Product Development Representative

Product Development Representative

Position Summary:

The Product Development Representative is responsible for supporting the development, testing, and introduction of new seed products into the market. This role involves working closely with the research and development (R&D) team, conducting field trials, and collaborating with growers to evaluate the performance of new seed varieties. The Product Development Representative also plays a critical role in gathering data and feedback to ensure that new products meet market demands and perform to the company’s standards. This position bridges the gap between R&D, sales, and marketing to ensure successful product launches.

Job Status: Full-Time/ Salaried/ Exempt

Reports to: Product Development Manager / R&D Director

Role Responsibilities:

Product Development and Field Trials:

• Assist in planning, coordinating, and executing field trials for new seed products to evaluate performance in various conditions.
• Work closely with growers to plant, monitor, and assess new seed varieties, ensuring that all trials are conducted according to company protocols.
• Collect and analyze data from field trials, including yield, disease resistance, pest tolerance, and overall crop performance.
• Provide regular updates and reports on trial progress and outcomes to the Product Development Manager and R&D team.
• Assist in developing new product specifications and ensure products meet market needs before commercialization.

Market and Customer Collaboration:

• Collaborate with growers, distributors, and other stakeholders to gather feedback on product performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Provide technical support to sales teams by offering insights and data from field trials that demonstrate product benefits and features.
• Work with the sales and marketing teams to prepare for new product launches, ensuring that trial results and product information are communicated effectively to customers.
• Attend grower meetings, trade shows, and industry events to promote new products and gather insights from the market.

Data Collection and Analysis:

• Maintain detailed records of all field trials, including data on planting, growth conditions, yield, and any issues encountered during trials.
• Analyze trial results to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for product improvement.
• Use data analysis tools and software to compile and present trial data in a clear and concise manner for internal and external use.
• Assist in compiling data for variety registration and regulatory submissions as required.

Product Support and Training:

• Provide technical training and support to sales teams and customers regarding the benefits and characteristics of new seed products.
• Prepare and present product performance reports, presentations, and technical bulletins for internal teams and external partners.
• Work with the sales team to develop marketing materials and product support documents that highlight trial outcomes and product advantages.

Education / Experience / Skills / Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Plant Science, Agriculture, or related field; advanced degree preferred.
• Experience in field trials, product development, or agronomy, preferably in the seed industry.
• Strong understanding of seed development, crop production systems, and agronomic practices.
• Hands-on experience in conducting field trials and managing research plots.
• Excellent data collection, analysis, and reporting skills, with proficiency in using data management software.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present technical information clearly to non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with cross-functional teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and data analysis software.
• Willingness to travel to field trial sites, grower meetings, and industry events as needed.

Job Expectations / Working Conditions:

• Ability to work in outdoor environments, including fields and research plots, in various weather conditions.
• Travel to field trial locations, meetings with growers, and industry events as required.
• Ability to lift and move equipment used in field trials and work in physically demanding conditions during planting and harvesting seasons.