Commercial Planner

The primary purpose of this role is to be the link between the blueberry growers and the packhouse and the commercial managers. During harvesting season, the commercial planner is responsible to get the weekly crop estimates from the growers via an app, Device Magic. The collected estimates is then displayed on a dashboard to get a holistic view of the blueberry supply. During the weekly commercial meetings, this is used as a starting point to decide what volume of fruit can be offered to clients.

There is various other information that has to be gathered from and communicated to growers and other stakeholders for which the commercial planner is also responsible.

• Set up Supply/Demand tracker
  
• Capture all pre-season grower crop estimates into the Supply/Demand tracker
  
• Set up client programmes in the United Exports Demand programme format (Master programme Workbook)
  
• Capture all pre-season client programs into the Supply/Demand tracker
  
• Set-up and host daily stock meetings, flag any old stock and ensure any issues on stock sheet is clarified with packhouse
  
• Communicate confirmed orders from clients via a packing instruction to the packhouses this is done as and when orders are received but also ONCE on a Thursday for the following weeks orders
  
• Ensure that the packing instructions are sent out promptly and that all details such as packaging material, varietal specifications and delivery dates are correct
  
• Follow up with the packhouse to make sure orders are completed. Communicate any issues to the relevant commercial, technical and packaging managers
  
• Assist with gathering requested information from growers via the supplier information sheets which are sent out pre-season
  
• Keep the Grower Matrix updated with the latest grower details.
  
• Update producer contact list
  
• End of Season Grower Reviews prepare data and drive process with Data Science team, coordinate grower meetings to discuss report
  
• New/special market requirements with assistance of Logistics
  
• Collate information and update the packing guide
  
• Assist in updating the Blueberry Profile Presentation (Farm profiles, variety calendars, etc)
  
• Packaging and brand planning for packhouses based on Far East Supply / Demand and comparing to previous season and anticipated YOY growth
  

Requirements

• Senior certificate / grade 12 / matric
  
• Suitable tertiary qualification
  
• Minimum 2 years of work experience
  

Functional/Technical /Leadership/Behavioural

• Computer literacy: MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
  
• Excellent Email etiquette
  
• Excellent communication skills; verbal and written.
  
• Excellent planning, organisational skills.
  
• Building and maintaining good interpersonal relationships.
  
• Detail and results orientated.
  
• Ability to act with tact and discretion.