Responsibilities

• Implement strategies to assist farmers and agribusinesses to effectively market their products and identify profitable sales opportunities.
• Organize and conduct production area tours.
• Complete market analysis.
• Participate and represent agricultural industries at trade shows.
• Implement retail and consumer promotions.
• Distribute marketing information during presentations.
• Assist management in developing an agricultural marketing plan by providing information on the marketing needs and opportunities of the region.
• Assist with promoting participation in the Virginia Grown and Virginia’s Finest trademark programs to increase profit potential for producers and food processors.
• Manage the administrative responsibilities, industry check-off dollars and marketing initiatives related to the VA Wine Board to maximize their program activities.
• Telework opportunities may be available; availability, hours, and duration of telework shall be approved as outlined in the Commonwealth’s telework policy.

Requirements

• Knowledge of agricultural marketing concepts, related regulations, and economic factors in order to provide effective guidance to the agricultural community and Division management.
• Knowledge of agricultural commodities and products, including growing practices, production details, and other agricultural business‑related specifics.
• Computer proficiency, exceptional organizational and project management skills, and the ability to work independently are required.
• Strong interpersonal skills, demonstrated through experience cultivating and maintaining internal and external professional relationships.
• Ability to establish professional working relationships across all areas of the agricultural sector, including producers, buyers, extension services, agribusiness, farm‑related organizations, and industry representatives.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, demonstrated through experiences such as speaking at events, preparing reports and correspondence, and representing the agency at industry functions.
• Demonstrated ability to design and implement marketing programs and activities; analyze and interpret statistical data related to agribusiness; and develop informational presentations, newsletters, and other educational materials.
• Must have & maintain a valid driver’s license & a driving record that reflects a sense of responsibility for highway safety.
• H.S. Diploma/GED required.

Preferred

• A combination of related education, training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge, skills, and abilities to include knowledge of or experience in marketing, agriculture, business, economics, or a related field.
• Knowledge of Virginia agricultural products is preferred.