Director of Seed Technology (Remote- East of the Rockies Preferred)

Description

General Purpose and Scope of Position: The National Director of Seed Technology oversees all aspects of the Wilbur-Ellis seed business working collaboratively with the team to foster the overall development, communication, and implementation of our national seed strategy.  This position, along with the VP of Seed Technology, represents the Wilbur-Ellis seed business with our supply partners and our geographic sales teams, with a focus towards corn and soybeans.  Additionally, this role will work with the seed teams to build and support strategy for the Wilbur-Ellis Integra Seed Brand business.  A critical component of this position is to provide leadership to the team with the One Wilbur-Ellis strategy.  Direct reports will include the Regional Seed Managers.

Key Skills and Abilities Include:

• In-depth knowledge of the decision-making process growers go through to decide on their inputs of seed, seed treatment, and agronomic products.
• Comprehensive understanding of the success-drivers of multi-national, basic-research suppliers
• Demonstrated ability to influence an outcome with suppliers through negotiation and relationship building skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate with, and influence, multiple levels of internal and external stakeholders (i.e. leadership, growers, regional management, sales personnel, etc.)
• Experience leading and motivating a highly productive and successful team to accomplish goals and objectives.
• Driven value selling skills, finding ways to contribute ROI and meet financial metrics.
• Experienced in developing collaborative business activities in a matrix management system.
• Established understanding of how various business decisions impact the P&L and the Balance Sheet
• Strategic thinker and planner with the ability to develop and execute these strategies.
• Inspiring public speaking skills

Key Personal Attributes Include:

• Problem solving:  Decision making through scenario planning and risk assessment.
• Communication:  Transparent and open communication, conveying an enthusiastic sense of urgency
• Competence:  Deep understanding of the macro-trends affecting the ag production industry
• Vision:  Articulating where are we going, and why
• Positive Attitude:  Motivating the organization and inspiring action.
• Character:  Doing the right thing
• Courage:  Making the tough choice
• Servanthood:  Responsiveness to both team and individual needs

Specific Responsibilities and Key Deliverables Include:

• Grow Wilbur-Ellis’ seed business revenue and profitability, collaborate with the team in managing the working capital requirements to an acceptable level.
• Collaborate in developing and the execution of an overall seed strategy, including the strategic aspects of Wilbur-Ellis’ Integra seed brand.
• Assist with developing supplier relationships into strategic partnerships and negotiation of favorable economic terms.
• Influence internal sales teams to implement aligned business plans by geographical areas.
• Train and develop members of the seed team at-large, with focus on direct reports.
• Assist on budgeting of all seed resources, assets, and people.

Compensation and Benefits:

• In compliance with all states and cities requiring transparency of pay, the base compensation for this position ranges from $188,900 - $264,540. Note that salary may vary based on location, skills, and experience.  This position is eligible for vacation, holidays, health, dental, vision, mental health, retirement plans, and other benefits. 

COMPANY CULTURE

Wilbur-Ellis is a company you can be proud to call your employer

Wilbur-Ellis markets and distributes agricultural products, animal feed, and specialty chemicals and food ingredients. A privately held and consistently profitable company, we employ more than 4,000 people throughout North America and Asia-Pacific.

Wilbur-Ellis is for and about people

Wilbur-Ellis has enjoyed over ninety-three years of success and growth, all thanks to our people. Our employees are both leaders and team players who thrive on creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and a dedication to quality work, our customers, and each other.

Wilbur-Ellis invests in the industry’s best workforce

Wilbur-Ellis invests heavily in our employees by offering skill development and training, competitive compensation and benefits, and a tradition of promoting from within for a broad range of career opportunities. And we foster a supportive, people-first work environment.

Apply today and come grow with us!

Job Code:DIREC011477