JOB DESCRIPTION
This job description is a summary of essential job functions necessary for the
satisfactory performance of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made
to enable those with disabilities to perform the essential job functions. Job
functions may vary by location.
GENERAL SUMMARY
Work with Grower/Producer farm accounts and apply demonstrated sales ability to
grow sales while maintaining an existing customer base. You will call on
existing customers as well as prospective Growers/Producers throughout Southern
States' footprint and provide technical expertise and agronomic recommendations.
This position is responsible for developing customer relationships, identifying
sales opportunities, and promoting Southern States products, services, and
programs. The role combines agronomic knowledge, consultative selling, and
business development to help customers achieve their production goals while
supporting sales growth.
Compensation includes a base salary range of $48,000-$75,000 and eligibility for
participation in the Southern States Sales Commission Program. Commission
earnings, if any, are based on individual sales performance and applicable
program terms.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Independently calls on existing customers and prospective customers to
generate sales, answer questions about products, recommend solutions, and
support customer success.
Develops and maintains customer relationships to support customer retention
and sales growth.
Identifies and pursues new business opportunities within an assigned
territory.
Partners with General Manager and/or Assistant General Manager and Operations
Managers to coordinate sales efforts, develop prospect lists, provide market
intelligence, and coordinate product delivery schedules.
Participates in local community meetings such as grower meetings, USDA and
Extension meetings, and is active on county extension boards or Ag-related
councils.
Provides technical assistance and related information to customers regarding
best management practices. Assists customers with weed and pest
identification and recommends appropriate SSC products and services.
Coordinates resources needed to address customer questions, concerns, and
complaints. Works with Product Specialists, Buyers, Agronomists, Vendors, and
corporate management staff to resolve issues and provide solutions.
Maintains professional relationships with state land grant universities and
local county extension personnel.
Uses CRM tools to maintain accurate customer records, prospect lists, and
sales activity reports. Transmits required reports and expense documentation.
Plans and coordinates commodity and grower meetings with current customers
and prospects.
Promotes the use of John Deere Financial, GrowMaster, and other company
programs as tools for supporting customer relationships and sales efforts.
Represents the Cooperative in a professional manner by wearing approved
company uniform and maintaining a neat and well-maintained vehicle.
Attends schools and training sessions on selling and servicing accounts and
stays current on industry trends and SSC products and services. Utilizes
available resources to improve sales effectiveness and customer support.
Pursues continuing education by attending Crop Certification seminars where
applicable and may possess CDL license and other agriculture-related
certifications.
Performs other responsibilities and duties as assigned by supervisor.
Qualifications
EDUCATION
Bachelor's degree in Agronomy preferred. A combination of training and
experience may be considered in lieu of a completed degree.
EXPERIENCE
3-5 years of agronomic sales experience preferred.
Experience with field scouting and making sound agronomic recommendations.
Experience developing customer relationships and supporting business growth
preferred.
REQUIREMENTS
Knowledge of Crop Precision Ag programs (GPS, gridding, mapping, precision
crop plans).
Ability to sell a complete line of fertilizer, seed, and crop protection
products.
Ability to develop sales strategies and techniques to increase sales and
achieve sales objectives.
Ability to learn and present programs to Growers/Producers in group or
individual settings.
Effective communication, organizational, relationship-building, and
presentation skills.
PC proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Ability to travel up to 95%, with limited overnight stays.
Southern States Cooperative, Inc., is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
and does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color,
religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age,
disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, family medical
history or genetic information, or any other status protected by federal, state
or local laws, or regulations.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of
work being performed by employees assigned to this job. They are not intended to
be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, functions and skills
required for this job. Functions and requirements may change at any time with or
without notice.