Business Agricultural Program Manager (Onsite-Tacoma, WA)

The Program Manager for the BIPOC Farm Fresh HUB and Technical Assistance Program oversees the operations and strategic growth of the HUB, which provides shared space, equipment, resources, and technical assistance to BIPOC farmers and ranchers. This program supports farmers by offering training in sustainable farming, business development, and access to markets. The Program Manager will collaborate with local BIPOC farmers, external partners, and contractors to deliver comprehensive technical assistance, mentorship, and business services. This position is key to building a sustainable and equitable food system by empowering small-scale BIPOC farmers and ranchers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Program Management:
• Oversee the daily operations of the BIPOC Farm Fresh HUB, ensuring smooth and efficient use of shared space, equipment, and resources.
• Coordinate educational programs, technical assistance, and business services designed to support the growth and sustainability of BIPOC farmers.
• Manage partnerships with external contractors to deliver services in business development, marketing, financial management, and sustainable farming practices.
• Maintain clear and consistent communication with program participants to understand their needs and ensure the HUB’s services meet their evolving requirements.
• Farmer Engagement and Support:
• Serve as the primary point of contact for BIPOC farmers and ranchers participating in the HUB, providing guidance, support, and resource navigation.
• Foster a collaborative environment within the HUB, encouraging knowledge sharing, peer mentoring, and community building among participants.
• Work closely with farmers to help them access new markets and grow culturally relevant crops that serve their communities.
• Training and Technical Assistance:
• Develop and implement training programs focused on sustainable farming practices, organic certification, irrigation systems, and other technical skills needed for successful farming.
• 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 to develop and grow their agricultural businesses.
• Outreach and Farmer Recruitment:
• Implement outreach strategies to recruit new BIPOC farmers and ranchers to join the HUB, ensuring the program reaches diverse communities.
• Build partnerships with community organizations, agricultural networks, and local government agencies to promote the HUB and its resources.
• Distribute culturally relevant marketing materials to raise awareness of the program and its benefits.
• Program Evaluation and Reporting:
• Track and document program outcomes, including the number of farmers served, business growth, training delivered, and market access achieved.
• Conduct regular evaluations to assess the impact and effectiveness of the program and make adjustments as needed.
• Prepare detailed reports for internal review and external stakeholders, including funders and partners.
• Resource and Budget Management:
• Manage the program’s budget, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to meet program goals and farmer needs.
• Oversee the use of HUB equipment, tools, and supplies, ensuring proper maintenance and availability for farmers.

• 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 the 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 the ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders, including farmers, contractors, funders, and community partners.
• 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.

Salary and Benefits:

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

The BIPOC Farm Fresh HUB is a program of Making A Difference Foundation. MADF is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants are considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

To learn more about the organization, please visit www.themadf.org.

Benefits

·         Health insurance, including dental and vision

·         Life insurance

·         Retirement plan and matching funds

·         15 paid holidays

·         Paid time off

·         Professional development assistance

·         Workdays and times will vary

This position requires the use of a personal vehicle, a valid driver’s license, and proof of auto insurance to travel to donor meetings.  Occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Equity and Inclusion

Demonstrate the initiative to learn and enhance skills that promote anti-racism and cultural competency.  A commitment to equity and inclusion as an organizational practice and culture is highly desirable.

Participate in intentional learning efforts, including events relating to understanding institutional racism and building cultural competency.

Peak Performer Commitments

We care about our vision and know we are making a difference through our work.

We value individual contribution and the power of teams.

We build relationships that drive desired results.

MADF’s Values

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

People First

Community

Future Generations

Integrity

Essential Physical Skills

While performing the duties of this job, use a computer keyboard and screen; and speak and hear. The employee assists operations and business development.

This position requires a strong command of the English language with the ability to be understood.

Environmental Conditions

Office environments with occasional visits to external environments. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Disclaimer:

This job description is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for this position. All MADF employees may be required to perform duties outside of their typical responsibilities from time to time, as needed, to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.