Ben Weber – Senior Analyst, Ppb Advisory

For Ben Weber, becoming a senior analyst in agribusiness was the perfect way to unite his love of agriculture with his strength in economics. Working at PPB Advisory (now part of KPMG), Ben has carved out a career that lets him stay connected to the land while operating at the forefront of agribusiness strategy and investment. His story is an inspiring example of how passion and professional acumen can combine to create meaningful work in Australia’s growing agricultural sector.

Blending Passion and Practicality

Did you always want to work in agriculture?

“From a young age, I wanted to be a farmer,” Ben says. “My parents weren’t farmers, so there was no family farm for me to inherit. That changed my outlook—I realised I had to find a career I was passionate about that still kept me close to the industry. Agribusiness was a natural fit.”

Why agribusiness in particular?

Ben’s pathway combined both experience and academic interest. “I enjoyed economics in school, and I spent most holidays and a year after graduating working on my uncle’s property in the Riverina. Agribusiness became the perfect marriage of my interests.”

Learning on the Land and Beyond

How did university influence your career?

Ben studied at the University of New England (UNE), one of Australia’s top institutions for rural studies. “To be honest, my university years were more focused on college life and travel. My career direction was mostly shaped by mentors, hands-on experience and working in the industry itself.”

What’s the most rewarding part of your role?

“The variety is what keeps it exciting. I get to advise on corporate asset acquisitions, oversee farming operations, and even get involved in hands-on work like mustering cattle. It’s rewarding to switch between the boardroom and the bush.”

And the most challenging?

“Working with distressed assets is difficult. Agriculture is a deeply emotional sector, especially for family-owned farms. When clients are in financial distress, it can be tough navigating the personal impact as well as the business side.”

Work-Life Balance and Lifestyle

How flexible is your job?

“It’s definitely not a 9-to-5 role. I often work weekends and late nights, especially during busy periods. But my company understands that, and they offer flexibility when things settle. Overall, I manage a good work–life balance.”

Does your work involve travel?

“Absolutely. I travel across Western Australia, the Northern Territory, Queensland and New South Wales to manage and advise on cropping and grazing operations. It’s a lot of flying and driving, but the chance to see different parts of the country is a real bonus.”

Career Advice for Aspiring Agribusiness Professionals

What tips do you have for those starting out?

“Find a niche you love—be it cropping, beef, wine or horticulture—and become an expert. There are more opportunities than people think, and not just on farms. Banks, law firms, advisory groups and investment managers are all building out agribusiness teams.”

He adds: “If you can, get hands-on experience. Working at the farm gate builds your credibility and gives you a real-world understanding that’s hard to replicate from behind a desk.”

Explore a Future in Agribusiness

If Ben’s journey inspires you, now’s the time to take the first step. Australia’s agricultural sector is experiencing significant growth, especially in areas like sustainable farming, agtech and rural finance. Explore agriculture and agribusiness courses to see how you can enter this dynamic and essential industry.