Sales Associate Ag Lending

Where you will work: This position offers a hybrid work option, up to 50% remote and may be based out of one of the following office locations: Freeport-IL; Rock Falls-IL; Oregon, IL.

The contributions you will make: This position participates in a 6-18-month training program designed to develop a high-performing sales team member. The primary focus of the program is sales training, with a particular emphasis on Ag Lending and Crop and Livestock Insurance. The incumbent follows a comprehensive syllabus that includes modules on Sales, Crop Insurance, Credit, Appraisal, and Marketing. Upon successful completion of the program, the incumbent is well-prepared to assume a sales position in Ag Lending or Crop and Livestock Insurance.

A typical day: 

• Participates in classroom and experiential training to gain in-depth understanding of the agricultural industry.
• Facilitates learning and collaboration by engaging with team members across Compeer’s diverse geographical locations.
• Attends agricultural meetings, farm open houses/tours, trade shows, extension meetings and other networking events to keep current on agriculture and financial market changes.
• Attends education events, training events and industry meetings to advance professional and technical skills.
• Markets loans and related services, establishing new market relationships that will contribute towards attainment of Compeer’s goals and business objectives.
• Assists with the maintenance of prospect files, establishing ongoing prospecting plans and activities, and developing and making a commitment to individual sales goals for both loans and related services.
• Administers loans, policies and appraisals to cultivate positive client relationships that contribute to Compeer’s success.
• Assists in building client relationships and prospecting new clients, while collaborating with experienced sales team members to establish criteria for long-term success.
• Accompanies sales team members on client and prospect visits, and actively participates in the sales process.
• Processes loans, utilizes loan origination system, and analyzes financial information assigned by Marketplace Leadership. 
• Assists with research as directed by team leader to advance the department or organization.
• Fills in for a departed full-time sales person until a full-time position is hired.
• Provides support with responsibilities during the vacancy of a full-time sales position as needed.

The skills and experience we prefer you have: 

• Bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics, ag business or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essentials functions of the job.
• Experience in agribusiness/farming industry, agricultural credit or closely related field preferred.
• Ability to obtain an Insurance License within six months of hire is required.
• Ability to make sound judgments is required.
• Solid organizational, interpersonal, communication, problem solving, analytical, negotiating and influencing skills are required.
• Knowledge of farm production methods and products, a general understanding of farm business management and finance.
• Must demonstrate effective team building and processing skills.
• The understanding of and ability to use various computer, business/financial applications is required.
• Knowledge of “value added” business and farming concepts.
• Knowledge of loan products and services, as well as credit operations.
• Knowledge of farm production methods, farm products, and farm business management/finance.
• Effective interpersonal, communication, client service and team skills.
• Effective problem solving and decision-making skills.
• Strong computer skills, including MS Office applications and customer relationship management (CRM) programs.
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing situations.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with other teams to achieve goals and represent the business.
• Ability to network with clients, prospects and key influencers.
• Knowledge of accounting principles with an understanding of financial reports, ratio and benchmarks.
• Travel is required during the training program.
• Valid driver’s license.

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How we will take care of you:

Our job titles may span more than one career level (associate, senior, principal, etc.). The actual title and base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. This role is eligible for variable compensation and other benefits.