Role Overview for Chief Commercial Officer – Agribusiness – Minneapolis, MN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, forward-thinking agribusiness organization in their search for a dynamic and visionary Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). Based in the agricultural hub of Minneapolis, MN, this executive leadership role is a pivotal opportunity to shape the future of a company at the forefront of the global food supply chain. Our client is a multi-billion dollar enterprise renowned for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence. They are seeking a transformative leader to architect and execute a comprehensive commercial strategy that will drive substantial revenue growth, expand market share, and enhance profitability across all business units.
As the Chief Commercial Officer, you will be the primary driver of the company’s commercial success. You will assume full ownership of the sales, marketing, business development, and customer relationship management functions. This role demands a unique blend of strategic foresight, financial acumen, and inspirational leadership. You will be responsible for identifying and capitalizing on emerging market trends, navigating the complexities of global commodity markets, and fostering a culture of high performance and customer-centricity. The ideal candidate will not only be a master of commercial strategy but also a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture and a leader who can inspire a large, diverse team to achieve ambitious goals. You will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, contributing to the overall strategic direction and long-term success of the organization. This is more than a job; it is a chance to make a tangible impact on a global scale, ensuring the company remains a leader in feeding the world responsibly and efficiently.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Commercial Officer – Agribusiness – Minneapolis, MN
The Chief Commercial Officer will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, including but not limited to:
Strategic Commercial Leadership
Develop, articulate, and execute a cohesive and aggressive commercial strategy that aligns with the company’s overall mission and financial objectives. Continuously assess market dynamics, competitive landscapes, and customer needs to refine and adapt the strategy for sustained growth.
Revenue Growth and P&L Management
Assume full responsibility for the company’s revenue targets and the P&L of the commercial division. Implement robust sales processes, pricing strategies, and performance metrics to maximize profitability and achieve top-line growth.
Sales and Marketing Excellence
Lead all sales, marketing, and business development teams, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and success. Modernize the commercial engine by integrating digital marketing, advanced analytics, and CRM technologies to enhance customer engagement and sales effectiveness.
Market Expansion and Business Development
Identify and pursue new market opportunities, both domestically and internationally. Lead the evaluation of potential mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships to accelerate growth and expand the company’s footprint.
Team Leadership and Talent Development
Build, mentor, and lead a world-class commercial organization. Attract, retain, and develop top talent, establishing clear performance expectations and providing pathways for professional growth. Inspire the team with a compelling vision and lead by example.
Customer Relationship Management
Cultivate and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key customers, strategic partners, and industry stakeholders. Act as the executive sponsor for major accounts, ensuring the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Product and Innovation Strategy
Collaborate closely with the R&D, operations, and supply chain teams to provide market-driven insights that inform product development and innovation. Ensure the company’s product and service portfolio remains competitive and aligned with evolving customer demands.
Data-Driven Decision Making
Champion the use of data and analytics to drive commercial decisions. Leverage market intelligence and performance data to forecast trends, manage risk, and optimize resource allocation. Utilize insights from authoritative sources like the USDA Economic Research Service to inform long-range strategic planning.
Requirements for the Chief Commercial Officer – Agribusiness – Minneapolis, MN
We are seeking an exceptional leader with a proven track record of commercial success in a complex, global industry. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and attributes:
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Agriculture, Economics, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree is strongly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive leadership experience in commercial roles, with at least 5-7 years in a senior executive position (e.g., VP of Sales, Chief Revenue Officer, CCO) with significant P&L responsibility.
Industry Expertise
Deep and extensive experience within the agribusiness, food processing, commodity trading, or a closely related industry is essential. A thorough understanding of agricultural supply chains, market drivers, and global trade dynamics is required.
Proven Track Record
Demonstrable success in developing and executing commercial strategies that resulted in significant, measurable revenue growth and market share expansion. Experience leading large-scale business transformations is highly desirable.
Leadership Acumen
Exceptional leadership and team-building skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop a large, geographically dispersed team. A collaborative leader who can work effectively across functions and influence stakeholders at all levels.
Strategic and Analytical Skills
Superior strategic thinking, problem-solving, and analytical capabilities. The ability to translate complex market data into actionable strategies and clear business plans.
Financial Acumen
Strong command of financial principles, including P&L management, budgeting, forecasting, and strategic investment analysis.
Communication Skills
Outstanding verbal, written, and presentation skills. The ability to communicate a compelling vision and complex ideas clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, including the Board of Directors, employees, customers, and investors.
Location
Ability and willingness to be based in the Minneapolis, MN metropolitan area and travel as required for business needs.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client offers a highly competitive and comprehensive executive compensation and benefits package designed to attract and retain top-tier talent. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus and a long-term incentive plan (e.g., equity, stock options) that aligns your success with the company’s growth.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents. Includes access to wellness programs, mental health resources, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match to help you build a secure financial future.
Paid Time Off
A generous executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays.
Executive Perks
Relocation assistance package for candidates moving to the Minneapolis area, an executive car allowance, and a professional development budget to support continuous learning and industry engagement.
Insurance and Protection
Company-paid life insurance, short-term disability (STD), and long-term disability (LTD) coverage.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative commercial leader with a passion for the agribusiness industry and a track record of driving exceptional growth, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit JRG Partners’ Agriculture & Agribusiness Executive Search Firm practice area page. We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce and are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
