At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead potato supply management and support growers with agronomic expertise.
- Company: Join a leading agricultural company focused on sustainability and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Be part of a team that values diversity and equal opportunity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the agricultural sector while working with cutting-edge practices.
- Qualifications: B.Sc. in Agriculture or related field, with 5+ years of industry experience.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Duties & Responsibilities
We're looking for a Regional Agronomy Manager to join our team in Prospecton. The successful incumbent will be responsible for the management of the commercial potato supply in relation to negotiations, contracting, supply co-ordination and potato supply chain management for KZN (including commercial potato transport and storage) within the required AOP framework. This entails potato supply and demand balance management, regular monitoring of crop cycles, identification of supply risks, management of the regional agronomist team and driving solutions to cover supply risks.
In addition, KZN is to aim to become a self-sufficient hub where seed from G0 to commercial is to be managed within this role, determined by commercial demand over PSP. To provide Agronomic leadership and technical growing support to Simba potato growers. Roll out revised agricultural best practices to new and existing growers to support IPS product design. Responsible for production information capturing (SmartAgro), volume forecasting and the successful integration of new PepsiCo proprietary varieties within the BU's agronomy productivity agenda.
Manage the commercial potato supply programme in accordance with the production needs of the Prospecton factory. Manage the seed pipeline in KZN, in accordance with Prospecton PSP, under the guidance of the Technical Services Manager. Manage negotiations and contracting of commercial and seed potato supplier agreements; including transport.
Manage the KZN commercial potato supply to ensure the following:
- The efficient flow of timeous crop information.
- The timeous execution of delivery contracts (coordination of planting & harvesting).
- The accurate and timeous capturing of supporting crop data through the SmartAgro system.
Manage KZN seed potato supply, in conjunction with the Technical Services Manager, to ensure the following:
- Seed planning from G0 – G4, based on the PSP volume requirements of the Prospecton factory.
- The timeous execution of delivery contracts (coordination of planting & harvesting).
- Accurate pipeline management to minimize seed requirements from external regions.
- The accurate and timeous capturing of supporting crop data through the SmartAgro system.
Maintain accurate weekly, monthly and annual potato supply plans for the KZN factory. Review supply balances, evaluate risks (e.g. processing plant stock levels, demand, weather, crop availability, quality loss, etc.) and cause of change on a regular basis (daily/weekly/monthly). Work with planning team to understand demand and capacity developments for short and medium term supply (e.g. outsourcing projects, promotional activity, capacity changes, etc.) and provide input from potato supply.
Manage any mandates for spot purchasing / out-of-contract procurement of potatoes for contingency purposes. Support the Agro BU Lead with productivity target execution, supplier development, price and volume negotiations, and supplier performance reviews through KPI reporting, feedback and meetings.
Responsible for educating growers on latest agronomic practices that drive best in class potato quality (lower defects, higher solids), increased yields, reduce foreign objects, inspects and recommend farmer washing/grading operations and equipment. Develop, implement and maintain good handling practices for potatoes to ensure high quality potatoes from storage to the factory.
Provide Simba growers with best in class, specialist agronomic support to deliver improved potato quality, monitor crop performance (SmartAgro) and implement sustainable improvements across all Simba growers and growing regions. Provide regional Agro management with monthly commercial crop volume estimates compared to contracted volumes, forecast crop losses where it occurs, and/or identify potential supply risks in order to effectively plan for "short/over-supply" for commercial contract periods.
Interact with plant schedulers regularly, potato laboratory when needed, FLM's and Operations Managers where needed to facilitate effective management of the potato supply chain from farm to production. Facilitate the successful integration of new potato varieties into SA Program (identify suitable fields and areas for field trials, monitor fields and crop progress regularly, monitor crop quality, arrange plant trials and jointly collate and analyze conversion and consumer performance).
Assist Commercial Potato Supply Manager in selecting regional strategic planting areas and farmers that will minimize risk and maximize productivity. Facilitate and execute research projects (new plant materials, fertilizers and chemical, planting and irrigation practices), which will contribute positively to sustainability and productivity programs. Drive the implementation and upkeep of the emerging farmer program. Stay updated with latest/best available technology in the agricultural industry in order to be able to assist farmers in making informed decisions.
Desired Experience & Qualification
What will qualify you for the role:
- Specialist Agronomical Knowledge of Potato Crop, with emphasis on quantity and quality forecasting (Preferably B.Sc. (Agric) degree or Diploma in agriculture).
- Knowledge and experience of agricultural industry (5 + years).
- Good technical and planning skills.
- High level of computer literacy.
- Experience in the processing sector would be an advantage.
- Experience in Agronomy related food safety programs.
- Experience in Logistics would be beneficial.
PepsiCo is an Equal Opportunity Employer in line with the Employment Equity Act.
Regional Manager Prospecton in Manchester employer: Pepsico
At PepsiCo, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture. As a Perfect Store Manager, you will have the opportunity to drive impactful strategies within the savoury snacks category while collaborating with diverse teams in a fast-paced environment. We offer robust employee growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a commitment to innovation, making our location a vibrant place for professionals seeking meaningful and rewarding careers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Regional Manager Prospecton in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the agronomy and potato supply chain sectors. Attend industry events, join relevant online groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, highlight your specialist agronomical knowledge and experience in managing potato supply chains. Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past – it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a company you’re keen on, don’t wait for them to post a job. Reach out directly through our website, express your interest, and share how your skills align with their needs. It shows initiative and can put you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated with the latest trends! Keep an eye on new technologies and best practices in the agricultural industry. Being knowledgeable about innovations can give you an edge in discussions and show that you’re committed to continuous improvement.
We think you need these skills to ace Regional Manager Prospecton in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Regional Agronomy Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in potato supply chain management and agronomy. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about agronomy and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it engaging and make sure to connect your experiences with the job description.
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've improved supply chains or implemented best practices in previous roles. We love seeing results!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pepsico
✨Know Your Agronomy Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your agronomy knowledge, especially regarding potato crops. Be prepared to discuss specific techniques and best practices that can enhance yield and quality. This will show your expertise and passion for the role.
✨Understand the Supply Chain
Familiarise yourself with the entire potato supply chain, from seed management to delivery contracts. Be ready to talk about how you would manage risks and ensure a smooth flow of information and products. This demonstrates your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Regional Manager, you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, particularly in agronomy or related fields. Highlight your ability to drive solutions and support growers effectively.
✨Be Data Savvy
Since the role involves using systems like SmartAgro for data capturing and forecasting, be prepared to discuss your experience with agricultural data management. Show how you can leverage technology to improve productivity and decision-making in the supply chain.
