Western Fair District is seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to step into the role of Agri-Business Manager on a temporary basis to cover a maternity leave. This contract position will continue through November 2026.This exciting opportunity involves leading a variety of key agricultural events and initiatives, including the National Poultry Show, London Farm Show, and Western Fair livestock programming, while also supporting innovative agri-tech projects through Innovation Farms Ontario and the AgRobotics Working Group..

Key Responsibilities:

Agricultural Event Leadership

• Lead the planning and execution of major ag events including the National Poultry Show, London Farm Show, and livestock displays at the Western Fair.
• Manage all aspects of event development: budgeting, logistics, exhibitor coordination, team leadership, and post-event evaluation.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with departments such as Marketing, Sales, Operations, and Security to ensure successful execution.
• Act as the on-site event lead during setup, event days, and teardown.

AgRobotics & Innovation Program Management

• Lead the AgRobotics Working Group, fostering partnerships with producers, researchers, vendors, and funding partners.
• Budget & track finances for the AgRobotics Working Group and Innovation Farms Ontario, including ensuring reporting deadlines are met between each project
• Manage research projects and demonstration initiatives aimed at accelerating agri-tech adoption.
• Organize Knowledge Translation & Transfer (KTT) activities, industry demos, and student-focused programs.
• Oversee the development of the AgRobotics Lab at The Grove.

Systems & Technology

• Gain an understanding for Ungerboeck event management software: training, troubleshooting, and system optimization.

Qualifications:

• Post-secondary education in Agriculture, Event Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience in agricultural events, programming, or innovation-focused projects.
• Strong understanding of Ontario’s agri-food sector and emerging ag technologies.
• Strong skills in project management, communication, and stakeholder engagement.
• Experience with industry associations, research organizations, or public-sector partners is an asset.
• Ability to track time allocated between different projects and events, ensuring funding guidelines are met and timing is managed properly
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with Ungerboeck software preferred.
• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends during key events.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Interested in joining our Team? Submit your application by clicking on APPLY TO THIS POSITION.

A portion of this role’s wage is funded through the AgRobotics Working Group and the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, as well as a portion through Innovation Farms Ontario, funded by FCC AgExpert. The applicant is required to manage time allocations between each project.

Job Types: Part-time, Fixed term contract, Casual
Contract length: 14 months

Pay: $65,000.00-$82,000.00 per year

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

Employee assistance program
On-site parking
Schedule:

Holidays
Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person