what is an agricultural consultant

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Agricultural consultants provide advice on the use and management of agricultural land. Typically they specialise either in business or technical expertise; specialists in the former area advise agricultural landowners on financial issues and business strategy, while technical specialists consider how to make the most effective use of the land.

The agricultural consultant advises clients on business decisions about the current operation of and future opportunities for the client’s enterprise. An AAC may focus on financial matters, business structure, human relations and personnel management, business succession planning, or production and operation issues.

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How do I become an agricultural consultant?

Agricultural consultants provide advice on the use and management of agricultural land. Typically they specialise either in business or technical expertise; specialists in the former area advise agricultural landowners on financial issues and business strategy, while technical specialists consider how to make the most effective use of the land.

How to become an agricultural consultant in the United States?

 · Agricultural consultants are professional problem solvers and also advisers employed by the agricultural community. The clients also include farmers, growers, landowners, conservation organisations and public bodies. Agricultural consultants provide advice in all matters like concerning the ownership and occupation of the land and rural businesses.

What is an agricultural consultant?

 · Agricultural consultants are experts in the field of agriculture who advise farmers on how to improve production and productivity. Agricultural consultants can be animal scientists, food scientists or even soil and plant scientists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that agricultural, food, soil and plant scientists comprised 31,000 members of America’s workforce …

What are Agricultural Consultants?

Agricultural Consulting Services Agricultural Consulting Services, Inc. (ACS) collects data and consults with farmers to help them grow better crops and navigate complex and changing environmental regulations. We help farmers optimize soil fertility, identify and control pests, and manage the land to minimize erosion and nutrient losses.

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What does an agriculture consultant do?

Agricultural consultants, sometimes known as agricultural extension service workers, live in rural communities and act as resources for farmers on a range of topics from agricultural technology to the issues facing the modern rural family.

What do you call an agricultural consultant?

Agricultural consultants are usually experts in the biology of domesticated plants. Agricultural consultants are sometimes referred to as agribusiness experts. To become an agricultural consultant, an individual must have a passion for farming and agriculture.

How do I become an agricultural consultant in Canada?

For a career in Agricultural Consultancy, you need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agricultural engineering, or agricultural science. However, it is preferable to have a master’s degree. This is because the career path requires a lot of knowledge and experience.

How do I become an agricultural consultant in South Africa?

Required Qualification/s In most cases, the qualification will take a total of 3 to 4 years to complete. You can opt to study a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Management, a Bachelor of Commerce in Agricultural Economics and Risk Management as well or a Diploma in Agriculture.

How much does a farm consultant earn?

Senior agricultural/horticultural consultants can earn bonuses, or a proportion of the income they generate for the business. Self-employed agricultural/horticultural consultants’ hourly rates range from $100 to over $150 an hour. Some earn more than $150,000 a year.

What qualifications do you need to an agricultural advisor?

Skills and qualitiesPractical experience and a sound knowledge of farm management.Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken.Ability to persuade and influence clients and maintain relationships.Good business acumen.Technical and analytical ability including good IT skills.More items…

How do I become a farm consultant?

To become an agricultural/horticultural consultant you usually need a Bachelor’s degree in one of the following:agricultural or horticultural science.commerce.agribusiness.environmental science.

What is a rural consultant?

As an independent consultant I work closely with farming businesses and families to help them to add value to their organisation. My work covers key challenges such as; diversifying income streams, dealing with the family issues related to succession planning, strategic planning and applying for grant support.

How do I become an agricultural consultant in Australia?

To become an agricultural consultant, you usually need to study a degree in agribusiness or a science degree, majoring in agricultural science or a related field. Some universities in Western Australia offer relevant courses. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information.

How do agricultural experts help farmers?

Agricultural experts can offer advice relating to weed control and pest prevention. Weeds and pests are known to destroy crops, a factor that will have adverse effects on the yields produced. When farmers follow advice given by qualified experts, they will be able to avoid such losses.

What is an extension officer?

Agricultural Extension Officers form a link between research and farmers. Agricultural Extension Officers communicate with farmers. supporting decision-making by providing information on sustain- able farming practices.

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What are the responsibilities of an agricultural consultant?

Responsibilities. As an agricultural consultant, you’ll need to: visit clients to identify and evaluate their business and/or technical requirements. assist clients with business planning, planning applications, government grant applications, legislative advice and new business ventures. collect and analyse data, …

What is agricultural consulting?

