Agro Park Manager

Job Purpose

Reporting to the Director of Agro-Park Development, the Agro-Park Manager is responsible for the development of the respective Agro Park by managing the day-day operations and providing effective support to the farmer/investor group. The incumbent is also responsible for facilitating the provision of agricultural support services to the producers on the Agro Park. 

Key Responsibilities Areas

Technical 

• Establishes objectives and strategies based on Agro-Park work-plans
• Prepares work-plans and budgets based on strategic objectives 
• Submits progress reports highlighting achievements versus stated goals
• Ensures that all on farm activities are undertaken in accordance with good agricultural practices 
• Establishes appropriate record keeping of all agronomic activities

Implementation/Monitoring 

• Manages day-to-day operational aspects of the Agro Park 
• Ensures the implementation of specific goals and inputs from the work-plans
• Diagnoses problems and identifies appropriate solutions in the field
• Initiates agronomic training and on-farm follow up activities for farmers to include but not limited to: 
  • o Land Preparation and husbandry 
  • o Crop Establishment and Management of a wide range of crops 
  • o Advice on livestock management where necessary 
  • o Post-Harvest Management Technique 
  • o General Crop Production Techniques 
  • Conduct practical demonstrations in: 
    • o Pest and Disease identification 
    • o Prevention and control methods 
    • o Scouting techniques 
    • o Use of protective gear 
    • o Observing environmental practices 
• Prepares reports on activities as required by management
• Provides extension support to farmers 
• Enables farmers to make informed decisions 
• Guides farmers in the best use of their resources through investigation and diagnosis of problems identified by them through extension support 
• Provides guidance to farmers to form their own organizations in order to achieve economies of scale, create efficiencies in buying inputs and marketing produce
• Performs other related functions assigned from time to time by the Director of Agro Park Development. 

Communication/Information Services 

• Conduct practical demonstrations in: 
• Pest and Disease identification 
• Prevention and control methods 
• Scouting techniques 
• Use of protective gear 
• Observing environmental practices 

Other 

• Performs other related functions assigned by the Senior Director Agro-Park Development from time to time. 

Required Skills & Competencies

• Sound knowledge of the Jamaican agricultural sector and its main markets
• Sound knowledge of pest and disease identification, prevention and control methods 
• Knowledge of project management 
• Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and desktop publishing and financial analysis software 
• High level of integrity, professionalism and confidentiality 
• Sound analytical skills and problem-solving skills 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills including reporting writing
• Strong presentation skills 
• Strong interpersonal skills 
• Strong negotiating skills 
• Good time management and organizing skills 
• Ability to interpret and present statistical analyses 

Minimum Required Qualification and Experience

• A First Degree in Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Science, Agribusiness, Business Management or a related field with three (3) years’ work experience OR
• An Associate Degree in Agricultural Science with five (5) years’ experience in farm management 
• Experience in Project Management is desirable 

Special Conditions Associated with the job

• Required to travel locally to attend seminars, conferences and meetings
• May be required to provide project and technical support to farms or specific industries 
• Expose to harsh climate conditions 

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.