Job Description

Experience: 7 years of experience in the agricultural industry/marketing/retail management Brief on the Job Position The Area Manager Agricultural Sales is a significant position at Ayekart. The objective of the position is to spearhead the sales operations in both agricultural and retail marketing systems and expand the organization s footprint in assigned geographical areas to drive sales growth and increase revenue generation. Scope of Work The Area Manager Agricultural Sales will manage the entire sourcing and sales cycle of the various agricultural and retail products offered by Ayekart, from lead generation to successful sales closure. S/He would be in the vanguard of executing the area sales strategy, directly dealing with all the forefront players of the buyers, sellers, distributor and logistic network, increasing market penetration, and continuously improving sales performance to achieve the sales targets assigned to their area. Main Tasks & Responsibilities Sourcing and Selling of Agricultural Commodities in the Assigned Area Work closely with the regional sales manager to delineate the product line-wise sales targets of his specified area in alignment with regional sourcing and sales targets. Make monthly, quarterly and annual sales forecasts based on market demand and current trends; assess the potential for sales of product lines in the assigned area. Devise and execute individual action plans (daily, weekly or monthly) with clearly defined priorities to achieve the assigned sourcing and sales targets and budgeting and financial/revenue targets within the prescribed timelines in the overall regional plan. Prepare an advanced plan for area-specific seasonal crops, forecast demand for inputs and outputs, take pre-orders, balance out with assured supply, and engage multiple vendors (if need be) to ensure adequate and timely supply. Manage and oversee day-to-day sales operations, viz. product sourcing, follow-up supply and distribution channels, securing new sales deals, regular market visits, follow-ups on Ayekart apps usage, chasing sales order placements, order fulfilment, etc Ensure presence on ground zero to keep checking and controlling operating costs such as workforce, energy and fuel, logistics and freight, etc Ensure quality produce standards, control transportation wastage, and reduce inefficiencies in the distribution system. Coordinate delivery, streamline logistic and transportation processes, resolve issues causing unnecessary delays, and ensure that the product is delivered to the buyer/customer quickly, safely, and in the best possible condition. Continuous follow-up with the suppliers, buyers, distributors and other channel partners for timely payables and receivables to maintain a positive cash conversion cycle. Ensure completion of all necessary administration and finance procedures, approvals and documentation for procurement and sales. Ensure compliance with the state and central government s regulatory policies, guidelines, and laws pertaining to marketing sales, purchases, and distribution of agricultural inputs and outputs. Regularly review sales data and share daily updates with the Regional Manager; prepare and share monthly, quarterly and annual sales reports. Regular coordination with Agri-producers, Agri-marketers, Suppliers, and Buyers in Assigned Areas Build strong relations and maintain regular contact with strategic networks with the different community institutions like FPGs, Farmer Clubs, Cooperatives and FPOs, producers, distributors, retailers, 3P logistic players, warehouses, fulfilment centres, etc, in assigned geographical areas. Assist Regional Manager in exploring opportunities and negotiating for regional and/or local tie-ups with manufacturers of various products (inputs and outputs), branded and/ or non-branded products, under FMCG, FMCD and other related categories by Ayekart s business aspirational goals. Explore and contact new buyers, distributors, and marketers for various agricultural products, and develop plans to capture this new business and convert the lead into a successful sale. Negotiate the best possible deals regarding price, costs, volumes, and delivery with buyers, suppliers, distributors, and the logistics network. Build and maintain rapport with key customers; maintain a database of current customers, prospects and influencers for the specific product lines , address their queries regarding products, range, supply duration, payment options, delivery, etc Identify new opportunities for expanding the area retail (buyers) network and contact potential. Buyers and suppliers develop plans to capture this new business and convert the lead into successful sales. Introduce new products to buyer network/retailers; address their queries regarding products, range, supply duration, payment options, delivery, return, exchange and refund policies in line with their expectations and industry policy. Any other work assigned by the competent authority Qualifications and Experience Post Graduate in Business Management/ Marketing/ Agribusiness Management/Agriculture Economics/ Agricultural Engineering / Supply Chain Management or any other relevant field. Minimum 7 years of experience in the agricultural industry/marketing/retail management. At least 3 years of experience creating networks and business development, managing accounts, and enhancing professional sales for new molecules. Proven territory management experience, building relationships, lead generation, analyzing and forecasting market trends. Experience working with a large sales team on selling and procuring an extensive array of agricultural inputs and outputs. Familiarity with different kinds of farm machinery, how it operates and its efficiency, crop-specific usage of fertilizers and pesticides, details of growing and harvesting crops, livestock, etc Working knowledge of assaying, grading, and quality standards of agricultural and horticultural produce. Working knowledge of IT/Business infrastructure and MS Office. Proficiency in (Reading, Writing and Speaking) of English and Hindi language. Working knowledge of any other Indian vernacular language will favour the candidate. Skills and Core Competencies 1. Essential Ability to work accurately under time constraints, such as managing time-sensitive delivery requirements with patience and tactfulness. Ability to work under pressure and handle workloads related to seasonal demands some unsociable hours may be necessary during busy periods (e.g., during sowing and harvesting), and the incumbent will be expected to deal with emergencies. Notable interpersonal and communication skills with a positive demeanour and ability to effectively provide positive and negative feedback. Willingness to travel, especially staying and working in a rural environment. Strong negotiating and networking skills. 2. Desirable Excellent problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills. Ability to effectively manage and maintain peer and business relationships with high integrity and trust. Reporting The Area Manager Agricultural Sales shall report to the Regional Manager Sales, Ayekart. S/He will seek guidance and directions from the regional sales manager. Remuneration & Benefits A competitive remuneration package shall be tailored to the candidate s competence and calibre.