*Must have background in Sales and Agriculture*

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

This position reports directly to the Merchandising Manager, Agri-Group of Canada.

PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVE:

Under general supervision is engaged in commodity trading activity of the Company and spearheads development of markets for commodities that may be associated with exclusive contractual agreements or through normal merchandising behaviors.  The foregoing is conducted working independently, in association with other Company resources and with external resources. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• In concert with regional management and nutritional staff, spearhead the development of existing and emerging market outlets for commodity products and related other companion products.


• Negotiate purchases of agricultural commodities and co-products and sale of same in accordance with established company practices and at margin levels representative of business plans.


• Maintain close working relationship with suppliers, transportation companies/personnel, customers and manufacturing facilities.


• Ensure input on a daily basis of purchase and sale documents.


• Participate in Company meetings, keeping sales staff current on product development opportunities and techniques as part of the overall Team selling approach.


• Maintain contact with customers in relation to their existing and potential volume for business.


• Liaise with customers to keep them current on the availability of Company products, services, outside services and new product availability.


• Keep a pulse on competitive activity and work closely with the Merchandising Manager developing strategies, sales programs and execution of same in response.


• Keep records and produce reports on all phases of activities as required.


• Participate in the search and development of business and product opportunities.


• In conjunction with field staff or independently as the situation dictates, develop new accounts by making presentations of Company programs, products and services to prospective clients. 


• Capable of utilizing sound presentation skills and knowledgeable of competitive products and services.


• Work closely with all personnel regarding areas of credit and collection.


• Communicate reported service requests and/or complaints from customers according to Company policies and procedures.


• Participate in livestock industry tradeshows and associations as is reasonable.


• Submit required cycle reports, expense accounts, etc., as dictated by Company guidelines.


• Achieve cycle and annual sales forecasts by effectively utilizing all sales tools and resources provided.


• Must possess the necessary authorization to operate a motor vehicle in the U.S.  Must possess a valid driver’s permit and maintain a safe driving record at all times which guarantees insurability by the Company.  Perform duties in a safe manner to reduce exposure to injuries or accidents, including but not limited to safe driving.


• Perform other work-related tasks as requested or required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Be able to succeed within and adhere to the culture of the Furst-McNess Company of Canada Ltd.


• Ability to perform essential job functions with or without accommodation.


• Bachelor’s degree in animal science or equivalent in related work experience.


• 2 years minimum of active merchandising or related work experience.


• Strong ruminant nutrition background.


• Working knowledge of computers and Microsoft Office products.


• Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of and the ability to sell the full line of McNess related products.


• Achievement oriented; commitment to learning; innovation.


• Display a commitment to improve performance for current position as well as future development.


• Capable of gathering information from key sources to problem solve, and achieve successful outcomes.


• Possesses a strategic business sense.


• Entrepreneurial.


• Focused to service internal and external contacts to achieve Company goals.


• Team oriented.


• Good communication skills, both oral and written, and is capable of utilizing these skills within all levels of the Company as well as externally.


• Ability to provide outstanding customer service to all associates and management staff, showing a sense of urgency relative to solving problems, performing assigned tasks, employee concerns, etc.


• Ability to effectively organize work schedules and manage multiple assignments by utilizing time management skills to ensure day-to-day assignments and special projects are completed within guidelines agreed upon.


• Ability to work as an effective team member within the operating area and company, as a whole.  Willingness to pitch in and do work that may not be a specific part of the job description for the overall good of the department and company.


• Ability to be flexible and be willing to change along with recommending changes that can enhance our ability to serve both internal and external customers more effectively and in a professional manner.  Respect other peoples’ points of view and able to take constructive criticism.


• Ability to travel, either by car or by commercial plane, including overnight stays, as business dictates.  Must, at all times, possess a valid driver’s license and maintain a good driving record (within guidelines set forth in company vehicle policy).