VP Crop Insurance in Aberdeen

VP Crop Insurance

Position Purpose

The primary purpose of this position is to deepen agricultural relationships, attract new customers, and deliver an exceptional customer experience.

This role focuses on the sales and service of insurance products offered through the Federal Crop Insurance Program as a representative of Plains Commerce Bank.

Key responsibilities include understanding and offering a full range of insurance products and services; such as multi-peril crop insurance, livestock revenue protection, dairy revenue protection, and supplemental insurance to enhance the customer’s relationship with the Bank.

The position requires strong consultation, sales, and negotiation skills to effectively present and sell insurance products.

Additionally, this role will engage in promotional activities aimed at attracting new clients, contacting existing customers, developing prospect lists, and soliciting new insurance and banking relationships.

Other duties, as assigned by the EVP Agri-Business Lending, will further support customer acquisition, relationship building, and retention efforts.

Primary Duties/Responsibilities

• Meet with agricultural operations to assess their specific crop insurance needs.
• Build and maintain long-term relationships with farmers, dairy operators, and other agricultural operations.
• Educate customers on the importance of crop insurance and how it protects their business.
• Develop relationships with local agricultural associations, co-ops, and other farming-related organizations to expand client base.
• Attend industry events, workshops, and training sessions to stay updated on best practices and regulatory changes.
• Advise customers on different insurance options and products that best fit their needs.
• Provide detailed information about different crop insurance policies, coverage levels, and premium rates.
• Customize policies based on agricultural operations requirements, crop type, and government programs available.
• Ensure customers understand their policies, including claim processes, deadlines, and premium payment schedules.
• Stay updated on state and federal crop insurance regulations and ensure policies comply with the Farm Bill and other applicable laws.
• Ensure all necessary documentation, such as loss reports and yield records, is completed accurately and submitted on time.
• Act as a liaison between the customer and insurance companies during the claims process.
• Provide ongoing support and advice, especially when there are changes in market conditions or government programs.
• Conduct regular follow-ups to ensure customers are satisfied with their coverage and services.
• Maintain detailed records of customers’ policies, claims, and communications.
• Ensure all data is up to date and complies with industry and regulatory standards.
• Serve as an advocate for the customer’s best interest when dealing with insurance companies or in cases of disputes.
• Handle paperwork, data entry, and policy renewals.
• Ensure timely payment of premiums and renewals of policies.
• Assist bankers with customers meetings and assessment of existing risk management practices.
• Identify potential banking prospects and work with other bank team members to build relationships.
• Complete other duties as assigned at the direction of management.

Qualities of a successful candidate include

• Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agribusiness, Business Administration, Economics or related field is required. 5+ years agricultural insurance experience is highly recommended.
• Strong ability to sell insurance products, explain coverage options, and negotiate favorable terms for clients.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to build and maintain long-term relationships with agricultural operations and agribusiness customers.
• Ability to clearly explain complex insurance concepts in plain language.
• Comfortable delivering presentations and educational seminars to agricultural operations groups and associations.
• Must have detailed knowledge of Federal Crop Insurance Program rules and regulations.
• Understanding of farming operations, crop cycles, and the unique risks faced by agricultural operations.
• Ability to assess and explain risks and advise on risk mitigation strategies.
• Must have the ability to manage one’s time to complete work according to established deadlines and have the ability to prioritize tasks to make the best use of time for high priority tasks.
• Must possess the ability to calculate figures and attention to detail is essential.
• Must be able to communicate effectively, get along with co-workers and deal with colleagues effectively and professionally.
• Must be able to multi-task and work under stress and pressure.
• General PC knowledge is required and must be able to maneuver well in the system to assist the customer with quality customer service.
• Must be punctual and maintain good attendance.
• Must be trustworthy and maintain a high level of confidentiality.

We offer a competitive benefits package that includes Medical, Dental and Vision; FSA or Dependent Care; Supplemental Accident, Hospital, or Critical Illness Plans; Employer paid Life Insurance, Short Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability; and Additional Voluntary Life Insurance Options.

Paid Vacation, Sick and Volunteer leave; 401K and Profit Sharing.

Compensation for positions is based on the specific position and may be paid in the form of an hourly wage, a semi-monthly salary, commissions, or a combination of them.

Depending on the specific position, some may be paid solely on commissions or others may include a bonus structure.

Plains Commerce Bank is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing equal employment opportunity without regard to an individual’s race, religion, color, gender, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.