Customer Account Specialist

Company Description

Syngenta is a global leader in agriculture; rooted in science and dedicated to bringing plant potential to life. Each of our 30,000 employees in more than 90 countries work together to solve one of humanity’s most pressing challenges: growing more food with fewer resources. A diverse workforce and an inclusive workplace environment are enablers of our ambition to be the most collaborative and trusted team in agriculture. Our employees reflect the diversity of our customers, the markets where we operate and the communities which we serve. No matter what your position, you will have a vital role in safely feeding the world and taking care of our planet. Join us and help shape the future of agriculture.

Job Description

Through leading innovations, we help farmers around the world meet the challenge of feeding a growing population and taking care of our planet. We are currently seeking a Customer Account Specialist for our Ag Production & Supply- Supply & Logistics team in Minnesota. 
Role Purpose / Accountabilities

• Responsible for managing the business of assigned accounts.
• Ensures the accuracy and timeliness of all order management and fulfilment transactions for their accounts.
• Demonstrates extensive knowledge of sales programs and policies.
• Accountable for a high-level of customer satisfaction. Anticipates situations and develops approaches that maximize business opportunities.
• Proactively finds new ways to build the client’s business and grow accounts.
• Supports and collaborates with business unit management in achieving targeted goals to maintain renewal business.
• Independently visits customers and attends field/sales meetings.
• Proactive identification and participation on and contribution to external departmental teams.
• Proactively communicates issue(s) and resolution(s) to all affected.
• Demonstrates in-depth knowledge of SAP system and recommends enhancements.
• May supervise the work of other team members in the assignment of tasks. Mentors others in the department. 

Qualifications

• Understands agronomics and product positioning in marketplace.  
• Capability to assist in other non Service Center Rep roles within the Department as business changes dictate.
• Flexibility to understand and accept additional responsibilities within other Commercial Unit BU Teams as business changes dictate.
• Effectively communicate with key internal stakeholders and customers

Critical experience

• This position requires a high school degree for levels I, II, and III; preference for a Bachelor’s degree. 
• A Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Agriculture, Business or accounting, is required for senior level.  The candidate must demonstrate the following abilities: customer connection, results orientation and team orientation.
• General understanding of Crop Protection, Seeds, and/or Ag industry
• Identifies business opportunities and develops and implements required tactics.
• Leads by example - Interpersonal awareness, positive attitude.   Assumes responsibility for and represents management role on business teams.  Receives processes and follows up on orders and inquires.
• Handles routine and complex situations on own with minimal or no supervision

Critical technical, professional and personal capabilities

• Extensive knowledge and use of business tools used in Customer Service Center
• Trains others on utilizing business tools.
• Develops and implements ideas and suggestions to team
• Appropriate knowledge of and ability to engage internal processes and functions to fulfill customer inquiry, order and delivery requirements. (Transportation, Planning, Distribution, Technical, etc.)
• Ability to understand the financial impact of decisions

Critical success factors & key challenges

• Strong relationships established with defined top customers.   Identifies and initiates necessary action required to resolve issues between customer requirements and the Syngenta policies. 
• Able to interact with various management levels, including senior staff.
• Ability to work with others to identify center of influences and develop plans to strengthen relationships.
• Consults with others as new or difficult situations arise. Capable of handling conflict and identifying resolution. Ensures policy and procedure compliance at the operational level.   Exercises good judgment and applies relevant knowledge to resolve difficult situations.
• Proactively solicits and uses coaching from others for self improvement.  
• Commitment to personal development through continuous education/training.   Develops and shares best practices.   Trains others on team in progr