Farm Financial Manager

The Farm Financial Manager is responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of the farm, including budgeting, forecasting, accounting, financial reporting, risk management, and compliance. This role requires a strong understanding of agricultural practices, financial principles, and business management. The Farm Financial Manager works closely with farm owners, managers, and other stakeholders to optimize financial performance and support strategic decision-making.

Responsibilities:

• Financial Planning and Budgeting:
  • Develop and manage annual operating budgets and long-term financial plans.
  • Forecast income and expenses based on production plans, market trends, and economic conditions.
  • Analyze budget variances and recommend corrective actions.
• Accounting and Financial Reporting:
  • Maintain accurate financial records, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and inventory.
  • Prepare and analyze financial statements (balance sheets, income statements, cash flow statements).
  • Generate regular financial reports for management and stakeholders.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable accounting standards and regulations.
• Cash Flow Management:
  • Monitor and manage cash flow to ensure adequate liquidity for operations.
  • Develop and implement cash flow forecasting and management strategies.
  • Optimize working capital management.
• Financial Analysis and Decision Support:
  • Conduct financial analysis to evaluate the profitability of different farming activities and investments.
  • Provide financial insights and recommendations to support strategic decision-making.
  • Perform cost-benefit analysis of capital expenditures and other investments.
  • Analyze market trends, and make reports on the effects on the farm.

• Risk Management:
  • Identify and assess financial risks, including market risk, production risk, and credit risk.
  • Develop and implement risk management strategies, such as insurance, hedging, and diversification.
  • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of risk management activities.
• Loan and Debt Management:
  • Manage relationships with lenders and financial institutions.
  • Negotiate loan terms and conditions.
  • Monitor and manage debt levels and repayment schedules.
• Compliance and Regulatory Reporting:
  • Ensure compliance with all relevant tax laws, environmental regulations, and other legal requirements.
  • Prepare and file tax returns and other regulatory reports.
  • Stay up to date on all changes to agricultural financial regulations.
• Technology and Systems:
  • Utilize accounting software and other financial management tools.
  • Implement and maintain financial information systems.
  • Stay up to date on new financial technologies.
• Collaboration:
  • Work closely with farm owners, managers, production staff, and external advisors.
  • Communicate financial information effectively to non-financial stakeholders.
  • Assist with the development of business plans.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, agricultural economics, or a related field.
• Proven experience in financial management, preferably in the agricultural industry.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting.
• Proficiency in financial analysis and budgeting.
• Knowledge of agricultural practices and market trends.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of agricultural tax laws.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation.
• Master's degree in a relevant field.
• Experience with farm management software.
• Experience with commodity hedging.

Key Skills:

• Financial analysis
• Budgeting and forecasting
• Accounting and financial reporting
• Cash flow management
• Risk management
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Attention to detail
• Knowledge of agricultural practices.

Closing Date: 03 April 2025