Battle Creek Farm Bureau

Job Title: Manager

Location: Climax, Michigan

Reports To: Board of Directors

Job Type: Full-Time

Salary: Starting at $75,000

About Us: Battle Creek Farm Bureau is a locally owned Farmer’s cooperative that offers a wide range of products and services for our community. You do not have to be a member or farmer to purchase our products or services. Located at 14325 East OP Ave in Climax Michigan has been serving the area since 1920, and we are owned by approximately 200 local farmers.

Job Summary: The Manager will oversee the daily operations, strategic planning, and financial management of the cooperative. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in agriculture, excellent leadership skills, and a commitment to fostering member relations and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Operational Management: Oversee day-to-day operations of the co-op, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery to members, including the purchasing of fertilizer and chemicals.
• Financial Oversight: Develop and manage the co-op’s budget, monitor financial performance, and ensure sound financial practices, including managing margins for corn, soybean, and wheat.
• Strategic Planning: Lead the development and implementation of strategic plans to drive the growth and sustainability of the co-op.
• Member Relations: Foster strong relationships with co-op members, addressing their needs and concerns, and ensuring high member satisfaction.
• Staff Management: Recruit, hire, and terminate employees as necessary. Train and supervise co-op staff, promoting a positive and productive work environment.
• Operational Oversight: Oversee the custom application services provided by the co-op and ensure facility cleanliness and organization.
• Regulatory Compliance: Interact with inspectors, state agencies, and insurance representatives to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations.
• Customer Service: Address and resolve customer complaints effectively and promptly.
• Marketing and Outreach: Develop and execute marketing strategies to promote co-op services and attract new members.
• Compliance and Reporting: Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and prepare regular reports for the Board of Directors.
• Community Engagement: Represent the co-op at industry events, community meetings, and with other agricultural organizations.

Qualifications:

• Degree in Business Management, Business Administration, Agriculture, or related field OR minimum of 3 years’ experience in a management position.
• Strong understanding of agricultural practices and issues facing the farming community.
• Proven leadership and management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Financial acumen and experience with budget management.
• Ability to develop and implement strategic plans.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification as a Crop Advisor is highly advantageous but not required.
• Ability to obtain a dealer license for pesticides (can be acquired post-hire).
• Experience working with agricultural cooperatives.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal agricultural regulations.
• Experience in marketing and member recruitment.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Relocation assistance offered for the right candidate.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Contribution to the sustainability and success of the agricultural community.

Join us in our mission to support and advance the agricultural community through innovative and collaborative efforts. We look forward to welcoming a dedicated and dynamic Manager to our team!