Nuveen Natural Capital Agronomist - Based in Madrid

Overview of the Role: 

NNC is seeking a candidate with experience in permanent crop production and management to join the team in Iberia, which is based in Madrid. This team is responsible for managing the company’s expanding portfolio of tree crop investments in Spain and Portugal.   

The position requires expertise in permanent crop development, production and management, especially within the avocado, citrus and berry industries. Responsibilities include interacting with farm managers to maximize efficiency and productivity, evaluating cultural practices (fertilizer, pest control, pruning, irrigation, etc.) across NNC assets, identifying and implementing projects to minimize farm operating costs and increase crop yields, reviewing farm level budgets and monitoring ongoing performance, and providing input on new property acquisitions.  

A strong background in agronomy, crop production and/or farm management is required. Other relevant skills and experience include budget preparation, review and oversight, the ability to evaluate investment opportunities from an agronomic and water standpoint and research/report writing.  A genuine interest and passion for new and innovative farming techniques and sustainable farm management is critical.  

The Agronomist will report to the Director of Asset Management and will work closely with third party crop managers and advisors. 

Key responsibilities:   

Provide oversight of farming operations 

• Review farm operations and cultural practices – develop strategies to improve results 

• Oversee farm managers and assess performance 

• Analyse and report on budget variances, crop yields and financial performance 

• Ensure budgetary discipline and effectively communicate expectations with farm managers 

• Evaluate capital improvement projects that will increase property value and improve returns 

Manage property performance and reporting 

• Collaborate with crop managers to evaluate and implement new technologies and farming practices to improve efficiency, sustainability and soil health 

• Develop and implement new processes and procedures to reduce farming costs and improve productivity 

• Monitor water usage and identify opportunities for conservation 

• Negotiate favourable supply arrangements with key vendors 

• Contribute to the collection of farm level data for sustainability reporting requirements 

•  Participate in industry forums, review research articles and develop networks to promote advances in farming practices and technology 

Support investment team 

• Contribute to research in new crop types and production methods 

Provide expertise in analysing acquisition candidates 

• Assist in coordinating property review and diligence activities
• Provide insights on orchard quality and productive capacity, soil and water quality, variety and rootstock analysis, etc. 

• Assist in preparing detailed operating and development investment cases  

Other: 

• Ensure timely completion of crop certifications and other regulatory or compliance requirements 

• Interact with third party farming consultants and advisors 

Qualifications & Experience Required  

• Bachelor’s Degree in Crop Science, Agronomy, Horticulture or related subject 

• Minimum five years working in agricultural production, farm advising, farm management or similar field 

• Real estate and finance experience or education would be advantageous 

• Strong analytical skills 

• Advanced Excel skills 

• Fluency in Spanish and English 

This role requires no regulatory designation.  

Nuveen is committed to providing equal opportunity across all employment practices and we believe our employees have a right to a diverse and inclusive workplace. 

Nuveen offers support for those who need assistance with our online application process to provide an equal employment opportunity to all job seekers, including individuals with disabilities.   

Related Skills

Asset/Investment Modeling, Business Development, Client Relationship Management, Communication, Consultative Communication, Executive Presence, Financial Acumen, Financial Modeling, Investor Relationship Management, Market/Industry Dynamics, Natural Capital Investments, Portfolio Management

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Company Overview

Nuveen is a global investment leader, managing public and private assets for clients around the world and on behalf of TIAA, our parent company and one of the world’s largest institutional investors. We invest in the growth of businesses, real estate, infrastructure and natural capital, providing clients with the reliability, access and foresight unique to our heritage. Our prevailing perspective on the future drives our ambition to innovate and adapt our business to the changing needs of investors - all to pursue lasting performance for our clients, our communities and our global economy. Visit www.nuveen.com to learn more about us.

Our Culture of Impact

At TIAA, we're on a mission to build on our 100+ year legacy of delivering for our clients while evolving to meet tomorrow's challenges. We equip our associates with future-focused skills and AI tools that enable us to advance our mission. Together, we are fighting to ensure a more secure financial future for all and for generations to come. We are guided by our values: Champion Our People, Be Client Obsessed, Lead with Integrity, Own It, and Win As One. They influence every decision we make and how we work together to serve our clients every day. We thrive in a collaborative in-office environment where teams work across organizational boundaries with shared purpose, accelerating innovation and delivering meaningful results. Our workplace brings together TIAA and Nuveen's entrepreneurial spirit, where we work hard and work together to create lasting impact. Here, every associate can grow through meaningful learning experiences and development pathways—because when our people succeed, our impact on clients' lives grows stronger.

Accessibility Support

TIAA offers support for those who need assistance with our online application process to provide an equal employment opportunity to all job seekers, including individuals with disabilities. 

If you are a U.S. applicant and desire a reasonable accommodation to complete a job application please use one of the below options to contact our accessibility support team: 

Phone: (800) 842-2755

Email: [email protected]

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