Founded in 1851, Louis Dreyfus Company is a leading merchant and processor of agricultural goods. Our activities across a diversified range of business lines span the entire value chain, from origination to distribution, helping to feed and clothe up to 500 million people every year. Our strong values, rich heritage, and clear vision for a safe and sustainable future guide us in our work to contribute to the global effort of providing sustenance for a growing population.
The Senior Oilseeds Buyer is responsible for procuring canola from producer customers, as well as building and managing the customer base which may involve customized marketing plans. This position is responsible for contract implementation, execution and management of contract until time of delivery. This position understands how profits are generated in different market conditions and how the various contracts support that goal. This position will also be responsible for providing guidance and training to other buyers. This position requires constant communication with staff & customers – answering questions, providing updates and forwarding information in a timely fashion.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop and manage customer base and producer relationships via face-to-face meetings, emails and telephone calls
- Coordinate deliveries with producers to maximize delivery opportunities
- Arrange and manage delivery schedules of canola in coordination with procurement manager, using telephone and meetings
- Attend producer meetings sometimes after hours
- Manage producer discrepancies on canola related issues verbally
- Manage / update information on web page
- Negotiate trucking rates and manage trucking premiums, manage grain deals in conjunction with procurement manager web-based information and conference calls with head office
- Monitor regional crop quality, quantity accurately, market intelligence, competition bids etc and report information to HO via emails and telephone
- Assist in the decision making with the procurement manager on space allocation and how to maximize space in managing ownership.
- Manage IP programs and communicate information to head office
- Assist procurement manager in the decision making of projecting budgets on canola handling and shipping to maximize storage revenue and income.
- Monitor canola prices, basis levels, fundamental and technical market factors at all times in order to talk intelligently to customers about the market and procure grain.
- Support in training/management of canola procurement team and administration
Required Skills
- Customer relationship management
- Strong organizational, time management, problem solving and communication skills as well as the ability to adapt to change.
- Strong public speaking and presentation skills
- Knowledge of grain weighing and grading procedures and policies.
- Solid understanding of the function of the futures market and the terminology including basis, futures, cash market, and options.
Required Experience
- 5+ years of experience in grain buying and/or with grain marketing, sales, or origination.