Technical Service Manager

Function Overview

The Technical Service Manager (TSM) handles all the technical support functions for their area on behalf of FMC. This person works closely with the sales team and the regional sales leadership in the region. The research testing funds to the universities flow through the Technical Services Manager as does training presentations, localized sales tools and customer complaints. The TSM collaborates closely with the other technical support personnel outside the local geography as well as the marketing, regulatory and product development groups. The TSM will work closely with the Regional Technical Manager to ensure the technical focus of the region is in harmony with the technical focus across the North America Crop Business.

Responsibilities

• Maintain strong technical knowledge of commercial agriculture, new technologies and competitive chemistries & positioning impacting the business
• Build strong working relationships with university extension personnel and other important influencers in the territory
• Leverage connections to ensure they are adequately prepared to recommend FMC products upon launch and that FMC and our products are represented fairly in publications and in live field and industry events
• Manage, implement & supervise research testing funds and influence trial plans through the grant-in-aid (GIA) budget that are aligned with regional sales and marketing objectives
• Develop, execute & supervise appropriate support activities aligned with key initiatives as outlined in the annual FMC Goals and Objectives
• Work hand in hand with Product Development teammates to ensure testing programs are aligned with market trends and upcoming development projects as launch time approaches
• Manage expenses, service to sales dollars & product demo budget consistent & aligned with key regional initiatives
• Provide technical product training & give regional guidance on complaint handling and assist Field Sales Representatives (FSRs) in complaint calls where necessary for agronomic expertise, problem diagnosis, and input on resolution
• Develop various training modules and provide technical consulting and training to internal and external groups, focusing on new product launches
• Carefully review, edit and approve technical, sales, marketing and or advertising communications
• Continue to strengthen the communication between other regional technical support groups and internal functional groups

Required Education

• MS in Entomology, Plant Pathology/Physiology, Weed Science, Agronomy or other agricultural/related science or equivalent experience
• PhD preferred

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in technical support, selling chemical crop protection, seed or agronomy services
• Certified Crop Advisor or equivalent certification desired
• Excellent speaking, writing, and computer skills
• Working knowledge of ARMA
• Capability to design protocols and research projects that creatively and effectively demonstrate the features and benefits of agronomic inputs
• Proven ability to effectively summarize technically complex information to an audience with more limited technical expertise
• Demonstrated ability to operate effectively under pressure, navigate contentious situations and resolve conflict
• Demonstrated ability to build, sustain and service strong business relationships with customers, agronomy staff of key retail accounts, and teammates
• Demonstrated ability to make decisions under minimum supervision; partners with leadership on decisions of a complex nature
• Demonstrated ability to make decisions of a complex through independent judgment and creativity
• Demonstrated ability to effectively negotiate with customers, teammates and management
• Experience leading projects or special assignment involving work outside the area/region with little guidance
• Experience as a valuable technical resource to others within the sales organization

FMC is an equal opportunity employer.

We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Employment decisions at FMC are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications. We value diversity and strive to ensure that our hiring and employment practices support a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment.