How to become an agricultural business manager

Is becoming an agricultural business manager right for me?

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Overview
What do agricultural business managers do?

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How to become an Agricultural Business Manager

Becoming an agricultural business manager involves a combination of education, relevant experience, and specific skills. Here are the general steps you can take to pursue a career as an agricultural business manager:

  • Obtain a Relevant Degree: While not always required, obtaining a Bachelor's Degree in Agricultural Business, Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, or a related field can provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary for a career in agricultural business management. Some colleges and universities offer specialized programs specifically tailored to agricultural business management.
  • Gain Practical Experience: Gain practical experience in the agricultural industry through internships, summer jobs, or entry-level positions. This hands-on experience will help you develop a better understanding of agricultural operations, industry trends, and business practices. Look for opportunities to work on farms, ranches, agricultural cooperatives, agribusinesses, or related organizations to gain valuable experience.
  • Build a Professional Network: Build a strong professional network within the agricultural industry by attending industry conferences, workshops, trade shows, and networking events. Connect with professionals in agricultural businesses, industry associations, government agencies, and academic institutions to learn about job opportunities, gain insights into the industry, and build relationships that can help advance your career.
  • Pursue Advanced Education or Certifications: Consider pursuing advanced education, such as a master's degree or MBA with a focus on agricultural business management, to enhance your qualifications and marketability. Additionally, obtaining professional certifications related to agricultural business management, such as the Certified Agricultural Consultant (CAC) or Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) certification, can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.
  • Gain Management Experience: Gain experience in management and leadership roles by taking on progressively responsible positions within agricultural enterprises or related industries. Seek opportunities to lead teams, oversee projects, and make strategic decisions to demonstrate your managerial capabilities and readiness for higher-level positions in agricultural business management.

Certifications
Obtaining relevant certifications can enhance your skills, knowledge, and marketability within the agricultural industry. Here are some certifications that agricultural business managers may consider pursuing:

  • Certified Agricultural Consultant (CAC): Offered by the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA), the CAC certification is designed for professionals who provide consulting services to agricultural clients. The certification program covers topics such as farm management, agricultural economics, finance, marketing, and risk management.
  • Certified Crop Adviser (CCA): Offered by the American Society of Agronomy (ASA), the CCA certification is designed for professionals who provide agronomic advice and services to farmers and agricultural producers. The certification program covers topics such as crop production, soil fertility, pest management, nutrient management, and environmental stewardship.
  • Accredited Farm Manager (AFM): Offered by the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA), the AFM accreditation is designed for professionals who specialize in farm management services. The accreditation program covers topics such as farm operations, land management, financial analysis, leasing arrangements, and estate planning.
  • Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) - Agribusiness and Food Marketing: Offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA), the PCM certification in Agribusiness and Food Marketing is designed for professionals who specialize in marketing and sales within the agricultural industry. The certification program covers topics such as market research, product development, branding, pricing, distribution, and promotional strategies specific to agribusinesses and food companies.
  • Certified Agricultural Finance Professional (CAFP): Offered by the American Bankers Association (ABA), the CAFP certification is designed for professionals who specialize in agricultural finance and lending. The certification program covers topics such as agricultural credit analysis, loan structuring, risk management, regulatory compliance, and financial management specific to agricultural businesses.