Agricultural Cooperative Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of sustainable farming, the role of Agricultural Cooperative Managers has become increasingly significant.

As the world strives towards greener solutions, the demand for proficient individuals who can manage, develop, and protect our agricultural resources is surging.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Agricultural Cooperative Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes of agricultural management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a tailor-made Agricultural Cooperative Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Agricultural Cooperative Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Agricultural Cooperative Managers oversee and manage the operations of farming cooperatives, businesses owned and run by farmers who pool their resources for mutual benefit.

They often handle business logistics, including procurement, distribution, marketing, and sales.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the daily operations of the agricultural cooperative, including financial management, administration, and planning
• Developing and implementing strategic plans to improve productivity, efficiency, and profitability
• Engaging and building relationships with cooperative members, staff, and key stakeholders
• Implementing and monitoring policies and procedures to ensure compliance with agricultural regulations and standards
• Negotiating and managing contracts with suppliers, vendors, and other business partners
• Coordinating with the board of directors to set budgets, make financial decisions, and establish short and long-term goals
• Resolving conflicts between cooperative members and addressing any issues or concerns they may have
• Organizing and attending meetings, including board meetings, member meetings, and community events
• Staying informed about trends and developments in the agricultural industry, and adapting the cooperative’s strategies as necessary

 

Agricultural Cooperative Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Agricultural Cooperative Manager to join our team.

Your role will involve managing the daily operations of our agricultural cooperative, ensuring optimal production and profitability.

Responsibilities include overseeing agricultural production and sales, enforcing quality standards, optimizing cooperative performance, and fostering a collaborative environment among our members.

The ideal candidate should have a solid background in agricultural management, with excellent leadership and communication skills.

Ultimately, the Agricultural Cooperative Manager will be tasked with leading our cooperative to success, while maintaining a strong emphasis on sustainability and community development.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations of the agricultural cooperative
• Oversee agricultural production, ensuring it meets quality standards
• Handle sales and marketing of agricultural products
• Develop and implement strategies for optimizing cooperative performance
• Enforce cooperative policies and regulations
• Provide guidance and support to cooperative members
• Track and analyze cooperative finances, ensuring profitability
• Facilitate training and development programs for cooperative members
• Network with stakeholders, suppliers and industry professionals
• Ensure cooperative activities comply with local, state and federal agricultural laws and regulations

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an agricultural cooperative manager or similar role
• Knowledge of agricultural production and marketing processes
• Familiarity with agricultural laws and regulations
• Excellent leadership and communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to work with diverse group of stakeholders
• Strong commitment to sustainable agricultural practices
• BSc degree in Agriculture, Business Management or related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Agricultural Cooperative Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting within a farm environment. Physical presence at the farm and occasional travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Cooperative Board of Directors.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our cooperative. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Agricultural Cooperative Manager Do?

Agricultural Cooperative Managers typically work for farming organizations or agri-business cooperatives that aim to pool resources and leverage collective bargaining power.

They can also work as part of government bodies and non-profit organizations.

Their primary role is to oversee the operations of an agricultural cooperative, which could include managing agricultural production, overseeing sales and marketing strategies, ensuring the quality of products, and maintaining relationships with member farmers.

Agricultural Cooperative Managers work closely with board members, farmers, suppliers, and customers.

They are responsible for ensuring the cooperative meets its economic and social goals, while also providing benefits to its members.

They are also responsible for organizing meetings, managing budgets, and developing strategic plans for the cooperative.

They ensure that all operations adhere to local and national regulations and standards.

Moreover, they play a key role in decision-making processes, such as setting the prices for agricultural products, determining the allocation of profits, and making investments for the cooperative’s future.

Agricultural Cooperative Managers may also work on community development initiatives, advocating for the interests of their members, and promoting sustainable farming practices.

 

Agricultural Cooperative Manager Qualifications and Skills

An agricultural cooperative manager is expected to have a vast array of skills and qualifications to effectively manage the cooperative, including:

• Comprehensive knowledge of the agricultural sector, including the specific needs and challenges of cooperative farming.
• Ability to effectively manage cooperative resources and finances, including budgeting, planning, and financial reporting.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, to lead the team effectively and ensure smooth operation of the cooperative.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise with cooperative members, staff, external partners, and stakeholders.
• Experience in agricultural marketing and sales, with a focus on identifying and reaching new markets for the cooperative’s produce.
• Proven ability to resolve conflicts and negotiate beneficial agreements for the cooperative.
• Experience in farming operations and knowledge of latest agricultural technologies and practices.
• Understanding of local, state, and federal agricultural regulations and ability to ensure compliance with these regulations.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities, with a focus on quickly and effectively addressing any issues that arise within the cooperative.
• Strong customer service skills, as agricultural cooperative managers often liaise directly with customers and clients.

