Relationship Manager–Account Development & Agronomy

Relationship Manager–Account Development & Agronomy Support

This position combines territory sales, account development, and agronomy support. The Relationship Manager is responsible for growing sample volume and revenue within a defined territory, building and maintaining strong customer and partner relationships, providing agronomic guidance and sampling education, ensuring exceptional customer experience from first contact through results, and acting as a field ambassador for Ward Labs at events, trade shows, and community activities.

• Grow the assigned territory by increasing sample volume and revenue with new and existing customers.
• Conduct regular on-farm and in-office visits with farmers and ranchers, crop consultants and independent agronomists, co-ops, retailers, ag service providers, custom manure/slurry applicators, and wastewater operators.
• Identify and pursue new markets and underserved customer segments.
• Execute a strategic territory sales plan that aligns with Ward Labs’ growth objectives.
• Conduct follow-up after sample results to support customers and strengthen loyalty.
• Track activity, leads, and opportunities using CRM tools.

• Regularly review seasonal sampling volume with the HR Business Manager to prepare for workload fluctuations.
• Coordinate with the Lab Manager, department supervisors, and sample processing team to ensure communication of customer needs and project deadlines.
• Ensure quotes and customer inquiries are handled accurately, promptly, and according to established procedures.
• Help resolve customer concerns by investigating issues, identifying solutions, and following up to ensure satisfaction.
• Provide feedback to lab leadership on recurring issues, customer needs, and opportunities for process improvements.

• Participate in marketing campaigns, product promotions, and customer outreach programs.
• Represent Ward Labs at conferences, field days, trade shows, and community events.
• Maintain the highest level of professionalism and act as a positive brand ambassador.
• Support PR efforts by engaging with local stakeholders, ag organizations, and partner agencies.

• Strong leadership and self-management, with the ability to independently operate a large territory.
• Excellent interpersonal communication across diverse personalities, with integrity and honesty.
• Strategic thinker who understands agricultural testing markets and can align scientific concepts with business needs.
• Positive attitude and strong work ethic within the culture, values, and mission of Ward Laboratories.
• Detail-oriented but capable of maintaining a broader perspective.
• Highly organized, managing multiple priorities, deadlines, and customer interactions simultaneously.
• Proficiency with CRM systems and lead management tools.

• Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Ag-Business, or related field.
• 1–3 years of experience in agriculture or sales/account management.
• Familiarity with farming and ranching practices.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Willingness to travel frequently (both day and overnight trips).
• Professional appearance and conduct.

• CCA certification (or willingness to obtain).
• Previous experience with agricultural lab services, fertilizer/crop consulting, or agronomy sales.
• Existing network within the central U.S. ag industry.
• Ability to explain soil health tests, manure analysis, plant tissue reports, and water quality testing at a high level.