to make it an active and efficient marketing tool supporting the annual crop plan and crop strategy.
• Implement, develop, support and maintain the Hilleshög NAFTA team space.
• Share general business and crop information with the rest of the team and other Syngenta Seeds teams.
• Conducts customer support meetings.

Knowledge, experience & capabilities –
Critical knowledge



• Bachelor’s degree in marketing or related agronomic field. • Agricultural based marketing experience. Sales experience in the agronomic field is a plus. • Good knowledge of the seeds industry • Knowledge of breeding/research technologies.

Critical experience 
• Minimum 3 to 5 years of proven track record in commercial or marketing function in the agriculture business • Minimum 3 years agronomic field experience required. • Experience in a multi-crop organization. 

Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities 
• Proven track record of successful marketing. • Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. Solid editing experience. • Extremely organized with the ability to prioritize and multi-task. • Strong project management skills. • Computer expert: PowerPoint, Excel, Word, web site management,… • Commercial sense • Team player • Work collaboratively with downstream efforts. • Ability to successfully present new concepts to management and colleagues. • Ability to promote positive interaction internally and externally • Ability to learn new skills • Ability to teach new skills and practices • Professionalism • Ability to interact with people in a respectful, cooperative but assertive manner resulting in the achievement of program and company goals. • Effectively and efficiently manage within the budgetary boundaries • Set and maintain high work standards for self and those supervised for efficiency and accountability for action as performed. • Ability to work well independently and under pressure. • Creative approach and positive attitude.

Critical Success Factors and Key Challenges:
• Develop fluent knowledge of organization and product. • Assess, implement, and execute business strategies relating to product marketing. • Proactive professional working relationships with global and regional business partners. • Ability to develop external, third party relationships that enhance our business products and opportunities in the traditional business and downstream activities. • Ability to demonstrate value to sales via the use of tactical marketing tools and support. • Demonstrate increased crop profitability potential by capturing value traditionally and/or through innovative downstream activities.

Additional Information:
• All applicants must be eligible to work in the US.

Syngenta offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including market-based pay, health/dental insurance, a generous 401(k) program, paid time off, tuition reimbursement and relocation assistance.

Qualified candidates should apply today! Please submit your application online at HYPERLINK "http://www.syngentacareers.com" www.syngentacareers.com EOE.

Apr 22, 2009

Animal Science Instructor - Community College

Agriculture Department at Ridgewater College—Willmar Campus

The college invites applications for a full-time unlimited Agriculture Instructor to begin July 27, 2009. We are looking for a candidate with a strong livestock background and agribusiness experience. Courses may include Animal Science, Animal Nutrition, Beef Management, Swine Management, Introduction to Agbusiness, and Credit and Finance.

Minimum Qualifications: Must have a minimum of two-years post-secondary education appropriate to credential requested, 6000 hours of occupational experience and one year work experience shall be within the last five years. A Bachelor degree in agricultural education, animal science, agricultural economics or technical agriculture and 4000 hours of occupational experience is preferred.

Refer to MnSCU Credential Guidelines (License Code #010100) for complete details at www.cfc.mnscu.edu
. View complete job posting at www.ridgewater.edu. Salary based upon education and experience.

To apply please send: A letter of introduction addressing qualifications, a current resume, a list of three professional references with contact information, a completed Ridgewater College Unclassified Application Form (found online at www.ridgewater.edu
click on Employment), and copies of transcripts and certifications/licenses (originals will be required upon hire) to: Jane Bohlsen, Human Resources Office, PO Box 1097, Willmar, MN 56201. (320) 222-6075 Jane.Bohlsen@ridgewater.edu APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL POSITION IS FILLED. Applicant review will begin on May 4, 2009.

