SRUC is unique in Scotland and one of the largest organisations of its kind in Europe. Our ambitious and exciting vision is to work at local, national and international levels, leading innovation and sustainable development in agriculture and rural sectors.

The Scottish Farm Business Survey team (SFBS) completes management accounts of around 450 farm businesses across Scotland. Data is used primarily to inform government of farm sector performance and to inform future rural policy development.

Farm Business Analysts are responsible for collecting accounting material and related records from farmer co-operators, analysing accounts and returning the records to the co-operators after checking for accuracy. This involves scrutinising technical aspects (livestock and crop reconciliation, plausibility of yields, production, inputs etc.) in addition to financial validation (bank and net worth reconciliation).

Under the guidance of experienced Farm Business Analysts, over a given period, a trainee will learn how to:

• Audit farm accounts, requiring bank-reconciliation procedures and classifying expenditure and receipts into pre-determined headings using a be-spoke audit program
• Check the analysed data
• Complete accurate livestock and crop reconciliations
• Visit farms to collect farm accounting and related material
• Accompany Farm Business Analysts to farms to learn how to return material to the farmer, resolve queries and obtain further information as required
• Complete farm data sets using an Excel Work Book
• Resolve error messages following data validation to ensure quality and plausibility of all data submitted, commenting on any abnormal factors where appropriate
• Learn how to canvass new co-operators for the survey

In order to be considered for these roles, a formal qualification in agriculture, accountancy or related subject would be an advantage. Candidates with a minimum of two standard grades or equivalent including mathematics and English language, and who can demonstrate appropriate experience and skills, are welcome to apply.

In addition to formal qualifications, sound knowledge of farming practices and relevant experience of farm accounting is essential. Experience of computerised accounting packages or book-keeping will be helpful. Full training will be provided for the be-spoke software used.

PLEASE INDICATE CLEARLY ON YOUR APPLICATION FORM WHICH OFFICE (OR BOTH) YOU HAVE A PREFERENCE FOR: Forfar or Aberdeen