 

Agricultural Cooperative Manager Experience Requirements

Agricultural Cooperative Managers often have extensive experience in agricultural or business-related fields.

This could be through a combination of educational qualifications, hands-on farming experience, or related business experience.

An entry-level cooperative manager may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in agricultural businesses or cooperatives.

They may have practical knowledge in farm management, crop production, livestock care, or other farming-related activities.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience typically have a deeper understanding of the agricultural industry, including supply chain management, cooperative administration, and member relations.

They might have also gained experience in financial management, cooperative policy formulation, and agricultural marketing strategies.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are usually well versed in cooperative management, with a strong background in strategic planning, team leadership, and decision-making.

They may also have experience in dealing with governmental agricultural agencies and have a solid understanding of agricultural laws and policies.

A successful Agricultural Cooperative Manager should have experience in working with a diverse range of individuals, from farmers to consumers, and have the ability to balance the needs of the cooperative members with the success of the business.

 

Agricultural Cooperative Manager Education and Training Requirements

Agricultural Cooperative Managers usually have a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, business administration, or a related field.

They need a deep understanding of agricultural business operations, financial management, and leadership to perform their tasks effectively.

Courses in agricultural economics, farm management, agronomy, and animal husbandry are often beneficial.

Some roles may require a thorough knowledge of a specific area of agriculture, such as dairy science or viticulture.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, some Agricultural Cooperative Managers may have a master’s degree in agricultural business or management.

This advanced education can indicate a candidate’s ability to handle complex agricultural operations and strategic planning.

Many managers often have significant work experience in farming or a related field before moving into a management position, which aids in understanding the practical aspects of the job.

Furthermore, there are certification programs available that can improve a candidate’s credentials, such as the Certified Cooperative Manager (CCM) offered by the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest agricultural technologies, policies, and market trends are also crucial for the role of an Agricultural Cooperative Manager.

 

Agricultural Cooperative Manager Salary Expectations

An Agricultural Cooperative Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $67,392 (USD) per year.

The actual compensation may fluctuate based on factors such as experience, qualifications, location, and the specific cooperative organization they are managing.

 

Agricultural Cooperative Manager Job Description FAQs

What is an Agricultural Cooperative?

An Agricultural Cooperative is a farmers’ co-op that helps farmers pool their resources in certain areas of activity.

These activities can include bulk purchasing of supplies (such as feed, seed, and fertilizer), pooling the products of their farms for joint marketing or processing, and providing other services such as credit and insurance.

 

What skills does an Agricultural Cooperative Manager need?

An Agricultural Cooperative Manager must have strong leadership skills to manage the operations of the cooperative effectively.

They should also have good interpersonal and communication skills to interact with members and stakeholders.

Knowledge of agricultural practices, marketing, and finance is also crucial.

They should also be adaptable and solution-oriented to deal with the challenges that may arise in the agricultural sector.

 

Do Agricultural Cooperative Managers need a degree?

Most Agricultural Cooperative Managers have a degree in Agriculture, Business Administration, or a related field.

While a degree is not strictly necessary, it can provide valuable knowledge about the agricultural sector and business management practices.

Experience in agricultural operations and cooperative management is also highly beneficial.

 

What should you look for in an Agricultural Cooperative Manager’s resume?

An Agricultural Cooperative Manager’s resume should demonstrate knowledge and experience in agricultural operations, cooperative management, and business operations.

They should also have strong leadership skills and the ability to work effectively with a diverse team of agricultural professionals.

Any experience in strategic planning, financial management, and marketing can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Agricultural Cooperative Manager?

A good Agricultural Cooperative Manager should be a strong leader who can motivate and guide the cooperative members towards their common goals.

They should also have good communication and interpersonal skills to build effective relationships with cooperative members and stakeholders.

They should have a strong understanding of the agricultural sector and business management, and they should be able to make sound decisions under pressure.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into what it truly means to be an Agricultural Cooperative Manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about growing crops.

It’s about nurturing the future of agriculture, one harvest at a time.

With our practical Agricultural Cooperative Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to make your move.

But why end your journey here?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to meticulously crafted job listings or sharpening your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every harvest is part of the larger agricultural landscape.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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