Field Agronomist at Intercontinental Group Ghana Limited

Summary of Role

We are searching for an experienced out-grower field agronomist. Our field agronomist will be responsible for managing a network of corn and soya bean smallholder farmers under the company’s out-grower model. The role requires the ability to coordinate and manage relationships with farmers, provide technical assistance, and ensure that crops are delivered on time and meet quality standards.

You must reside in the Northern Region and be willing to work in the northern parts of the country.

About the Role

• Identify, and recruit, smallholder farmers, to join the out-grower scheme.
• Register farmers in their respective groups who have been identified in their communities.
• Oversee and take charge of the use of the company’s machinery such as tractors, corn & soya bean shellers, etc
• Ensure registered farms have been properly ploughed
• Manage the distribution of inputs, such as seeds and fertilizers, to farmers.
• Provide technical assistance to farmers on crop production, harvest, and post-harvest management.
• Monitor all registered farms from planting to harvest, communicate regularly, clearly, and consistently with written reports on the performance of the business, and ensure comprehensive reporting from each farm.
• Liaise with the company’s operations and business development team to determine the modality on what quantity of farm produce is required as payment of the advance on input credit
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with farmers, including regular communication and site visits.
• Monitor crop production and provide feedback to farmers on their performance.
• •Ensure full recovery of credit by way produce as agreed by both parties.
• Supervise in-kind services provided by the company to farmers. Eg use of our sheller machine
• Work closely with the company's procurement team to ensure that crops are delivered on time and meet quality standards.
• Collect and analyze data on crop production and farmer performance to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies to increase the productivity and profitability of the out-grower scheme.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations related to agricultural production and marketing.

About you

• A diploma or bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Business Administration, or a related field.
• At least 2-5 years of experience in managing agricultural supply chains, preferably in an out-grower scheme.
• Previous experience working with smallholder farmers and providing crop production technical assistance.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with farmers, government officials, and other stakeholders.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent analytical abilities and the ability to use data to inform decision-making.
• Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations related to agricultural production and marketing.
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Working Conditions

• The Field Agronomist may be required to work irregular hours, including weekends and holidays, depending on the needs of the farmers and the company.
• The position may involve traveling to rural areas to meet with farmers and provide technical assistance.
• The Field Agronomist may be required to work in challenging environments, such as extreme heat or rain.