Precision Ag Manager
General Purpose
This role will be responsible for driving market adoption of new and existing technology, leading product testing and demonstration strategies, overseeing customer and dealer technology support, and ensuring both internal and external confidence in our solutions.
Essential Functions
Develop and execute strategies to position AVE-PLP as the Precision Ag market leader.
Lead and manage the combined Product Innovation and Product Support teams, ensuring high performance, collaboration, and professional growth.
Drive results for PAES (Precision Ag Engagement Score) and Highly Engaged Acre initiatives through strategic planning, execution, and communication.
Lead the testing, evaluation, and launch of new product offerings.
Maintain deep knowledge of all saleable new/used equipment, features/benefits, and technology integration.
Partner with internal departments and OEMs to anticipate emerging technology trends and ensure rapid adoption.
Create systems for proactive monitoring of customer equipment to reduce downtime and improve satisfaction.
Develop customer support schedules and allocate resources across business units for in-season and off-season needs.
Identify common challenges and develop proactive solutions, including educational content and training materials.
Serve as the internal and external technical specialist for John Deere precision farming products.
Coordinate internal and external training on precision ag products, services, and resources.
Promote teamwork, positive culture, and the “one face to our customers” philosophy across all locations.
Share best practices and solutions with customers and internal teams to continuously improve service and adoption rates.
Qualifications
Supervisory Duties: Responsible for the supervision of the Product Innovation and Product Support teams.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Ability to consistently promote, support, work, and act in a manner in supporting AVE-PLP’s DNA; Strong data management abilities; proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and related tools; ability to analyze and interpret data; Demonstrated success in leading teams, managing projects, and driving strategic initiatives; Solutions-oriented approach with the ability to anticipate and address customer needs; Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills; ability to build relationships in person, over the phone, and via digital platforms; Able to multitask, prioritize, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Education: Associate’s degree or higher in agriculture or related field, or equivalent experience.
Experience: 5+ years in an agricultural-related role (sales, service, training, or support); prior experience with John Deere technology preferred.
Additional Requirements/Licenses/Certifications: Must have reliable transportation. Must have a valid driver’s license. Passing a driving record (MVR), criminal history background checks, employment verification, and drug screen will be required prior to the start of employment. Extensive travel will be required during peak seasons. Experience operating large agricultural equipment is preferred. Previous use of farm management software. Certified Crop Advisor Preferred.
Working Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical Activities
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. May involve climbing ladders, stairs, steps, and traversing catwalk grating, pushing, pulling, bending, stooping, and kneeling on a frequent basis and working in confined space and manual dexterity required to complete work tasks through safe and proper operation of power and hand tools, and motor vehicles. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and ability to adjust focus. Moving, positioning, and carrying loads of up to 5 pounds upstairs and loading on four-foot-high surfaces frequently. Physically able to conduct inspections and carry equipment used for inspections. Moderate physical work involves lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 25 pounds frequently and 75 pounds occasionally.