AUSTIN DENT
Caldwell,ID
Summary
I am a Business Operations Partner with experience in grain merchandising and operations management. I specialize in optimizing grain movement from producers to end users by improving efficiency, managing risk, and strengthening profitability across the supply chain. My work requires a strong understanding of market trends, logistics, and cost forecasting, which enables me to make informed, strategic decisions that drive value to all stakeholders. My passion for agriculture and its role in global food systems is deeply rooted in my commitment to the continuous improvement and long-term success of U.S. family farms.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
BUSINESS OPERATIONS PARTNER
United Grain Corporation
05.2024 - Current
- Responsible for originating and merchandising corn, wheat, and barley in South-Central WA, Eastern Oregon, and Southern Idaho.
- Tactfully aligns grower bids and end-user sell prices that ensure producer profitability and company margin performance.
- Coordinates grain movements to efficiently manage inventory, ensure timely contract fulfillment, and support seasonal volume demands.
- Advises growers on risk-management strategies using CME futures, options contracts, and other marketing tools to protect downside risk, and improve marketing decision-making.
- Develops and sustains strong producer, vendor, and end-user relationships through proactive communication and reliable contract support.
- Leads recruiting, onboarding, and scheduling of seasonal labor across multiple locations, ensuring adequate staffing levels, and smooth operations during harvest.
WAREHOUSE ASSOCIATE
Helena Agri-Enterprises LLC
Pullman, WA
02.2022 - 04.2024
- Facilitated delivery of fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, bulk tanks, and chemical pumps to farmers in the Palouse region.
- Maintained accurate records including vehicle logs, cargo documentation, and billing statements per DOT, EPA, and company regulations.
MERCHANDISING & ORIGINATION INTERN
United Grain Corporation
06.2022 - 08.2023
- Originated and merchandised wheat and corn, in addition to tailoring commodity risk management strategies to individual farmers' needs.
- Responsible for hedging purchases and sales of grain, reviewing grain settlements, maintaining market order entries, and reconciling the futures position.
- Connected with customers while touring grain silos, flour mills, food packing & processing facilities, and product research & development centers in Japan.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Ag Tech & Production Mgmt, Agribusiness Economics
Washington State University
Pullman, WA05-2024
Skills
- Commodity risk management
- Relationship management
- Grain merchandising
- Operations management
- Contract negotiation
- Logistics coordination
- Talent acquisition
- Business development
Timeline
BUSINESS OPERATIONS PARTNER
United Grain Corporation
05.2024 - Current
MERCHANDISING & ORIGINATION INTERN
United Grain Corporation
06.2022 - 08.2023
WAREHOUSE ASSOCIATE
Helena Agri-Enterprises LLC
02.2022 - 04.2024
Bachelor of Science - Ag Tech & Production Mgmt, Agribusiness Economics
Washington State University