Questions or inquiries can be directed to Kim Lippert at kim.lippert@ridgewater.edu
or 320-222-5272

Ridgewater College is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

A MEMBER OF THE MINNESOTA STATE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES SYSTEM A Member of HERC Higher Education Recruitment Consortium www.uppermidwestherc.org


Apr 20, 2009

Business Analyst - Chicago Area

Business Analyst – Lisle, IL - 1231

 

Role Purpose - 



The overall purpose of the position of Business Analyst is to assist the management of the Flowers Business Unit of Syngenta Seeds, Inc. in the development and implementation of innovative sales and marketing strategies to achieve defined business objectives, including market share, brand awareness, revenue and profit goal for key product lines.



This individual will design and develop reporting & analyses for measure of business key performance indicators, profit optimization, uncertainty reasoning, planning, and a variety of other decision-support and strategy creation projects including preparation, maintenance and use of databases to segment, model and analyze customer information.



Assist project teams by providing in-depth statistical and business knowledge needed to handle complex issues.  Ability to rapidly grasp critical business issues, analyze, recommend and implement solutions.



Investigate technical and software related development tools to support business reporting initiatives (e.g. strategic decision analysis planning and follow up annual and five year budget planning).  



Lead assigned projects with minimal supervision, defining project plans, setting milestones, and estimating completion dates.  



Apply financial and statistical tools (e.g. risk adjusted NPV analysis, real options analysis, market valuation analysis) to support key business initiatives, and promote cross-training to provide effective information management support to marketing, finance and sales.   



Provide financial summaries and inputs into the Seeds Financial team as needed for the development of annual, five-year and periodic financial reporting summaries.



To support future strategic business decision making, lead coordination of collection and prioritization of market research data and competitive intelligence information for the business unit.  Provide data and information to cross functional work stream teams as needed; interface and participate on cross functional teams in product development and marketing teams.  



Accountabilities - 



Provides appropriate market research to the SHS Leadership Team including industry forecasts, competitive intelligence, partner profiles, potential customer data and any other external market data and analysis required by the business.

Provide analytical and research support for project-related work such as competitive benchmarking, external and internal strategic analyses, and executive presentations.

Guide the development and implementation of the balance scorecard for Syngenta Flowers in NAFTA in support of the Syngenta Flowers Global plan. 

Work with flowers marketing and business team to define analytics requirements and measurement tools to quantify business metrics and performance indicators (market share analysis, customer conversion and cannibalism, value share models and margin analysis, optimization of customer incentive systems, business opportunity valuation)

Design and develop programs in Excel, Access, or other business statistical and modeling tools to support marketing, financial, sales, business intelligence, and product development requirements for the flowers business.

Create and code Excel and Access spreadsheets to identify:

Customer segments, through absolute and relative measures

Performance by and within segments

Lifetime value of customers by acquisition and purchase channels

Purchase behavior by brand, and channel category over a customer’s lifecycle

Impact of sales ownership and activities on the customer

Demographic and business factors influencing customer performance 

Generate reports electronically through extraction from other files and databases through Excel and Access to create and maintain analysis files.

Design and develop reporting and analytics to support the key internal clients: product & brand management, segment marketing, e-commerce & merchandising, pricing & promotions, and customer relationship management. 

Work with immediate supervisor to prepare and present insights and learnings from analyses to share with internal stakeholders.



Knowledge, Experience & Capabilities 

Critical Knowledge

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, or related areas.  MBA a plus.

Coursework in AgEconomics, Agri-Business, or Horticulture preferred.  

Proven experience in Strategic Decision Making business analytics.

Strong knowledge of Excel and Access 



Critical Experience



Advanced understanding of experimental design, sample, statistics, modeling and analyses of large data sets.  

Skilled in a broad range of quantitative methodologies   

Ability to create and adapt research methods to fit business needs.  Experienced in both business-to-business and business-to-consumer applications with heavy emphasis on business-to-business applications. 

Experience with market analysis, market segmentation, customer loyalty and value management, product/service concept testing and communications testing. 

