Program Coordinator at CISA

Status:  Full-time Position

Time Frame:  Review begins 2/27/15, position open until filled

Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) is a non-profit organization that strengthens farms and engages the community to build the local food economy. Our programs include the Be a Local Hero, Buy Locally Grown® marketing campaign, educational activities for the public, technical assistance trainings and workshops for farmers, and programs to expand market options for farmers and increase access to local food for all communities in our region.

DESCRIPTION

The Program Coordinator supports the Special Projects Director in implementing the mission of the organization to strengthen farms and engage the community to build the local food economy. The Program Coordinator manages our farmers’ markets initiatives, outreach and promotional events, and CISA’s Emergency Farm Fund. The Program Coordinator manages the day-to-day activities for these programs, collaborates with the Program Director/Special Project Director to set strategic goals for these programs, and supports development of new program strategies, areas, and activities.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Implement assigned programs
  • Develop and execute annual program objectives and work plans;
  • Manage day-to-day logistics of the programs, including on-the-ground contact with partners and participants;
  • Work with other CISA departments to implement objectives of program;
  • Work with supervisor to stay on budget;
  • Work with supervisor to track program accomplishments, evaluate the programs, assist in grant reporting (as required), etc.

Specifically, in 2015-6, the Program Coordinator will

  • Coordinate CISA’s support for farmers’ markets, including
  • Plan and implement SNAP matching programs in Hampden County and, dependent on funding, Hampshire County;
  • Plan and implement trials of farmers’ market promotion and customer loyalty tools, and provide training to market managers and vendors in their use;
  • Plan and implement a training/networking meeting for farmers’ market managers;
  • Evaluate farmers’ market support activities and share evaluation with partners, as appropriate.
  • Co-coordinate some of CISA’s outreach and promotional activities, including:
  • At least three tours for the press and/or buyers of particular crops;
  • Dairy promotional events;
  • CISA’s public panels and events
  • Develop press relationships and create media opportunities in Hampden County.
  • Manage CISA’s Emergency Farm Fund, including
  • Review policies and procedures;
  • If needed open, manage, and evaluate the fund.
  • Collaborate with CISA management to bring creative and strategic thinking to further CISA’s mission.
  • Represent CISA at public presentations, program collaborations, and other venues as needed.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned by the Special Projects Director.

REPORTING AND SUPERVISION

  • The Program Coordinator reports to the Special Projects Director.
  • The Program Coordinator may supervise interns and volunteers. The Program Coordinator works closely with Program staff and other CISA staff.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Ability to work independently and with a team;
  • Organized and self-motivated;
  • Ability to work with people of various backgrounds including government agency staff, university researchers, farmers, business owners, and community members;
  • Strong written and oral communication skills in English (Spanish proficiency a plus);
  • Proficiency with office computing and equipment (MS Windows and Office platforms);
  • At least two years of networking, sales, and outreach experience;
  • Bachelor’s degree required;
  • Experience in the sustainable agriculture field a plus;
  • Commitment to CISA’s mission to strengthen farms and engage the community to build the local food economy.

Hours and compensation:  Salary commensurate with experience. This is a full-time, exempt position.  Health care and benefits provided.  Access to a car and some weekend and evening availability are required.

CISA is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Please email cover letter and resume to Jennifer Williams (Jennifer@buylocalfood.org) or mail to CISA, One Sugarloaf Street, South Deerfield, MA  01373.  Writing samples and references may be requested.  

- See more at: http://www.buylocalfood.org/program-coordinator/#sthash.VLuxQhLZ.dpuf