Agronomist

Date: 25 Apr 2025

Country: Cote d'Ivoire

Function: Operations

Sub-Function: Operations

Olam Agri ~ A differentiated, and market leading global agri-business focused on high-growth end consumption markets.

Our food, feed, fibre, agri-industrials & ag-services capabilities span 30+ countries, and we participate in global food and agri-trade flows, working with farmers and customers to connect local origins and global destinations. With a global origination footprint and processing capabilities, we transform food, feed and fibre to create value for customers and enable farming communities to prosper sustainably, to meet the changing consumption, food security and sustainability needs shaping the global food and agricultural landscape.

Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated and knowledgeable Cotton Agronomist to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for improving cotton farming practices, conducting research, and providing expert advice to farmers to enhance crop yields and quality. This role involves extensive travel and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of agricultural practices.

Key Deliverables

Research and Data Collection: Conduct primary and secondary data collection, participate in crop production analyses, and share production-related aspects and trend analysis with the business
Crop Estimation: Implement and supervise agreed research methodologies for crop estimation, conduct crop tours across different regions, and estimate cotton area by collecting data from official sources, visual estimation, farmer interviews, and third-party information
Risk Assessment: Highlight risks to crop estimates by working out various scenarios and assessing their impact on yields, including weather, pests, diseases, and changing costs or supply of inputs or labor
Monitoring and Analysis: Regularly monitor crop development using agronomical and statistical tools, analyze trends, evaluate behaviors, and make appropriate conclusions
Cost and Margin Studies: Conduct detailed cost of production and gross margins studies
Communication: Communicate findings in the form of well-argued crop tour reports and work as part of a team to ensure objectives are met
Farmer Support: Provide advice to farmers on best practices for cotton cultivation, pest and disease management, and soil health
Training and Development: Educate and train farmers on new crop production techniques and sustainable practices

Requirements

Master's degree in Agronomy, Agriculture, or a related field.
8-12 years of experience in agronomy, preferably with a focus on cotton.
Strong analytical skills and the ability to think critically and solve problems.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Willingness to travel extensively across different regions.

Olam is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, nationality, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Applicants are requested to complete all required steps in the application process including providing a resume/CV in order to be considered for open roles.