Technical Service Manager

Technical Service Manager

FMC Corporation is a global leader in agricultural sciences, driven by our purpose: Innovation for Agriculture. Solutions for the Planet. We are passionate about the power of science to solve agriculture's biggest challenges. With one of the most productive and diversified pipelines in the industry, FMC is delivering cutting-edge and next-generation crop protection technologies to help farmers increase the productivity and resilience of their land. Our employees are at the heart of this innovation. We're looking for bold thinkers and collaborative doers. At FMC, your ideas matter. From day one, you'll contribute to meaningful work that drives progress in agriculture, supported by a culture that values integrity, safety, respect, and results. Join us in advancing the future of agriculture. Together, we're building a more resilient planet – one innovation at a time.

The Technical Service Manager (TSM) handles all the technical support functions for their area on behalf of FMC. This person works closely with the sales team and the regional sales leadership in the region. The research testing funds to the universities flow through the Technical Services Manager as does training presentations, localized sales tools and customer complaints. The TSM collaborates closely with the other technical support personnel outside the local geography as well as the marketing, regulatory and product development groups. The TSM will work closely with the Regional Technical Manager to ensure the technical focus of the region is in harmony with the technical focus across the North America Crop Business.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain strong technical knowledge of commercial agriculture, new technologies and competitive chemistries & positioning impacting the business
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with university extension personnel and other important influencers in the territory to ensure they are adequately prepared to recommend FMC products upon launch and that FMC and our products are represented fairly in publications and in live field and industry events
• Develop, execute & supervise appropriate support activities aligned with key initiatives as outlined in the annual FMC Goals and Objectives
• Work hand in hand with Product Development teammates to ensure testing programs are aligned with market trends and that the Technical Service Manager is well educated regarding development projects as launch time approaches
• Manage expenses, service to sales dollars & product demo budget consistent & aligned with key regional initiatives
• Provide technical product training & give regional guidance on complaint handling and assist Field Sales Representatives (FSRs) in complaint calls where necessary for agronomic expertise, problem diagnosis, and input on resolution.
• Manage, implement & supervise research testing funds and influence trial plans through the grant-in-aid (GIA) budget that are aligned with regional sales and marketing objectives
• Develop various training modules & take the lead in providing technical consulting & training to internal & external groups. Focus on new product launches & leading the technical transfer of information to sales teams & key customer groups
• Provide necessary proof of validation using sound data and information for label updates, amendments and assist regulatory department with label use instructions
• Produce sales tools such as newsletters, technical recommendation sheets and other sales collateral
• Carefully review, edit and approve technical, sales, marketing and or advertising communications
• Continue to strengthen the communication between other regional technical support groups and internal functional groups
• Analyze regional agronomic trends and provide strategic recommendations to leadership.
• Mentor and coach junior Technical Service Representatives.

Required Education:

• MS in Entomology, Plant Pathology/Physiology, Weed Science, Agronomy or other agricultural/related science or equivalent experience
• PhD preferred

Qualifications:

• 5+ years' experience in technical support, selling chemical crop protection, seed or agronomy services
• Certified Crop Advisor or equivalent certification desired
• Excellent speaking, writing, and computer skills
• Working knowledge of ARM
• Capable of designing protocols and research projects that creatively and effectively demonstrate the features and benefits of agronomic inputs. Key contributor on complex projects
• Proven ability to effectively transfer technically complex information to an audience with more limited technical expertise
• Demonstrated ability to operate effectively under pressure, navigate contentious situations and resolve conflict
• Ability to build and sustain strong business relationships with customers and teammates.
• Demonstrated ability to make decisions under minimum supervision; occasionally makes decisions of a complex nature within operating guidelines
• Ability to develop and service business relationships with agronomy staff of key retail accounts
• Demonstrated ability to make independent judgments with review from management; makes decisions of a complex nature where independent judgment and creativity are required
• Demonstrated ability to effectively negotiate with customers, teammates and management
• Experience leading projects or special assignment involving work outside the area/region
• Recognition as a valuable technical resource to others within the sales organization
• Demonstrated independence in leading projects
• Ability to live within the TS region to effectively service Sales and customer needs and other requirements of the role.

FMC is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Employment decisions at FMC are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications. We value diversity and strive to ensure that our hiring and employment practices support a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment.