Job: Program Manager for Farm Site, Staff, Grant Programs for Beginning Farmers

The Greater Lansing Food Bank (GLFB) in Michigan seeks a full-time Program Manager for Lansing Roots to start ASAP (March/April, 2013). The Lansing Roots Program Manager will be responsible for all aspects of the Lansing Roots program, including managing the farm site, managing staff, grant and funding reporting, and ensuring the long term success of the program. This position is both hands-on in the field and in the office supporting individuals starting their own farm businesses. The GLFB is looking for an energetic and outgoing person to help grow our new program. This is a GREAT opportunity! Program Description The GLFB has secured funding from the USDA’s Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program to kickstart a new program, Lansing Roots. Lansing Roots is a farm business incubator that aims to assist low-income, historically underserved or beginning farmers in starting their own small-scale farm business. Our first cohort of farmers will begin in Spring 2013. Please visit for more information on Lansing Roots, including our FAQ’s. For more information and to find out how to apply click "read more", do not apply to beginningfarmers.org.

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Duties and Responsibilities
•       Continue development and management of Lansing Roots program; including farm management, marketing and education
•       Assist incubator farmers in Lansing Roots Growing Farmers initiative in creating successful small scale farm enterprises
•       Manage a small team of Lansing Roots staff, including Americorps members, interns and GLFB employees
•       Organize, schedule, and work alongside staff and volunteers to manage the Lansing Roots farm space
•       Organize, schedule or lead (as appropriate) a series of classes and workshops targeted at the technical aspects of growing/farming for Lansing Roots cohort
•       Assist the Lansing Roots cohort of training farmers in day to day production
•       Work with Lansing Roots staff and GLFB warehouse staff to ensure the delivery and distribution of fresh produce grown in the Demonstration farm space to those in need
•       Manage program budget and finances
•       Follow all reporting and guidelines as required by funding sources
•       Continue to build outreach and education capacity through direct contact with community members
•       Other duties consistent with the mission and vision of Lansing Roots and the Greater Lansing Food Bank as a whole

Qualifications
•       Significant experience in small scale farming or agriculture (2+ years preferred)
•       Education/instruction experience in agriculture preferred, including business management
•       Project or grant management experience
•       Demonstrated leadership skills
•       Passion for localizing agriculture
•       Experience with and comfortable interacting with individuals from diverse cultural, income and ethnic backgrounds
•       Ability to work in adverse weather conditions and lift up to 40 pounds
•       Strong record keeping, organization and computer skills
•       Experience in a management or supervisory role with volunteers or staff
•       Ability to work independently or in a group
•       Ability to contribute ideas and solutions to a group or team
•       Outgoing and personable with excellent oral and written communication skills
•       Patient and tactful
•       Team Player willing to take on additional tasks in the busiest parts of the year

Additional Qualifications
•       Accounting or business skills training
•       Valid drivers license and ability to acquire Chauffeur’s license
•       Conflict resolution or facilitation experience
•       Proficiency in all MS office applications
•       Experience or education in marketing, business, agriculture or community development
•       Willingness to learn new things and problem-solve creatively
•       Grant or other fundraising experience
•       Flexible schedule
•       Self-motivation will increase possibilities of position

Compensation
The position is funded for 3 years through a federal USDA grant and salary corresponds to $32,000-34,000. It is the intent to continue the position and program past the term of the grant. Possibilities for position and salary growth for the right candidate. Full benefits including health, dental, vacation and sick time.

How to Apply
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. It is the intent to fill the position ASAP. Please send cover letter and resume to Alex Bryan at alex@greaterlansingfoodbank.org with Lansing Roots Program Manager in the subject line. Preference for .pdf files. Pertinent questions or clarifications welcomed.

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