Territory Business Manager - Conserv FS - Waterman, IL

Conserv FS is a full-service agriculture cooperative offering high quality turf, energy, and agronomy products and services for the purpose of improving customer profitability since 1928. Conserv FS is headquartered in Woodstock, IL and serves patrons in southeastern Wisconsin and northern Illinois. Backed by a track record of success, an excellent group of employees, and a strong financial position, Conserv FS is among the premier ag supply companies in the geography it serves. The Conserv FS vision is to be the best, most innovative and diversified agricultural cooperative. 

REPORTS TO:  Agronomy Sales & Marketing Manager                                      STATUS: Exempt

(dotted line: Agronomy Operations Manager)

SALARY RANGE: $90,000 - $120,000 / Year

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

Provides leadership, management, and strategic direction for the agronomy business operations of Waterman, Malta, and Holcomb. Responsible for territory profitability, sales and operations alignment, inventory strategy, resource optimization, customer satisfaction, staffing strategy, and overall business performance.

SUPERVISION AND LEADERSHIP

Provides direct supervision of the Location Operations Manager and administrative personnel as assigned. Provides indirect leadership and coordination of Crop Specialists assigned to the territory. In cooperation with the Location Operations Manager and Agronomy Division Operations Manager, is responsible for coaching, performance management, succession planning, workforce development, and accountability, of the territory’s operations employees. In cooperation with the Chief Information Officer, is responsible for coaching, performance management, succession planning, workforce development, and accountability, of the territory’s administrative employees. Has primary responsibility for fostering collaboration between sales personnel with customers being served within the territory and the territory’s operations team. In addition, is responsible for developing and maintaining collaborative working relationships with the sales personnel and operations personnel from other locations/territories.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Develops and implements annual business plans, budgets, and profitability objectives.

Coordinates with Crop Specialists and Location Operations Manager to schedule employees, trucks, applicators, and operational resources.

Monitors sales, margins, expenses, inventory investment, and operational efficiency.

Coordinate with territory Crop Specialists and Conserv Task Force to identify territory product needs.

Leads local planning meetings to align application schedules, labor, trucks, and equipment resources.

In conjunction with Procurement Manager, coordinates with suppliers, manufacturers, brokers, and logistics providers to ensure product availability for forecasted sales.

Maintains key customer relationships and resolves major service concerns.

Supports safety, compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Leads KPI review and drives operational and financial performance improvements across the territory.

Responsible for selling to customers at the location or by phone.

Collaborates with the Agronomy Operations Manager to ensure all equipment, rolling stock, and facilities are in good working order.

Assists with the annual budget planning process.

Prepares reports of business transactions and keeps expense accounts.

OTHER JOB FUNCTIONS

Supports and contributes to total company goals and objectives through collaboration efforts.

Responsible for maintaining the assigned vehicle according to company standards, adhering to the uniform policy, and maintaining the appropriate professional image.

Ensures that direct reports are reviewed and given input on job performance according to Conserv FS’s policy.

Performs all other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

Normally requires a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Agribusiness, Business Administration or related field and 5+ years leadership experience preferably in the agricultural field. Demonstrated knowledge of agronomy sales, operations, financial management, inventory control, logistics, and employee development. Strong communication, planning, analytical, and leadership skills.

Understanding and experience with competitive adeptness, inventory management, customer credit worthiness, product knowledge and proficiency, including fertilizers, ag chemicals, seed, soil needs, and field monitoring.

Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license, a satisfactory driving record, and be able to travel independently.

Must be able to obtain and maintain all applicable certifications, licenses, and permits.

Ability to work extended hours and be on call when business conditions warrant.

Occasionally exposed or required to:

• Extreme weather conditions (hot, cold, wet, snow, ice, etc.)
• Noisy conditions
• Working conditions may include dust, fumes, chemicals, and electrical hazards with appropriate safety measures
• May be required to work at varying heights
• Lift 51 - 70 lbs.

Demonstrates essential abilities including business knowledge, collaboration, communication, customer focus, decision making and skill development.

Ability and willingness to participate in required training that may include education on Conserv FS’s policies and procedures and additional training as it relates to the requirements of the position. 

Signature of employee: ____________________________________ 

Signature of Manager:  _____________________________________  

At Conserv FS, we are dedicated to supporting the long-term financial well-being of our employees through a fully funded pension, a cornerstone benefit that ensures security for the future. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, along with a variety of supplemental plans like accident, critical illness, disability, hospital indemnity, and identity theft protection. To promote a healthy work-life balance, employees enjoy generous paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays, giving you time to recharge and focus on what matters most. Additionally, our 401(k) plan with company matching helps you plan for retirement, while our free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) supports your overall well-being. Whether you're starting your career, balancing family life, or planning for retirement, our company is committed to providing employees with a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that meets your needs at every stage. Benefits eligibility may vary depending on the position.

Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law.  In addition to base pay, certain roles may be eligible for bonuses, incentives, and commissions.