Branch activity director in an agricultural cooperative

An agricultural cooperative is a business established and governed by farmers, each of whom holds shares in the organization. They are both owners and suppliers, providing agricultural, animal, or plant-based products that are collected and processed by the cooperative into consumer goods. Farmers can also be customers, purchasing seeds, fertilizers, and other essential products for their farms.

Agricultural cooperatives can be generalist or specialized (e.g., grains, dairy, meat, sugar). In generalist cooperatives, activities are organized into “branches,” each managed by a Branch Activity Director.

Key Responsibilities of a Branch Activity Director in an Agricultural Cooperative

Reporting to the General Director of the cooperative, the Branch Activity Director is responsible for:

• Managing the branch’s upstream and downstream operations in alignment with the cooperative’s resources and objectives.
• Developing the commercial strategy and increasing market presence.
• Leading and managing teams, fostering collaboration and performance.
• Optimizing and structuring the branch’s industrial tools and infrastructure.
• Representing the cooperative both internally (to members) and externally (local stakeholders, elected officials, industry organizations), serving as an ambassador for the branch.
• Working closely with the group’s executive management, elected representatives, and other branch directors.

Required Skills for a Branch Activity Director in an Agricultural Cooperative

• Strong ability to collaborate closely with executive leadership, elected representatives, and key industry stakeholders.
• Comfortable in commercial negotiations, with a results-driven approach.
• Proven leadership, networking skills, and strategic mindset.
• Experience in senior management roles within the agriculture or agri-food sectors.