Expert skills in Excel, Access, and other database management tools                 

Proven ability to analyze and synthesize secondary market data 

Proven independent project management skills                 

Strong analytical skills combined with ability to implement 

Detail oriented, creative and flexible 

Ability to work in a cross-functional, team environment 

Proven written and oral communication skills 

Ability to quickly understand core issues facing a business 



Critical Leadership Capabilities

Drive Results

Create Edge

Mobility



Additional Information

Travel as needed.  

Future relocation possible.

A minimum of 2 years in current position is required (requirement for internal applicants only)

All applicants must be eligible to work in the US.



Syngenta offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including market-based pay, health/dental insurance, a generous 401(k) program, paid time off, tuition reimbursement and relocation assistance.

Qualified candidates should apply today! Please submit your application online at  HYPERLINK "http://www.syngentacareers.com" www.syngentacareers.com EOE.

Apr 17, 2009

Agronomy Sales - ND

Position Title/Summary
Agronomy Sales
Recruiter's Name * Brady Lynch
Email *
Industry *
Agronomy
Company *
Management Recruiters of Sioux Falls
Where to call you. (605) 367-6939
Career Website http://www.agoodjob.com

Agronomy Sales Manager ND- Take the Next Step A very progressive retail Agronomy center in central North Dakota is currently looking for an Agronomy Manager to become "the face of the company." This company prides itself in their strides in Precision Ag/GPS. This would be a perfect opportunity for someone in Agronomy Sales that is looking to take the next step into more of a management position, although a very strong sales aptitude is important, as sales will be a key role to this position. They want someone who can �take the bull by the horns� and run with it -- it will be very hands-off. Negotiating well with the chemical companies is important, as is being able to purchase grain from the farmers. This person will be responsible for overseeing 4 people, working with the Crop Scouts, and helping with the hiring process. The right individual must be able to multi-task. This company treats its people well, and is willing to pay for the right person. This individual must have at least 1-2 years of relevant retail Agronomy experience and seed knowledge. If interested, you will need to apply quickly, as this position will not be on the market long. To Apply: Please send a confidential resume in Word format along with references to BCL@agoodjob.com Salary: $45,000-$55,000 DOE. Performance bonus, vehicle, insurance, 401k, phone, housing. If you fit the profile for this position but need a different location, don't hesitate to contact us at www.agoodjob.com. We have many other positions available. Management Recruiters of Sioux Falls, LLP works nationally and is recognized as a leader in recruiting and placing people in the AG industry. Contact: Brady Lynch Management Recruiters of Sioux Falls 116 W 69th Street Suite 200 Sioux Falls, SD BCL@agoodjob.com Compensation: From: $45,000.00 To: $55,000.00

Grain Merchandiser Guru - ND

Position Title/Summary
Grain Merchandiser
Recruiter's Name * Brady Lynch
Email *
Industry *
Agriculture
Company *
Management Recruiters of Sioux Falls
Where to call you. (605) 367-6939
Career Website http://www.agoodjob.com

Grain Merchandiser North Dakota PROFITABLE location This position is in eastern ND and the only reason that they are looking for a Grain Merchandiser is because their current Merchandiser will be moving back as a partner in the family farm. This is a very progressive independent grain operation that sits on a rail, and they also have a short line railroad to go back and forth between their 2 locations. There are a lot of positive things going on within this company and it is very possible that this person could be the beginning of more grain marketing hires in the near future, as well. They have very good relationships with their growers, as this specific company has been family-owned for many years. Like I mentioned, that with the growth of their grain department, they are flexible with hiring someone with minimal experience, or someone with a lot of experience. Compensation will depend on experience, of course, and they may be open to hiring someone a little "greener" to go along with a more experienced Merchandiser. This person will need to keep and develop relationships with grain producers, purchase grain, hedge grain purchases, manage placement of local railroad cars, manage futures, coordinate sales of grain and corn screenings, etc. Knowledge and experience in the grain business and with its origination, marketing and merchandising are �key� and this person MUST have that experience. This position will compensate fairly and they offer full benefits including insurance, 401k, vacation, etc. Pay will be somewhere between $60k-$85k depending on experience. We have many other positions in agriculture, so please email me a resume if you are experienced in the agriculture business: BCL@agoodjob.com Compensation: From: $60,000.00 To: $85,000.00 Contact: Brady Lynch Management Recruiters of Sioux Falls 116 W 69th Street Suite 200 Sioux Falls, SD BCL@agoodjob.com

Apr 16, 2009

Marketing/PR Assistants Needed in California!