Agricultural consultants give specialist advice to agricultural and farming businesses to help them with technical, financial and commercial matters. As an agricultural consultant or adviser, you’ll work to ensure your clients’ businesses or enterprises are running as efficiently as possible. You’ll need to be aware of the business …

How is a commercial agricultural consultant’s salary determined?

In commercial agricultural consultancies, your salary may be determined by your performance and revenue earned. In the public and charity sector, development is likely to be linked to performance and level of responsibility.

How many members does the Association of Independent Crop Consultants have?

The Association of Independent Crop Consultants (AICC) has over 200 members.

What are the types of employment for agricultural consultants?

The main types of employment for agricultural consultants and advisers are: agricultural and environmental consultancies, such as ADAS. charitable organisations, such as the National Trust, and environmental and conservation bodies, such as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) and wildlife trusts.

Is agricultural consulting competitive?

Entry into agricultural consultancy and advisory work is competitive. A broad knowledge of agriculture and farm management is essential, as is experience of working in the industry. Without relevant experience, it’s difficult to find a way into an advisory or consultancy post.

Is it better to study business management or consulting?

Studying business management as part of a relevant degree course can be advantageous, particularly if you want to enter the business side of consultancy.

What is an agricultural consultant?

Agricultural consultants are professional problem-solvers and advisers employed by the agricultural community. Clients include farmers, growers, landowners, conservation organisations and public bodies. Agricultural consultants provide advice in all matters concerning the ownership and occupation of land and rural businesses.

What are the working hours for a farm?

Working hours: mainly Monday–Friday but actual hours vary depending on the season and may require visiting farms and attending meetings outside normal office hours particularly in busy periods. Location: in rural areas throughout the country. Opportunities for self-employment: can manage own farm.

How much does it cost to start an agricultural consulting business?

The cost to start a agricultural consulting business costs significantly less money than most businesses, ranging anywhere from 2,515 to 23,259.

Why is it important to spend time in agricultural consulting?

Competition is high when it comes to your agricultural consulting business, so it’s important that you spend a good amount of time analyzing the market and understanding where the demand lies.

What is the most common business model for consulting?

Here are a few of the most common consulting business models: 1. The Time-Based Model . This is one of the more traditional consulting business models – where your rate, terms, and scope of work are outlined at the very beginning of the project. Typically, with this model you would choose a day rate or an hourly rate.

What is Agro in Azerbaijan?

AS AGRO – This is one of the leading companies in Azerbaijan, providing a wide range of opportunities and solutions for farmers, retailers and investors around the world.As Agro (9.74M Alexa Ranking)

Is an agricultural consulting business self employed?

With a agricultural consulting business, you are typically self-employed and responsible for finding your own insurance, which can be quite costly and time-consuming.

Is there a business model for agricultural consulting?

With starting a agricultural consulting business, there is not just one business model to choose from. This field is amazing in that there are various different ways to make money. Although this may complicate things, it’s great to have different options and sources of revenue.

Is agricultural consulting a dull job?

With starting a agricultural consulting business, there is truly never a dull moment. Your job offers a lot of variety and allows you to meet interesting people from all walks of life.

How have agriculture and humankind transformed each other?

Agriculture and humankind have transformed each other for millennia, but new factors have altered the balance and accelerated the change. Disruptive technologies, relentless global competition, and urgent ecological concerns are forcing agribusiness leaders to undertake bold innovations that are sustainable—both for the planet and …

What dictates the margin of any crop?

A combination of factors, some economic, some biological, dictates the margin of any crop.

Types of Agricultural Consultant

  • As an agricultural consultant, you’ll usually consult on either technical or business matters. Technical consultants provide specialist advice on: 1. agronomy 2. environment and conservation 3. livestock 4. nutrition 5. waste management 6. other technical applications. Business consultants help with: 1. business planning 2. estate and financial man…

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Responsibilities

  • As an agricultural consultant, you’ll need to: 1. visit clients to identify and evaluate their business and/or technical requirements 2. assist clients with business planning, planning applications, government grant applications, legislative advice and new business ventures 3. collect and analyse data, crop yield and financial reports to measure performance 4. prepare or modify busi…

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Salary

  1. Starting salaries for consultants and advisers range from £20,000 to £27,000.
  2. With two to five years’ experience, you could earn between £27,000 and £40,000.
  3. Experienced consultants with five or more years of experience typically earn £30,000 to £50,000+.

