Ensure a reliable, competitive and sustainable supply of key agricultural raw materials, primarily cochineal and sweet potato, by developing strong market intelligence, building and maintaining a robust supplier/farmer network, and supporting effective sourcing and negotiation decisions.
The role will develop a deep understanding of crop economics, production conditions, market dynamics, quality requirements and price trends, while maintaining close relationships with farmers and suppliers to support Oterra's supply continuity, quality and cost competitiveness.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive market intelligence for different raw materials, including production volumes, crop conditions, seasonality, supply/demand dynamics, price trends and market risks.
- Build and regularly update price and cost models, including farm-level production economics and key cost drivers, to support sourcing and negotiation decisions.
- Identify, assess and develop new farmers and suppliers, expanding and diversifying Oterra's sourcing network.
- Build strong, long-term relationships with existing farmers and suppliers through regular field visits and proactive communication.
- Negotiate commercial conditions within the established sourcing strategy and support the Category Manager in key supplier negotiations.
- Coordinate purchasing volumes, delivery schedules and required documentation with farmers and suppliers.
- Monitor supplier performance regarding quality, delivery, reliability and agreed commercial conditions.
- Partner with Quality and Operations to ensure raw materials meet Oterra's specifications, including periodic supervision of cochineal cleaning and quality standards.
- Identify potential supply, price, quality and agricultural risks and proactively recommend mitigation actions.
- Support crop forecasting and sourcing planning by providing reliable field and market information.
- Maintain accurate supplier, purchasing and market information in the applicable systems and reports.
- Ensure sourcing activities comply with Oterra's policies, ethical standards and applicable regulatory requirements.
- Collaborate closely with Global Sourcing, Operations, Quality, Supply Chain and Finance to ensure continuity and competitiveness of raw-material supply.
- Other role-related activities required by the direct supervisor
Education & Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, Agribusiness, Business Administration, or a related field.
- 2–5 years of relevant professional experience, preferably in agricultural sourcing, procurement, agribusiness, or related activities.
- Intermediate English proficiency.
- Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office.
- Previous experience with SAP is desirable.
- Valid A1 driver’s license.
Key Competencies:
- Strong collaboration skills across Sourcing, Operations, Quality, and Supply Chain.
- Strong negotiation and influencing skills, particularly when working directly with farmers and suppliers.
- Commercial mindset and strong cost awareness.
- Ability to understand agricultural markets, analyze market dynamics, and identify sourcing opportunities.
- Strong analytical thinking, planning, and organizational skills.
- High ethical standards and integrity when managing suppliers and commercial relationships.
- Location: Arequipa, Peru. Candidates must currently reside in the city of Arequipa.
Travel: Availability for regular travel, primarily within the region.