Northland Potato Growers Association (NPGA) seeks a dynamic and visionary Executive Director to provide strategic leadership and oversee the non-profit organization's day-to-day operations. The Executive Director will drive initiatives to promote the profitability and unity of potato growers in Minnesota and North Dakota through developing and promoting quality potatoes and potato products.

The successful candidate for NPGA's Executive Director position must possess a genuine passion for agriculture and be capable of catalyzing meaningful change within the association and the broader agricultural community. This individual will exemplify a collaborative and inclusive leadership style, fostering partnerships across local and national organizations.

Additionally, the Executive Director must exhibit resilience in the face of the uncertainties and challenges inherent to agriculture. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills are essential for effectively conveying the association's initiatives to diverse audiences while maintaining a steadfast commitment to ethical standards and integrity in all endeavors.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and assumes responsibility for overseeing office operations, personnel management, budgeting, financial operations, and public relations.
• Cultivate strong relationships with a diverse membership base while navigating the legislative and regulatory landscape at local, state, and national levels.
• Foster participation and engagement at all organizational levels, focusing on nurturing emerging leaders' development within the grower membership.
• Proactively identify and recruit prospective new members or businesses to diversify and enhance the Association's strength.
• Collaborate closely with organizations such as National Potato Council, Potatoes USA, governmental entities, commodity groups, committees, and other agricultural organizations with aligned objectives.
• Provide support and oversight in monitoring local and national legislative and regulatory issues.
• Engage with national and state agricultural agencies to secure grants and funding opportunities for potato-related research and marketing initiatives.
• Manage all marketing, research, and education endeavors for the chip, fresh, seed, and processed potato markets under the purview of NPGA.
• Assume the role of primary spokesperson in public forums, advocating for the best interests of the local and national potato industry.
• Maintain a flexible schedule for regular travel commitments, including occasional evening and weekend work.
• Perform any additional duties as assigned by the Board of Directors to support the organization's overall objectives and mission.
   

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A Bachelor's degree, preferably with a focus on administration and management, coupled with demonstrated experience in leadership roles within agricultural organizations.
• A proven track record of 7-10 years in business and government positions within the agricultural sector, showcasing expertise in navigating complex agricultural environments.
• Familiarity with the challenges, emerging trends, and evolving dynamics within the agriculture industry.
• Excellent networking abilities, coupled with strong communication, public relations, and leadership skills.  
• A comprehensive understanding of the legislative and regulatory landscape pertinent to the agriculture domain, enabling effective advocacy and compliance strategies. 

Please apply by clicking APPLY TO THIS POSITION below.