Agricultural Supply Chain Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of sustainable farming, the focus on agricultural supply chain managers has never been more critical.

As the world of farming progresses, the demand for skilled individuals who can effectively manage, optimize, and maintain the agricultural supply chain grows significantly.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from an agricultural supply chain manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complexities of agricultural supply chain management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable agricultural supply chain manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Agricultural Supply Chain Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Agricultural Supply Chain Managers oversee the entire supply chain process in an agricultural setting, from sourcing raw materials to the delivery of the final product.

They work to optimize the supply chain and ensure all operations are running smoothly and efficiently.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Plan, manage and coordinate all activities related to the sourcing and procurement of necessary materials and supplies needed to meet the changing levels of product demand.
• Work with other members of the supply chain team to identify and implement best practices and stay up to date with the latest trends in supply chain management.
• Monitor supplier performance to assess ability to meet quality and delivery requirements; negotiate contracts and pricing.
• Manage inventory and ensure that product turnover rates are kept at optimal levels.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as procurement, engineering, and quality assurance, to identify or qualify new suppliers.
• Develop and manage all aspects of transportation logistics, including delivery routes and tracking of merchandise to ensure timely delivery.
• Implement and enforce supply chain policies and procedures to improve operational effectiveness and enhance customer satisfaction.
• Address any problems or complaints that arise in the supply chain process, from supplier issues to customer complaints, and work to resolve these issues in a timely and satisfactory manner.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and industry standards, including those related to health and safety, environmental protection, and quality assurance.

 

Agricultural Supply Chain Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dynamic Agricultural Supply Chain Manager to oversee and manage every stage of the agricultural supply chain.

The ideal candidate should have a solid understanding of supply chain processes and have experience in the agriculture industry.

Responsibilities will include managing relationships with farmers and suppliers, coordinating with transportation and storage providers, and ensuring compliance with agricultural standards and regulations.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee all stages of the agricultural supply chain from production to distribution
• Establish and maintain relationships with farmers and suppliers
• Coordinate with transportation and storage providers to ensure timely and efficient delivery of agricultural products
• Monitor and manage inventory levels and production schedules
• Ensure compliance with agricultural standards and regulations
• Implement strategies to improve efficiency and reduce costs
• Resolve any supply chain issues or disruptions
• Prepare and deliver regular performance reports

 

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, agriculture, business administration, or a related field
• Proven experience in supply chain management, preferably in the agricultural sector
• Strong understanding of supply chain processes
• Excellent organizational and project management skills
• Strong communication and negotiation skills
• Problem-solving ability and attention to detail
• Ability to handle the physical demands of the job

 

Benefits

• 401(k) retirement plan
• Health and dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Travel allowance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Agricultural Supply Chain Manager
• Work Environment: Office setting, with frequent travel to farms and distribution centers. The role may also involve some physical labor.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Supply Chain Management.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications, and in line with market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 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 company. 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 Supply Chain Manager Do?

An Agricultural Supply Chain Manager plays a crucial role in agriculture-based industries such as farming, food production, and horticulture.

Their primary responsibility is to manage and oversee the entire supply chain, from the procurement of raw materials to the delivery of the final product.

This involves working with farmers, suppliers, and retail partners to ensure the smooth operation of the supply chain.

They are tasked with negotiating contracts with suppliers, optimizing transportation routes and storage of goods, monitoring the quality of agricultural products, and ensuring compliance with food safety standards and regulations.

Agricultural Supply Chain Managers also analyze market trends and consumer demand to forecast future supply needs.

They work to improve the efficiency of the supply chain by implementing new technologies and supply chain management strategies.

In case of any disruptions in the supply chain, they are responsible for devising and implementing contingency plans.

Additionally, they work closely with other departments like sales, production, and finance to align supply chain operations with the overall business goals.

Their job also involves sustainability and they often work on strategies to minimize the environmental impact of the supply chain, such as reducing waste and carbon emissions.

 

Agricultural Supply Chain Manager Qualifications and Skills

An Agricultural Supply Chain Manager should possess the skills and qualifications that align with the demands of the role, such as:

• Comprehensive understanding of agricultural processes, logistics, and supply chain management to effectively oversee the entire chain from production to consumer.
• Strong organizational and planning skills to ensure the supply chain operates smoothly and efficiently without any disruption.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to coordinate with farmers, suppliers, transportation providers, and retailers.
• Good negotiation skills to secure contracts with suppliers, transportation providers, and other partners in the supply chain.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to address any issues or bottlenecks within the supply chain promptly.
• Leadership skills to manage teams and ensure all parties in the supply chain work towards common goals.
• Knowledge of relevant laws and regulations in the agriculture sector to ensure compliance throughout the supply chain.
• Proficiency in supply chain management software and tools to track and analyze supply chain performance.

