Business Agricultural Program Manager

The Business Agricultural Program Manager at Making A Difference Foundation in Tacoma, WA, oversees the BIPOC Farm Fresh HUB, supporting BIPOC farmers with training in sustainable practices and market access. Responsibilities include program management, farmer engagement, training development, outreach, and budget management. Candidates should have a relevant degree and experience in program management, particularly with BIPOC communities and sustainable agriculture.
Building a Sustainable Food System

The Program Manager for the BIPOC Farm Fresh HUB and Technical Assistance Program plays a crucial role in overseeing the operations and strategic growth of the HUB. This shared space, equipped with resources and technical assistance, supports BIPOC farmers and ranchers by offering training in sustainable farming practices, business development, and access to markets.

This position is key to empowering small-scale BIPOC farmers and ranchers, contributing to a sustainable and equitable food system.
Key Responsibilities:
• Program Management:
• Oversee daily operations, ensuring smooth use of shared space, equipment, and resources.
• Coordinate educational programs, technical assistance, and business services to support BIPOC farmers' growth and sustainability.
• Manage partnerships with external contractors to deliver business development, marketing, financial management, and sustainable farming practices.
• Maintain clear communication with program participants to understand their needs.
• Farmers Engagement and Support:
• Serve as primary point of contact for BIPOC farmers, providing guidance, support, and resource navigation.
• Foster a collaborative environment within the HUB, encouraging knowledge sharing and community building among participants.
• Help farmers access new markets and grow culturally relevant crops serving their communities.
• Training and Technical Assistance:
• Develop and implement training programs on sustainable farming practices, organic certification, and irrigation systems.
• Coordinate workshops and one-on-one technical assistance in areas such as financial literacy, marketing, grant writing, and microenterprise development.
• Ensure farmers receive ongoing business mentoring and support.
• Outreach and Farmer Recruitment:
• Implement outreach strategies to recruit new BIPOC farmers, ensuring diverse communities are reached.
• Build partnerships with community organizations, agricultural networks, and local government agencies to promote the HUB.
• Distribute culturally relevant marketing materials to raise awareness of the program.
• Program Evaluation and Reporting:
• Track and document program outcomes, including farmers served, business growth, training delivered, and market access achieved.
• Conduct regular evaluations to assess the impact and effectiveness of the program.
• Prepare detailed reports for internal review and external stakeholders.
• Resource and Budget Management:
• Manage the program's budget, allocating resources effectively to meet program goals and farmer needs.
• Oversee the use of HUB equipment, tools, and supplies, ensuring proper maintenance and availability.

Requirements:
• Bachelor's degree in agriculture, nonprofit management, community development, business administration, or a related field (or equivalent work experience).
• 3+ years of experience in program management, preferably in agriculture, food systems, or nonprofit work, focusing on working with BIPOC communities.
• Knowledge of sustainable farming practices, food systems, or urban agriculture.
• Strong project management skills, with ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated experience working with small-scale farmers, food producers, or entrepreneurs, particularly within BIPOC communities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience with budget management and grant reporting.

Preferred Skills and Experience:
• Experience with technical assistance or business development services, particularly in agriculture or food systems.
• Familiarity with local BIPOC farming and food justice movements.
• Passion for social justice, food sovereignty, and supporting the economic empowerment of BIPOC farmers.

Benefits:
• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.

Essential Physical Skills:
• Ability to speak and hear; assists operations and business development.

Environmental Conditions:
• Office environments with occasional visits to external environments.

Disclaimer: This job description is not exhaustive, and all MADF employees may be required to perform duties outside of their typical responsibilities from time to time.