Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Interests
Timeline
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Ruan  Kirstein

Ruan Kirstein

Agronomist
Riebeek-Kasteel

Summary

Detail-oriented Agronomist helps teams develop basic and advanced agronomic knowledge to add value to customers. Versed in customer relationship development and personnel growth while keeping current on industry agronomic practices to drive short- and long-term planning.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience
2
2
Languages

Work History

Agronomist

Villa Crop Protection
03.2022 - Current
  • Educated customers on the latest industry trends, technologies, and best practices in order to empower informed decision-making processes.
  • Conducted regular field visits to monitor crop performance, recommend adjustments, and address potential issues proactively.
  • Improved customer retention by offering timely and accurate technical support for crop management issues.
  • Provided valuable feedback to R&D teams based on field observations and customer insights, contributing to product improvement initiatives.
  • Contributed towards overall company growth by sharing best practices within the team and collaborating crossfunctionally.
  • Developed strong professional relationships with clients, earning their trust and ensuring ongoing opportunities for collaboration in the future.
  • Stayed current on industry trends through attending conferences, workshops, and continuing education programs relevant to agronomy.


  • Internal courses completed :

Client Relationship Skills - June 2023

Relationship Selling - August 2023






Technical Sales Consultant

Real IPM South Africa
08.2018 - 02.2022
  • Worked closely with sales managers to develop effective strategies for reaching target audiences in various industries.
  • Leveraged technical knowledge and strong communication skills to simplify complex concepts for clients, building trust and credibility in use of biological pest control products.
  • Serviced existing accounts on regular basis to maximize revenue.
  • Monitored weekly sales to write reports for senior leadership and streamline operational processes.
  • Consistently exceeded quarterly sales goals, contributing significantly to the overall success of the organization.
  • Participated in industry trade shows and conferences, promoting brand visibility and networking with potential clients.
  • Established strong relationships with customers, resulting in repeat business and long-term partnerships.
  • Conducted thorough market research to identify opportunities for expanding the company''s client base.
  • Attended product-related technical shows and other activities to represent company products and services.

General Manager of Operations

JEVDM Boerdery
01.2014 - 08.2018
  • Developed and executed strategic plans for increased productivity, profitability of Tablegrape production farm.
  • Ensured compliance with industry regulations, company policies, and best practices within all areas of operation.
  • Managed budgets, financial forecasts, and resource allocation to ensure achievement of organizational goals.
  • Collaborated closely with agronomists to make informed decisions about crop protection, nutrient management plans, and other vital aspects of crop production optimization.
  • Oversaw the maintenance of farm machinery, resulting in reduced downtime due to repairs or malfunctions.
  • Implemented pest control programs to minimize crop damage while adhering to environmental regulations.
  • Increased farm productivity by introducing modern farming practices and equipment upgrades.
  • Managed farm staff efficiently, providing training and guidance for optimal performance.
  • Boosted overall profitability with effective budget management, cost reduction.
  • Fostered a positive work culture that motivated employees to excel in their roles while also reducing turnover rates.
  • Maintained a safe working environment by enforcing safety protocols and conducting regular inspections of facilities and equipment.
  • Ensured high-quality produce by adhering to strict quality control measures during harvesting and packaging processes in the packhouse.
  • Maintained farm records and documentation.
  • Successfully negotiated contracts with buyers/ exporters to secure favorable terms for the sale of farm products (Tablegrapes).
  • Enhanced crop yield by implementing effective irrigation and fertilization techniques.
  • Completed structural inspections to determine maintenance requirements and organize repairs.


Quality Assurance Supervisor (Internship)

Fruitways
01.2013 - 12.2013
  • Maintained comprehensive documentation of QA activities, supporting effective communication between departments and facilitating process improvements.
  • Optimized workflows by regularly reviewing processes for inefficiencies or redundancies, implementing changes that improved overall productivity.
  • Achieved consistent compliance with industry regulations by conducting thorough audits and ensuring adherence to standards.
  • Promoted a positive work environment by fostering open communication, recognizing individual achievements, and supporting teamwork within the Quality Assurance department.

Education

AVCASA Accreditation - Crop Protection

AVCASA Training Academy
04.2001 -

National Diploma Agriculture - Viticulture And Pomology

Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Cape Town, South Africa
04.2001 -

Skills

    Time management abilities

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Interests

Reading

Hunting

Sport shooting

Cycling

Timeline

Agronomist

Villa Crop Protection
03.2022 - Current

Technical Sales Consultant

Real IPM South Africa
08.2018 - 02.2022

General Manager of Operations

JEVDM Boerdery
01.2014 - 08.2018

Quality Assurance Supervisor (Internship)

Fruitways
01.2013 - 12.2013

AVCASA Accreditation - Crop Protection

AVCASA Training Academy
04.2001 -

National Diploma Agriculture - Viticulture And Pomology

Cape Peninsula University of Technology
04.2001 -
Ruan KirsteinAgronomist