This is a really good opportunity for our younger AJN Audience.  The California State Fair is in need of some marketing assistants.  Here is a chance to get some great hands on experience!  It sounds like they are looking for one lead person as well.
Head Hunters are not welcome to call about this. That should be pretty obvious.
Position Title/Summary
Marketing/PR Assistants
Recruiter's Name * Erica Manuel
Email *
Industry *
Marketing/PR
Company *
Cal Expo - California State Fair
California State Fair is hiring! Pls tell any PR/Marketing people to send me a resume. Looking for a few qualified entry-level people, as well as 1 very qualified lead person. 6 month gig. Decent pay, no benefits.
Apply To:
Application Deadline May 4, 2009

Apr 14, 2009

Next Generation Program Coordinator

Position Title/Summary
PFI Next Generation Program Coordinator
Recruiter's Name * Teresa Opheim
Email *
Industry *
Sustainable Agriculture
Company *
Practical Farmers of Iowa
Where to call you. (515) 232-5661
Career Website http://www.practicalfarmers.org

PFI Next Generation Program Coordinator Practical Farmers of Iowa is seeking a dynamic individual to join the PFI team and coordinate its Next Generation Programming. This position requires a self-starter and a team player who has an outgoing personality, organizational skills and a love of farming and farmers. Person must be flexible and adept at multi-tasking in PFI’s fast-paced office. PFI is looking for someone who will commit to making this program a success over the next three years. Knowledge of digital recording, webinars, Microsoft Office, and statistical software desirable. Eighty percent of the person’s time will be spent on the following tasks: 1. Organize, recruit participants, and run PFI’s sessions on communications between the generations; 2. Organize introductory programming on enterprises and recruit participants; 3. Link experienced farmers with newcomers through a mentoring program; 4. Develop targeted trainings on topics of interest to the beginning farmers and recruit participants; 5. Provide networking opportunities (including Field Days and electronic options) to the beginning farmers; 6. Work with PFI Communications staff to share lessons learned through the Next Generation programming. In addition, 20 percent of the person’s time will be spent providing support for PFI’s existing programming, including work on PFI’s farmer clusters and on-farm research and demonstration programming. Salary is in the low- to mid-30s. This is a full-time position that includes health insurance immediately and short-term disability insurance beginning in September, a flexplan, and 401k with employer contribution after one year. Hours are flexible, and work environment is family-friendly. Some weekend and evening work is required. Please send your resume with a cover letter to Teresa Opheim by April 27th. Email submissions or snail mail are both fine: teresa@practicalfarmers.org, 137 Lynn Ave., Suite 200, Ames, IA 50014. Practical Farmers of Iowa includes a diverse group of farmers and nonfarmers. Corn, soybeans, beef cattle, and hay are the top enterprises for PFI farmers, although many have a variety of other operations, including fruits and vegetables. PFI’s programming stresses farmer-to-farmer networking through research and demonstration, field days, conferences, and more. For more information, call 515-232-5661 or visit www.practicalfarmers.org.

