POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT
Title: Senior Economist – Crops Markets
Department: Economic Analysis
Function:
Develop research, policy analysis, presentations and commentaries on a wide variety of economic questions and issues of importance to farmers and United States agricultural sector particularly to those producing row crops.
Reportability:
Reports to Chief Economist.
Specialization:
1. Be well versed in markets, production systems, market structures, risk management, export issues and other factors affecting the livelihood of row crop producers in the United States
2. Be familiar with the data sets needed to analyze timely questions on subjects important to the industry, and take responsibility for ensuring the organization has the latest information available.
3. Ability to assist in developing the Department’s work plan for the upcoming operational period.
Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Provide written economic policy analyses and commentaries in support of Farm Bureau policy activities for AFBF and state Farm Bureau staff, volunteer leaders and interested people outside Farm Bureau.
2. Provide economic presentations to state Farm Bureau groups and other audiences explaining the economics of Farm Bureau policy positions.
3. Work with other Farm Bureau teams in ensuring a coordinated effort on crop commodity markets and policies associated with those markets.
4. Represent Farm Bureau at professional and semi-professional economic meetings and other functions to explain Farm Bureau policy positions and gain knowledge about policy issues.
5. Respond to media and other inquiries concerning the economic aspects of Farm Bureau policy work.
6. Work with various AFBF task forces, study groups, staff committees, working groups and AFBF meeting activities to provide economic input.
7. Work with outside economic consultants on a regular basis and on special economic research projects in support of Farm Bureau policies.
8. Arrange conferences and meetings on economic policy issues for state Farm Bureau staff and volunteer leaders.
9. Maintain professional competence by attending and participating in professional meetings, seminars and other activities to improve individual skills and abilities.
Authority:
In cooperation with the Chief Economist, plan a work schedule for research and analyses on crops and other economic issues.
Transmit research findings and analyses after internal discussion and coordination with the Chief Economist.
Carryout travel, memberships, conferences and special projects within the budget established for the Department.
Relationships:
Economists work directly with a wide range of AFBF and state Farm Bureau staff, state Farm Bureau volunteer leaders, other industry leaders, government officials, members of the media and other individuals interested in crop commodity markets.
Education/Experience:
Candidate should have at least a Masters Degree in Agricultural Economics or similar field and have 5-8 years experience in analyzing and reporting on commodity markets with particular emphasis on traditional grains, oilseeds and fibers. Extension experience is considered a definite plus.
Travel:
Individual in this position should expect to travel on a regular basis, as often as once a week during some of the heavier meeting periods.
Salary:
Commensurate with experience and in line with AFBF compensation schedules.
Please send cover letter and resume to Stefphanie Gambrell, Human Resources Generalist, American Farm Bureau Federation, 600 Maryland Avenue SW, Suite 1000W, Washington DC, 20024. Electronic applications will be accepted at sgambrell@aaic.com
Posted: 09/08/2010