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Working Hours

  • Working hours can be demanding and varied, depending on the season and clients’ needs. Regular hours of 9am-5pm are uncommon, as clients may need to meet in the evenings or at weekends. Unsocial hours are typically worked especially in busy periods. Part-time work and career breaks are possible for established advisers.

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What to Expect

  1. Working time is usually split between the office and the outdoors, although this can vary depending on the role. For example, crop consultancy involves spending most of your time out of the office,…
  2. Self-employmentcan be an option once you’ve gained experience and established a network of contacts. It’s common to work from home if you’re self-employed.
  1. Working time is usually split between the office and the outdoors, although this can vary depending on the role. For example, crop consultancy involves spending most of your time out of the office,…
  2. Self-employmentcan be an option once you’ve gained experience and established a network of contacts. It’s common to work from home if you’re self-employed.
  3. Opportunities are spread throughout the UK and as a new entrant to the industry, you may need to be flexible about the location of your job.
  4. Although previously a male-dominated occupation, more women are now entering the profession.

Qualifications

  • A degree in agriculture or another relevant subject is usually required. The following subjects may increase your chances: 1. agricultural engineering 2. animal or biological science 3. crop and plant science 4. environmental science 5. horticulture 6. soil science. Studying business management as part of a relevant degree course can be advantageous, particularly if you want to enter the bu…

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Skills

  • You will need to have: 1. good communication skills, for establishing and developing relationships with clients 2. marketing, negotiation and advisory skills, for the development of new business opportunities and the building of a client base 3. technical and analytical skills with the ability to explain findings clearly 4. the ability to work on your own initiative and as part of a team 5. finan…

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Work Experience

  • Entry into agricultural consultancy and advisory work is competitive. A broad knowledge of agriculture and farm management is essential, as is experience of working in the industry. Without relevant experience, it’s difficult to find a way into an advisory or consultancy post. Try to gain practical experience of farm management, rural surveying or planning, or other types of agricultu…

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Employers

  • Some of the larger agricultural consultancies offer graduate recruitment schemes, generally focusing on farm management and agricultural business. These are usually advertised as they become available. The development of a strong CV and cover letteris essential, along with the ability to develop a network of contacts. The main types of employment for agricultural consulta…

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Professional Development

  • The training you’ll receive will vary depending on the size of the company and the needs of the business. You may be given in-house training supervised by a senior and more experienced colleague or a mixture of external short courses and project work. If you’re a consultant working on the technical side of agricultural consultancy you may need to undergo specific training. For …

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Work Activities

  • An agricultural consultant or adviser may be a business or a technical specialist and their work varies depending on the employing organisation but can include: 1. Corresponding with clients to identify and evaluate their business or technical requirements. 2. Measuring performance and analysing data such as crop yield. 3. Attending meetings, organ…

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Work Conditions

  • Travel: during the working day is frequent. Working hours: mainly Monday–Friday but actual hours vary depending on the season and may require visiting farms and attending meetings outside normal office hours particularly in busy periods. Location: in rural areas throughout the country. Opportunities for self-employment: can manage own farm.

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Typical Employers

  1. Commercial agri-consultancies
  2. Banks
  3. Relevant government departments
  4. Agricultural advisory body – Teagasc

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Career Development

  • Career development will depend very much on the employing organisation and promotion to senior consultant based on experience and performance is possible. Consultants will typically go on to specialise in a particular niche. For example forestry consultancy, acquisitions and negotiation, EU and Government related schemes, insurance claims, environmental consultancy …

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Specific Degree Subjects Required

  • While there are exceptions, such as for those working as agricultural consultants in banks, normally a degree in agriculture or other relevant subject is required.

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Other Relevant Degree Subjects

  1. Agricultural engineering
  2. Agricultural Science
  3. Agri-Environmental science
  4. Animal production

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Specific Entry Requirements

  • Membership of ACA (Agricultural Consultants Association) is open to professional (level eight) graduates in agriculture, environmental science, horticulture and forestry. New members need a minimum level of two years experience and evidence of professional indemnity insurance.

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Training

  • Training will vary depending on employer but can consist of in-house training combined with short external courses.

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Tips For Applications

  • Gain relevant farm experience particularly during the summer vacation months. Read relevant publications such as the Farmer’s Journal.

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Skills and Qualities

  1. Practical experience and a sound knowledge of farm management.
  2. Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken.
  3. Ability to persuade and influence clients and maintain relationships
  4. Good business acumen.

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