Apply To:
teresa@practicalfarmers.org
Application Deadline April 27, 2009

Apr 10, 2009

Customer Account Manager - NC

There’s never been a better time to join Syngenta. Customer Account Manager – Greensboro, NC - 1166 Role Purpose – Individual partnered with the Key Account Manager focused on providing increased and proactive account coordination and communication to a specific Distribution Account. This individual will be assisted by other CC team members in the order placement and management process in meeting the needs of the account. Direct contact point provided to the central Distributor account owner in addition to direct contact points for purchasing areas Accountabilities – • Senior position within the Crop Protection Customer Center focused on delivering an enhanced and differentiated level of account management to identified strategic channel partners.
• Works as a partner with the respective Distributor Key Account Manager to deliver increased value to Syngenta and the Channel partner.
• Key focal point for Distribution Senior purchasing and logistics management on items related to account and order status and account supply planning.
• Works with other Customer Center team members to direct and manage order and shipment requirements, program implementation and reporting needs to meet both Syngenta and Distributor business needs related to the account.
• Proactively identifies and implements in coordination with the Key Account Manager areas of added value to the Distribution partner to increase sales opportunities and Syngenta loyalty.
• This individual has no additional account responsibilities. Knowledge, experience & capabilities - Critical knowledge • Clear understanding of the Syngenta commercial strategy and it’s relevance to the respective Channel partner
• Understands crop agronomics and Syngenta product positioning in marketplace. 
• Understanding of order placement, management, supply logistics and supply management 
• Working knowledge of the relevant tools required to interact and communicate effectively with the customer Critical experience • Understanding of Crop Protection industry
• Leads by example - Interpersonal awareness, positive attitude. 
• Assumes responsibility for and represents management role on business teams.
• Proactively receives processes and follows up on orders and inquires.
• Handles routine and complex situations on own Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities 
• Self starter and ability to work with minimal direct management to deliver business objectives.
• Ability to understand the respective Channel Partner strategy and effectively tie it to the Syngenta Commercial Strategy.
• Extensive knowledge and use of business tools (e.g. Pivotal, K2G, AgBiz, SAP, etc.)
• Ability to clearly communicate and listen.
• Ability to develop and idea from origin, position with the impacted parties and bring to agreement and implementation.
• Appropriate knowledge of and ability to engage internal processes and functions to fulfill customer inquiry, order and delivery requirements. (Transportation, Planning, Distribution, Technical, etc.) 
• Identifies business opportunities and develops and implements required tactics.
• Strong financial acumen. 
• Ability to effectively engage and interact with Senior Distributor and Syngenta Management.
• Ability to initiate necessary actions required to resolve issues between customer’s requirements and the ability of Syngenta to meet them. Additional Information 
• All applicants must be eligible to work in the US.
• Travel requirements 25-30%
• Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree required. Syngenta offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including market-based pay, health/dental insurance, a generous 401(k) program, paid time off, tuition reimbursement and relocation assistance. Qualified candidates should apply today! Please submit your application online at HYPERLINK "http://www.syngentacareers.com" www.syngentacareers.com EOE.

Site HSE - Quality Manager - Florida

There’s never been a better time to join Syngenta. Site HSE-Q Manager (Health, Safety and Environment, Quality)– Ft Myers, FL - 1140 Role Purpose Responsible for Health, Safety and Environmental Quality performance of the Plant Site. As part of the site management team ensure legal compliance, implementation of Syngenta HSE-Q standards and policies across the site and deliver sustained improvements in performance. Accountabilities: HSE
• Ensure site compliance with local, state and federal regulations and Syngenta requirements
• Provide direction, training and leadership for site
• Coordinate/manage HSE projects, e.g., New construction, waste disposal, air permitting and occasional environmental projects
• Responsible for site monthly and annual safety reporting.
• Creation and distribution of HSE communication documents, including response to accident investigations and safety alerts
• Develop, administer and communicate numerous site safety programs. Become site lead for these 
• Resource for HSE questions from site and corporate personnel
• Develop and maintain Intranet information
• Documentation and filing of site HSE reports, processes, SOP’s, audits etc