 

Agricultural Supply Chain Manager Experience Requirements

Entry-level Agricultural Supply Chain Managers often have a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Business, Supply Chain Management or a related field, with 1 to 2 years of experience in the agricultural industry.

This experience may be gained through internships, part-time roles, or even roles in related fields such as agricultural production, logistics, or procurement.

Candidates with around 3 to 5 years of experience often have hands-on experience in managing different aspects of the agricultural supply chain, including procurement, transportation, storage, and distribution of agricultural goods.

They may have started their careers in roles such as Supply Chain Analyst, Procurement Specialist, or Logistics Coordinator in the agricultural sector.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have a solid understanding of the complexities and dynamics of the agricultural supply chain, from farm to fork.

They may have held leadership roles in managing teams and coordinating complex supply chain operations.

Such candidates are typically well-equipped with the skills and knowledge required to manage a robust and efficient agricultural supply chain.

Additional desired experience for these roles can often include knowledge of agricultural regulations, quality control procedures, and experience with supply chain management software.

A Master’s degree in Supply Chain Management or Business Administration can provide an added advantage.

 

Agricultural Supply Chain Manager Education and Training Requirements

An Agricultural Supply Chain Manager typically requires a bachelor’s degree in business administration, agriculture, logistics, supply chain management or a related field.

Coursework usually includes topics such as logistics management, agricultural economics, agribusiness, and supply chain management.

Some programs offer courses specifically focused on the agricultural supply chain, providing in-depth knowledge of the unique challenges and opportunities in this field.

In addition to a relevant degree, experience in the agriculture industry or supply chain management is highly beneficial.

This could include work in farming, agricultural business, or logistics roles.

Certifications are not generally required, but obtaining one can be advantageous.

For instance, a Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) credential from the Association for Supply Chain Management or a Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) credential from the American Production and Inventory Control Society could enhance career prospects.

Further, a master’s degree in a related field can be beneficial for career advancement, especially for roles with increased responsibilities or specialized tasks.

Ongoing professional development is also important in order to stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies.

Finally, successful Agricultural Supply Chain Managers need strong analytical skills, the ability to make strategic decisions, and excellent communication and negotiation skills.

 

Agricultural Supply Chain Manager Salary Expectations

An Agricultural Supply Chain Manager earns an average salary of $81,076 (USD) per year.

This may fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, specific skills, and the geographical location of the job.

Additionally, the size and type of the employing organization can also influence the salary range.

 

Agricultural Supply Chain Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Agricultural Supply Chain Manager need?

Agricultural Supply Chain Managers need strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify efficiencies and improvements in the supply chain.

They must have excellent communication and negotiation abilities to interact with suppliers, transporters, and retailers.

Knowledge of agricultural practices and understanding of regulatory requirements in the agricultural sector are also crucial.

Furthermore, they should be able to use supply chain management software effectively.

 

Do Agricultural Supply Chain Managers need a degree?

Most Agricultural Supply Chain Managers have a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture, Business Management, Supply Chain Management or a related field.

Many employers prefer candidates with a Master’s Degree in these fields.

Additionally, experience in agricultural supply chain management is highly valued.

 

What should you look for in an Agricultural Supply Chain Manager resume?

Look for a combination of educational qualifications, relevant work experience, and specific skills.

They should have a degree in a relevant field and experience in managing agricultural supply chains.

Skills to look for include strategic planning, negotiation, communication, problem-solving and familiarity with supply chain management software.

Certifications in supply chain management can also be a big plus.

 

What qualities make a good Agricultural Supply Chain Manager?

A good Agricultural Supply Chain Manager has a strategic mindset and can handle complexity and change.

They have strong leadership abilities to manage teams and excellent problem-solving skills to identify and address supply chain issues.

They are also detail-oriented, ensuring that every aspect of the supply chain is running efficiently.

A passion for sustainable agricultural practices can also be a valuable quality.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Agricultural Supply Chain Manager?

Hiring an Agricultural Supply Chain Manager can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires a unique blend of agricultural knowledge, supply chain expertise, and management skills.

Therefore, it’s crucial to have a comprehensive hiring process in place to identify candidates with the right skill set and experience.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unearthed the true essence of being an Agricultural Supply Chain Manager.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about overseeing farm produce.

It’s about steering the lifeline of our food supply, one crop at a time.

With our ready-to-use Agricultural Supply Chain Manager job description template and practical examples, you’re prepared to take the next step.

But don’t stop just yet.

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating detailed job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every crop, every process, contributes to the broader food chain.

Let’s cultivate that future. Together.

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