The FS brand represents a standard of excellence for agricultural and energy-related products. It's the people who represent the FS brand that set it apart. As local cooperatives, FS Companies believe it is their responsibility to ensure that our earth, our communities, and businesses perform together, sustainably. FS Companies are committed to ensuring the continued profitability for the company, their owners, and their customers, while enacting to help the environment and greater good.

Title: Seed Sales Manager

Reports To: Agronomy Sales Manager

Summary: Accountable for consistent, profitable seed sales growth and market share growth by leading, guiding and educating the AGRILAND FS sales force and support team. Provide leadership and support through sales calls and training. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responsible for profitable seed and trait sales growth.
• Coaches and trains Crop Specialists on seed selling technique and product information. Trains and assists Crop Specialist to make whole farm proposals.
• Assists and provides technical leadership to sales people in developing a strong seed plot and on-farm discovery programs (master plots, strip plots and side by sides) that includes variety selection, signing and harvest data collection.
• Targets and markets seed to key accounts.  Lead in seed expertise in future target program. Participates on sales calls and targeted grower meetings with Crop Specialists.
• Maintains an active relationship with key seed accounts. 
• Maintains understanding of costs, pricing and value of seed in each marketing situation and achieves desired level of profitability in all seed pricing.
• Responsible for seed business plans.
• Meets or exceeds budgeted gross and service for seed and traits.
• Assists Agronomy Sales Manager with supervision and performance expectations of Crop Specialists.
• Develops, implements and guides seed marketing activities throughout the year. Implements and administers seed marketing programs that will result in profitable seed sales growth. Maintains consistent, continual emphasis on seed at all times with sales force and support staff.
• Understands, promotes and utilizes precision services to grow seed and agronomy.
• Coordinates field sign programs and location identification with all system supported brands.  Helps maintain AGRILAND FS brand strategy.  Promotes the FS brand message to Crop Specialists, employee team and growers.
• Advises with pricing.
• Advises in budgeting process.
• Forecasts and communicates product needs for ordering and proper placement of product.
• Understands competitive products and programs and communicates key points to company.
• Manages any seed complaints.
• Assists with in-season movement of product to manage inventory.
• Trains all appropriate location personnel on importance of seed.  Provide better understanding for seed business and AGRILAND FS seed lineup.
• Provides weekly reports to the Agronomy Sales Manager that monitors progress towards established goals, performance of essential job functions and market conditions.  Serves as liaison between GROWMARK Seed Division and AGRILAND FS.
• Maintains an active interest in self-development and personal improvement.
• Establishes and maintains a professional image in personal appearance, equipment appearance and personal habits.
• Understands and follows established company policy.
• Submits required reports promptly at times designated.
• Attends meetings as requested.
• Displays good judgment, positive attitude and enthusiasm in dealing with customers and employees.
• Performs other appropriate duties as assigned.
• Understands and actively pursues the vision of AGRILAND FS.

REQUIREMENTS

• Normally requires a college degree or equivalent thereof, plus 5-7 years sales experience. 
• Demonstrated knowledge of seed, fertilizer and crop protection products.
• Demonstrated knowledge of market analysis, pricing strategies, and supply forecasts.
• Must have Certified Crop Advisor accreditation or acquire within established period.
• Proven sales leadership and demonstrate closing techniques.
• Proven ability to build relationships, identify producer needs and make whole farm proposals.
• Proven professional communication, customer service, interpersonal, presentation, and persuasion skills.
• Demonstrated planning, time management and organizational skills.
• Demonstrated the ability to be self-directed, make decisions, and work in a team-oriented environment.
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license.  Requires overnight travel on a limited basis.
• Ability to lift seed bags up to 70 pounds.

FS. Bringing You What's Next. We are an equal opportunity employer, including protected veterans and qualified individuals with disabilities. Employment may be contingent upon receipt of an acceptable and job-related background check, motor vehicle report, and/or reference check, as applicable and permissible by law.