Quality Site Coordinator
• Ensure site compliance in regard to all aspects of the QBS
• Develop Plan Site Audit Schedules
• Work with other Managers to ensure training needs are met in regard to Quality and HSE 
• Ensure Data and Document control process are managed
• Maintain Master lists for CAPARS and Request for Variances
• Ensure that identification and traceability occurs throughout production plant
• Schedule and Facilitate Plant Management Reviews
• Ensure management of the customer complaint process
• Critical equipment Calibration Knowledge, experience & capabilities Critical knowledge Bilingual English/Spanish skills required 
• A four-year degree required. Equivalent job experience considered in absence of degree.
• Course work in safety or environmental issues preferred
• Experience in the seed industry preferred
• Knowledge of HSE regulations, e.g. OSHA, EPA, DOT
• Knowledge of ISO 9000 Quality Systems 
 Critical experience 
• A minimum of three years of HSE auditing/management experience
• Familiarity with seed/agricultural operations

Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities 
• Ability to organize and conduct a site HSE and Quality audit
• Ability to conduct risk-analyses of HSE issues
• Ability to conduct site training programs
• Ability to write, implement and become competent lead on numerous site safety programs.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to network and build networks
• Good computer skills (Microsoft Office preferred)
• Ability to manage multiple projects at one time
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Decisive
• Trusted
• Customer-Focused
• Results-Oriented
• Team-Oriented
• Innovative
• Planning and organizing
• Action-oriented with good follow-up skills
• Ability to interpret legislation as it applies to agri-business
• Ability to influence and challenge constructively. Additional Information: PHYSICAL DEMANDS OF THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Ability to travel up to 10% of the time
• May be some periods of extended computer work
• Extended walking though site, including stairs, elevated walkways, etc., while conducting audits

WORKING CONDITIONS WHILE PERFORMING ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Normal office environment
• May be exposed to heat, cold, noise and dust while performing audits and safety visits.
 Syngenta offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including market-based pay, health/dental insurance, a generous 401(k) program, paid time off, tuition reimbursement and relocation assistance. Qualified candidates should apply today! Please submit your application online at www.syngentacareers.com. EOE

Apr 7, 2009

AgJobCast with Ag1Source

Today, I spoke with Mark Waschek of Ag1Source.  They currently have five positions listed with the AJN under the Hi Octane search listing service.  If you refer a successful candidate to either of them, AJN will pay you $250!
Mark also talks about his company, and gives us some Very Valuable free advice on how to work with recruiters in the agriculture industry.  Enjoy the show.  If you'd like to subscribe in iTunes, visit http://agjobnetwork.podbean.com/ 

Apr 3, 2009

Manager of International Operations - Marketing!!!

Can anyone say, AWESOME international opportunity?  What a great position for someone looking to make a positive move.  Thanks to U.S. Grains Council for posting this with the AgJobNetwork!
Position Title/Summary
Manager of International Operations – Marketing
Recruiter's Name * Chris Corry
Email *
Industry *
Agriculture marketing
Company *
U.S. Grains Council

Washington, D.C. based international market development organization, whose mission is building global markets for America’s feed grains, is currently recruiting a Manager of International Operations - Marketing. The position supports worldwide U.S. sorghum promotion activities, responds to trade inquiries, and tracks trade issues and progress in expanding markets. Responsibilities will entail domestic and international travel of up to 30 percent of the time. QUALIFICATIONS: The candidate will have commodity marketing experience, preferably in the area of grain merchandising. Candidates will also have demonstrated cross-cultural skills acquired during a minimum of one year international activity. The ideal candidate will have experience in managing programs, including event planning. The candidate will have competence in assessing market opportunities and influencing grain users and purchasing decision-makers. University degree in a related agricultural field: agribusiness management, marketing, economics, grain science or animal science. This position will be based in Washington, DC. Send cover letter with resume by April 17, 2009 to: Personnel/Sorghum Marketing, 1400 K Street, NW, Suite 1200, Washington, D.C. 20005, or employment@grains.org. Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Equal Opportunity Employer.

Apply To:
Personnel/Sorghum Marketing
Application Deadline April 17, 2009