Reuben Simango
Fredericksburg,VA
Summary
Self-motivated Agronomist with advanced regulatory and control experience in seed crop production, Has vast knowledge and specialized skills in Agronomy and research. Demonstrated passion for promoting and implementing sustainable agriculture practices. Supports collaboration with local breeding and agronomy teams to coordinate activities.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Production Agronomist
Seed Co Zimbabwe Pvt Ltd
01.2007 - 07.2024
- Regulatory and control of all activities in certified seed production of Cereal and legume crops.
- Conducted farm assessments for prospective certified seed growers.
- Assisted contracting of growers for seed production.
- Conducted foundation seed release to farmers
- Prepared and conducted pre-planting training of seed growers.
- Developed customized nutrient management plans to optimize plant health and yield potential.
- Provided guidance and recommendations regarding planting and cultivation methods.
- Conducted field visits regularly to monitor crop progress, identify issues early on, and provide expert guidance for optimal growth conditions.
- Monitored adherence to planting guides of varieties by farmers.
- Conducting farmer pre-flowering emasculation /detasselling training.
- Implemented pest and weed control strategies-IPM.
- Collaborating with Certifying Authority on field crop visits during flowering stage.
- Supervision of emasculation on corn seed during flowering period.
- Performed crop synchronization data collection and utilized findings to increase yield and quality.
- Selected Corn fields for Artificial Seed drying.
- Prepared harvesting time schedule for fields considered for Artificial drying.
- Collaborating with farmers on seed corn harvesting for artificial drying.
- Conducting harvesting clearances across all seed crops.
- Monitored actual harvesting of seed crops.
- Managed post-harvest processing of all seed crops.
- Approved for delivery all processed seed lots satisfying minimum quality standards.
- Prepared comprehensive seed delivery schedules from production area for Warehouse and Processing.
- Conducted foundation seed herbicide trial plots.
- Involved in evaluation of genetic purity grow out trials on basic, foundation and certified seed using cultivar phenotypic expression.
- Approved seed deliveries satisfying minimum seed standards.
- Advised seed growers on the proper selection of seed varieties based on their unique requirements and environmental factors.
- Assisted farmers in implementing improved cultivation techniques, resulting in increased productivity and profitability.
- Implemented integrated pest management strategies that minimized chemical usage while maintaining effective control over harmful pests.
- Monitored field trials, collected data, and analyzed results to assess the effectiveness of various agronomic interventions.
- Prepared detailed reports on agronomic findings, contributing valuable data for use in decision making processes.
Farm Manager
Exor Agri-Division
04.2005 - 12.2006
- Planned, led, organized, evaluated and controlled all farm activities in vegetables and livestock production.
- Planned schedule for crop rotation, plantings, and harvest.
- Managed all crop production operations from land preparation to harvesting.
- Assisted Farm administrator on the procurement of inputs.
- Managed all stakeholder suppliers and customers.
- labor to productive levels at lowest cost possible.
- Managing sales and marketing of farm produce.
- Prepared and presented whole farm budgets, cashflows and Financial Reports to company management.
- Managed farm staff efficiently, providing training and guidance for optimal performance.
- Increased farm labor productivity by introducing morden farming practices and equipment upgrades.
- Oversaw the maintenance of farm machinery, resulting in reduced downtime due to repairs or malfunctions.
- Kept detailed records on crop production, livestock health, equipment maintenance, financial transactions, and employee performance for data-driven decision making.
- Improved animal health through regular monitoring, vaccinations, and timely veterinary consultations.
- Developed advanced understanding of farm operations, purchasing needs, and labor requirements.
- Managed operational records, administrative needs and marketing plans to promote business and strengthen revenue streams.
Assistant Technical Manager
Frascati Flora Pvt Ltd
01.2003 - 03.2005
- Implemented IPM on Hypericum flowers, foundation corn seed and vegetables.
- Implemented soil fertility management strategies to enhance productivity.
- Prepared and implemented Irrigation scheduling programs that synchronized with other farm operations.
- Conducted Infield yield estimation and prepared flower shipping schedules.
- Enhanced flower quality by post harvest environmental controls.
- Provided expert guidance to section managers during the adoption of new cultivars in flowers, ensuring adherence to industry standards and best practices.
- Performed thorough risk assessments prior to major system changes, minimizing potential disruptions and ensuring seamless transitions.
- Reduced system downtime by implementing proactive maintenance schedules and comprehensive troubleshooting processes.
- Evaluated emerging technologies for potential implementation within the organization, driving innovation and staying ahead of industry trends.
- Assessed expected technical challenges and developed proactive solutions.
Education
Master of Science - Crop Science Agronomy
University of Zimbabwe
Harare, Zimbabwe01.2022
Bachelor of Science - Agronomy Honors
Midlands State University
Gweru, Zimbabwe07.2019
Associate of Science - University of Zimbabwe Diploma in Agriculture
Gwebi College
Harare, Zimbabwe10.2002
Skills
Crop Production
Extension services provision
Agronomic research methods
Data Collection
Integrated Pest Management
Analytical Thinking
Interpersonal Communication
Time Management
Teamwork and Collaboration
Adaptability and Flexibility
- Agrochemical Application Knowledge
- Post-Harvest Handling
- Crop Management Expertise
- Experimental design understanding
- Self Motivation
Additional Information
O'Brian Kupeta
Consumer Safety Inspector
North Carolina Department of Agriculture and consumer services
North Carolina,
USA.
+1 910 265 5593
obriankupps@gmail.com
Abraham Rivaldo Pfunhani
Central Farmers' Cooperative
44610 273rd Street, Marion,
South Dakota 57043
USA
+1 605 744 9361
aarrpfunhani@gmail.com
Farayi Zvavamwe
Production Manager
Seed Co
1 Shamwari Road,
Harare.
Zimbabwe
+263 772 169 722
farayi.zvavamwe@seedcogroup.co
Timeline
Production Agronomist
Seed Co Zimbabwe Pvt Ltd
01.2007 - 07.2024
Farm Manager
Exor Agri-Division
04.2005 - 12.2006
Assistant Technical Manager
Frascati Flora Pvt Ltd
01.2003 - 03.2005
Master of Science - Crop Science Agronomy
University of Zimbabwe
Bachelor of Science - Agronomy Honors
Midlands State University
Associate of Science - University of Zimbabwe Diploma in Agriculture
Gwebi College
Similar Profiles
Michael ChisipochinyiMichael Chisipochinyi
Agronomist at Seed Co ZimbabweAgronomist at Seed Co Zimbabwe
Tatenda ZvingowaniseiTatenda Zvingowanisei
Maintenance Manager at OK Zimbabwe Pvt LtdMaintenance Manager at OK Zimbabwe Pvt Ltd
Takudzwa E SedaTakudzwa E Seda
Sales /Marketing Officer at OK Zimbabwe PVT LTDSales /Marketing Officer at OK Zimbabwe PVT LTD