Job Description

The FS brand represents a standard of excellence for agricultural and energy-related products. It's the people who represent the FS brand that set it apart. As local cooperatives, FS Companies believe it is their responsibility to ensure that our earth, our communities, and businesses perform together, sustainably. FS Companies are committed to ensuring the continued profitability for the company, their owners, and their customers, while enacting to help the environment and greater good.

TITLE: General Manager

COOP/DIV: Ludlow Cooperative Elevator Company

POSTED: March 2, 2026

SUPV: Board of Directors

SALARY RANGE: $175,000 - $190,000

PURPOSE AND SUMMARY STATEMENT

Under the direction of the Ludlow Cooperative Elevator Company Board of Directors and the company's governing documents, is responsible for providing leadership, direction and oversight to the business operations, its employees, equipment, and facilities. Manager has overall responsibility to ensure the financial health, well-being, and the profitable growth of Ludlow Cooperative Elevator, consistent with policies and practices adopted by the board.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Ability to successfully interact and communicate with customers, employees, and the Board of Directors.
• Responsible for directing operations and supervising all employees in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• Responsible for supervising the purchase of grain through all elevators and origination personnel, as well as the sale of grain into all markets for elevator and direct purchases.
• Responsible for grain hedging strategies and execution of a risk management program using exchange-traded futures and options. This includes a thorough understanding of and ability to execute a basis-traded merchandising program. Must have or obtain a Series 3 grain license.
• Responsible for ensuring maximum utilization and efficiency of grain storage and handling equipment.
• Responsible for inventory management and quality control of all grain and for providing monthly reports to the Board of Directors.
• Negotiates or supervises negotiations with brokers, millers, truckers, terminals, processors, and other market participants to establish cash grain bids and sales prices.
• Maintains compliance with all grain dealers, grain warehouse, and regulatory requirements.
• Merchandises grain within policy guidelines established by the Board of Directors.
• Maintains an understanding of Central Illinois truck markets, Central Illinois rail markets, and local processor markets.
• Demonstrates knowledge of general accounting principles and computer literacy.
• Responsible for supervising the maintenance and reconciliation of all grain and related financial accounts, with reporting to the Board of Directors.
• Develops and implements strategic plans, operating budgets, and fixed (capital) budgets.
• Preferred to live in grain territory and actively interact with local communities.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Normally requires a college degree, preferably in Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Marketing, or Agribusiness, plus 5 to 10 years of experience in grain marketing and commodity trading.
• Knowledge of cooperative philosophies and principles preferred.
• Proven professional communication, presentation, persuasion, and customer service skills.
• Demonstrated supervisory skills and the ability to accomplish work through others.
• Proven planning, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Must be available to work hours beyond those considered normal and be available for overnight travel.
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license and be available for evening and night meetings.

In addition to competitive pay, the company offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being of our employees. Benefits may include retirement, health and wellness, paid time off, supplemental or incidental coverage, and more.

Benefits eligibility may vary depending on the position. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, location, and other factors permitted by law. In addition to base pay, certain roles may be eligible for bonuses, incentives, and commissions.

We are an equal opportunity/Disabled/Protected Veteran Employer. All individuals, regardless of demographic or other background, are encouraged to apply. Further, as a federal, state, and local contractor, we comply with government regulations and executive orders as applicable, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals with disability and protected veterans.
Employment is contingent on, among other things, receipt of an acceptable and job-related background check, drug test, motor vehicle report, and/or reference check, as applicable and permissible by law.