Chief Executive Officer (CEO) - Agriculture and Agro-Processing

About the role

SARIA Consultancy PLC, on behalf of its client in the agriculture, farming and export industry, is looking for a strategic and results-driven CEO to lead overall business operations and oversee coffee farming, production, processing and export. The position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and is permanent.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement business strategies aligned with the company's vision and long-term goals, driving growth, efficiency and profitability.
• Oversee coffee farming, including cultivation, crop management, seasonal harvesting, production planning and coordination with suppliers and outgrowers.
• Provide operational oversight of multiple farms, washing stations, dry mills, warehouses and processing facilities, ensuring quality, efficient processing, good inventory management and timely export order fulfilment.
• Manage budgets, working capital, procurement, production costs and operational resources.
• Establish operational policies, procedures, internal controls and performance management systems.
• Lead and develop management teams, farm managers, supervisors and operational staff across several locations.
• Build relationships with international coffee buyers, suppliers, government institutions and strategic partners.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural and export regulations, industry standards, product quality requirements and occupational health and safety guidelines.

Required profile

• BSc/MA/MSc in Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, Agriculture, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Management or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of relevant experience in agriculture, agribusiness, coffee production or processing, and at least 5 years in senior management or executive leadership roles.
• Proven experience managing agricultural production, coffee farming, processing facilities and multiple operational sites.
• Willingness to travel regularly to farm and operational sites.

Required skills

• Strong strategic leadership, decision-making and people management skills.
• Financial, analytical, negotiation and problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of agricultural laws, regulations and industry standards.
• Understanding of coffee quality control, inventory management, traceability, logistics and export operations.