The position is responsible for developing and implementing business plans for Cotton including accountability for related financial results with significant profit and loss.  In addition, the position has primary responsibility for managing relationships with key suppliers and regional end-user customers.  This position is also accountable for developing and implementing strategic business plans and oversight of the storage/logistics assets to achieve a balance between profitability, market share and customer service.

Accountable for the development and implementation of procurement, processing and execution strategies to achieve planned volume and revenue targets. Negotiates and manages supply agreements with regional end-user clients. Tracks progress towards the achievement of business plans and objectives, and initiates action as required. Manages and maintains key contacts with suppliers and regional end users to build relationships and ensure customer satisfaction, adherence to contract terms and the growth and maintenance of strong business relationships. Manages regional reporting, ensuring timely and accuracy to global Cotton team, including regional cash prices, Supply and demand models and market activity. Identifies and analyzes opportunities in delivery and stopping economics between the ICE Futures and cash spot prices. Manages quality and geographic arbitrage in conjunction with Merchandising and logistics team to ensure origination is optimized against global values in the export market and in conjunction with global cotton strategy. Manages storage/logistic optimization and efficient utilization of capital. Responsible for all aspects of the team’s human resource management including hiring, promoting, performance management and discharging within company policy. Lead, coach and manage the team to ensure excellence, awareness and commitment to the client, team and the department’s goals and objectives. Accountable for safety and provision of a healthy working environment for all staff consistent with company policies and regulations. Liaises with Environment, Health & Safety to develop, implement and support proactive health, safety, environmental and security programs. Responsible for the effective and efficient management of fixed and mobile assets within a defined region. Develops key communication links to ensure optimal use of Viterra facilities, an understanding and awareness of market requirements, building relationships and facilitating the effectiveness of integrated systems. Analyzes and manages commodity position and associated risks including producer contracting, warehousing, marketing and hedging. Manages Cotton inventories including forward purchases, warehouse stock and pipeline inventory to ensure optimal profitability by managing grade and transportation spreads, carrying costs, basis and flat positions, futures position and the forward marketplace in both the cash and futures market. Manages credit requirements, contract terms, contract entry and disbursal, transportation capacity and contract administration to ensure that contract terms are adhered to and accounts remain current. In conjunction with the Merchandising and Logistics team, ensures competitive freight rates and the coordination of commodity sourcing and transportation logistics in order to effectively meet contract terms. Prepares and submits regular and ad hoc reports regarding achievements, opportunities and issues. Maintains an up-to-date knowledge of domestic market trends and competitor activities, revising marketing strategies and programs to capitalize on identified opportunities. Represents the Cotton division at various internal and external meetings, committees and associations. Including North American cotton division representative at Global trade meeting. Performs other duties as required.

Qualifications: 

Minimum of ten (10) years progressively responsible experience in commodity merchandising and/or management of production. 

University degree in Agriculture or Commerce or equivalent. 

Equivalent combinations of education and experience that result in the required level of knowledge skill and competence will be considered.

Familiarity with the Cotton industry regulations and policies. Computer competent in word processing, spreadsheet and database software applications. Demonstrated ability to develop and lead an effective safety culture in operations. Proven ability to assess risk and exercise sound judgment in decision making including significant profit and loss responsibility. Demonstrated negotiation skills and a proactive approach in pursuing new business and building relationships with end-user clients. Experience and proven ability in the creation of sales and marketing programs together with the ability to lead and motivate others. Strong planning and communication skills along with the capability to manage change.