Job Description

Position Overview:

The Senior Agronomist - Market & Technical Specialist is a dual-focused role critical to driving both the productivity and profitability of the banana farm. You will serve as the foremost technical expert in banana agronomy, soil science, and integrated pest management, while also leveraging this expertise to develop market opportunities. You will bridge the gap between advanced agricultural science and commercial application, ensuring that on-farm practices not only maximize yield and sustainability but also align with and capitalize on market demands

1. Key Responsibilities

Technical Agronomy & Sustainable Production:

Develop and implement context-specific agronomic practices for banana cultivation, focusing on

Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM), Integrated Pest Management (IPM),

and water management to enhance climate resilience . Lead the design and execution of field trials to evaluate new crop varieties, fertilizers, and sustainable farming techniques, using data to inform decisions. Conduct regular soil and plant tissue analysis to diagnose nutrient deficiencies and prescribe corrective actions to maintain optimal soil health and crop nutrition . Oversee the farm's pest and disease control program, specifically targeting challenges like banana weevils, nematodes, and Black Sigatoka.

Market Development & Value Chain Integration:

Act as a technical expert to drive demand for the farm's products by providing data-driven insights to buyers and partners .

Create training programs

for farm staff and outgrowers (if applicable) on

Good Agronomic Practices (GAPs)

to ensure produce meets quality standards for target markets, including export regulations . Analyze market trends and identify opportunities for value-added products or diversification to enhance revenue streams . Collaborate with sales and marketing teams, providing the technical story and product positioning that differentiates the farm in the market .

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships:

Build and maintain strategic partnerships with research institutions, government agencies, input suppliers, and other key stakeholders to stay at the forefront of innovation . Represent the farm in regional forums and policy dialogues, advocating for practices and policies that support sustainable banana production and market access . Provide technical advisory support to the farm's management on long-term strategies for enhancing productivity and navigating market volatility .

2. Qualifications & Experience

Education:

A Bachelor's degree in Agronomy, Crop Science, Soil Science, or a related field is required . A Master's degree or PhD is highly preferred for this senior-level role .

Experience:

Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in agronomy, with a significant portion focused on perennial fruit crops, ideally in a West African context . Proven track record in designing and implementing agricultural programs, conducting field trials, and translating research into practical farm-level applications . Demonstrable experience in market-oriented activities, such as value chain analysis, developing training for quality standards, or providing technical sales support .

Skills & Competencies:

Technical Expertise:

Deep knowledge of soil health, plant physiology, IPM, and irrigation systems .

Data Analysis:

Proficiency in using agronomic data software, GIS tools, and farm management systems for yield analysis and decision support .

Communication & Leadership:

Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders, lead training sessions, and mentor junior staff .

Strategic Thinking:

Ability to align technical farm operations with broader business and market objectives .

3. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

KPI CategoryExamples

Production & Quality

-

Yield per hectare

(Target: ? X tons/ha) .
-

Reduction in post-harvest losses

(Target: ? X%) .
- Improvement in quality metrics (e.g., percentage of export-grade fruit).

Sustainability & Efficiency

-

Reduction in input costs

(e.g., fertilizers, pesticides) through optimized use .
- Improvement in water-use efficiency (e.g., liters/kg of bananas produced).
- Successful adoption of new, resilient practices or technologies on X% of farm area.

Market & Strategic Impact

- Successful development and launch of X number of new training programs for staff/partners .
- Contribution to securing new market contracts or partnerships based on technical quality.
- Effective management of projects and initiatives within budget .

4. Personal Attributes

A Culture Carrier:

Embodies integrity, respect, innovation, stewardship, and equity in all undertakings .

Results and Detail Oriented:

A hands-on, proactive approach with a strong focus on achieving measurable outcomes .

Resilient and Adaptable:

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and lead through change and uncertainty .

Passionate about Africa:

A genuine commitment to contributing to agricultural transformation and improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers within the agricultural ecosystem .
Job Type: Full-time

Projected Total Compensation: From 2,227.20 per month

Work Location: In person