Manager, Dairy Business Unit - Southern States Cooperative (Richmond, Virginia)

Based in our Corporate Headquarters in Richmond, VA, you will develop and implement innovative products and programs in dairy nutrition and business management. You will plan and coordinate training, marketing, formulation, research and development activities for dairy feeds and direct sales efforts to facilitate an increase in market share and profitability in dairy nutrition for Southern States.

Requirements/Qualifications:

         Advanced Degree (PhD or DVM) & Professional Animal Scientist (PAS) certification preferred

         Minimum M.S. degree in Agricultural Science

         7+ years (preferred) experience in dairy nutrition consulting and dairy business management

         Knowledge of dairy nutrition, dairy management practices and dairy animal health

         Knowledge of how to use dairy products and programs

         Effective leadership, training, organizational, communication and problem-solving skills

         Demonstrated ability in farm sales

         Ability to analyze on-farm dairy management and nutrition program

         Ability to address consumer needs and provide effective consultation

         PC proficiency MS Office software

         On-Farm Ration software proficiency or able to learn

         Valid Drivers License, ability to travel (up to 50%)

         Able to lift up to 50 lbs., climb, stoop, bend, reach and crawl on a frequent basis

         Able to work safely in adverse weather and environmental conditions

         Able to pass background check and drug screen

Responsibilities includes:

         Provide sales and technical leadership to Field Sales/Technical staff

         Provide hands-on sales and business leadership for two geographic dairy-to-direct producer sales areas (North Carolina and Kentucky)

         Develop and manage Dairy Sales program, promotions and marketing plan

         Meet with Dairy Producers to address their needs, observe farm management practices, provide analysis and recommendations to increase milk production

         Participate in research planning and new product development

         Develop and maintain professional relationships with Land Grant Universities

         Maintain PAS certification and/or obtain within first year of employment

         Maintain and direct management of on-farm ration software

         Educate employees on how to use updates and enhancements to on-farm ration software

About the Company

At Southern States Cooperative, Inc., were a 2.1 billion dollar agribusiness serving most of the Eastern U.S., with 3,500 employees - one of the nations largest farmer-owned cooperatives. Our employees enjoy a competitive salary & comprehensive benefits package that includes health, vision and dental insurance, paid time off, paid disability and life insurance, 401k savings plan, educational assistance and more. Come join us. For more information on Southern States, please visit our website at www.southernstates.com.  Southern States Cooperative, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.