Summary
An agribusiness manager is any other manager who oversees the whole business from the planning, to carrying out duties and responsibilities that are needed for the business to be a successful one. The main difference is that agribusiness managers work in farms and other agriculture companies. Agribusiness managers analyze and figure out marketing strategies, hire and mentor the workers of the farm and may also perform some of the farming duties themselves. They are also responsible in planning where and how much to sell the crops and livestock.
Duties
Agribusiness managers evaluate the business and the amount of money a farm or agricultural business is raking in. They keep records of planting and harvesting times and identify when a crop or livestock is in demand. They also look after the people working in the business. Agribusiness managers coordinate and give workshops in agricultural marketing and its issues that will help in straightening out the problems that the staff is experiencing. They also prepare and develop training modules. Agribusiness managers make a database that supports their establishment in order for the farmers as well as the consumers to be well informed of the stocks that they have or are offering. They sometimes put up a website as well as a marketing strategy. It is also easier for the agribusiness’s clients to reach them and see what their business is all about. An agribusiness manager also deals and contacts exporters and logistics to be able to ship out the products being offered.
Education and Training Requirements
To become an agribusiness manager, one must acquire a master’s degree in agricultural economics, business administration, marketing, or any other related field. One must have experience in agribusiness or agribusiness development. Experience in handling a farm, or work experience in economics is a big advantage.
Knowledge and Skills Requirements
To become an agribusiness manager, one has to have good communication skills, both written and oral. One must have experience in dealing with suppliers, traders and exporters. He/she must have experience in marketing and economics, whether it be for agribusiness or not. Experience in farming, crops and livestock is also needed.
Working Conditions
An agribusiness manager usually works the standard 40 hours a week in an office or on the field. His/her work is not limited to just paper work and contacting vendors, suppliers and exporters. In small-medium scale businesses, some agribusiness managers go on the field and look out for the crops being planted – some even plant the crops themselves.
Salary
The average salary for an agribusiness manager is $46,000 annually. Their average salary is dictated by its industry and location. It differs per company. Usually, the more experience you have, the higher the salary and the more benefits you receive.
