Head of Agriculture at Mumias Sugar

Responsible for developing and implementing strategies to ensure high quality Cane is provided to sustain Factory throughput by use of most suitable economical crop production techniques and ensure that farmers earn a decent return on their investment in cane production

Responsibilities

• Carry out adaptive research that addresses the major challenges facing crop husbandry focusing on crop & soil nutrition, crop protection, variety development, crop physiology and quality assurance.
• Responsible for the extension and education of our farmers to ensure technology transfer of research findings and proper agronomic husbandry practices are carried out to sustain crop production
• Ensuring proper land preparation for crop growth by ensuring machinery are available for end-users to maximize on productivity and time
• Ensure that the company fleet are managed as required for efficient operations
• Ensure the timely supply of the right quality and quantity of cane to the factory to meet the organizations targets as set out in the strategic plan.
• Develop strategic alliances and working relationships with stakeholders to ensure continued availability of quality cane at low costs and of quality to meet the annual factory demands
• Lead the formulation and implementation of strategic and operational plans for the department that are in line with MSC business goals
• Provide technical and administrative guidance to all the staff in the fields for the attainment of the goals and ensure sufficient staffing of Agricultural operations
• Establishing and maintaining agronomy database and oversee cane nurseries
• Ensure safety in all staff operations through adherence to safety regulations when carrying out farm operations;
• Prepare regular financial and administrative reports
• Prepare and control operational budget

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture and Agriculture Engineering from a recognized University
• A Master’s degree in Agriculture and or a related field
• A minimum of Ten (10) years’ experience with at least five (5) spent at senior management level in a significant Organization
• Excellent leadership competencies including analytical skills, organization and coordination skills, and ability to make difficult decision