Agriculture Market Team Leader

Agriculture Market Specialist Team Leader

The Agriculture Market Specialist Team Leader position serves within the Marketing and Governmental Affairs Division of the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce (MDAC). This division is responsible for promoting Mississippi agriculture and the state's agricultural products while working with policymakers and stakeholders on key issues. Core functions of the division include outreach/communications, market development programs, and grant and cost-share programs.

The job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Plans, directs, and coordinates promotional and assistive services and programs affecting agriculture or agribusiness industries in the state.
• Promotes Mississippi products globally and provides assistance to agribusinesses for international trade efforts.
• Serves as MDAC's representative to the Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA) and actively engages with SUSTA through the management of SUSTA-led export activities.
• Promotes the department, its programs, and Mississippi agriculture by attending, speaking, and participating in various events such as field days, school activities, trade shows, and conferences as needed.
• Will travel domestically and internationally as needed.
• Assists with planning and implementing agency activities for Genuine MS®, Farmers Markets, Mississippi State Fair, Dixie National Livestock Show and Rodeo, conferences, and other events as needed.
• Other duties as assigned by the Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce, Chief of Staff, Deputy Commissioner, and/or Marketing and Governmental Affairs Director.

What you'll need to be successful:

• Organizational and time management skills.
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Program management skills.
• Computer skills including various Microsoft Office Programs.
• Background or knowledge of agriculture is preferred.
• Knowledge and understanding of Mississippi agriculture and the state's major agricultural commodities and agribusiness industries.
• General knowledge of international agricultural trade and export promotion.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Typically requires a Bachelor's Degree and 3+ years of experience in agricultural programs.
• Hiring agency prefers experience planning, coordinating, implementing, and evaluating programs and promotional activities.