Executive Director

Organization Description

We are excited to announce that Davidson County Local Food Network (DCLFN) is currently seeking a dedicated and passionate individual to join our team as the Executive Director. This part-time role offers an opportunity to lead our organization in promoting community health and strengthening the local economy as we build an equitable local food system.

Davidson County Local Food Network (DCFLN) is dedicated to promoting community health and strengthening the local economy through an equitable and economically viable local food system. Our mission encompasses ensuring affordable access to local food, encouraging sustainable agriculture practices, supporting farmers, educating the community, engaging with diverse stakeholders, and ultimately improving community health by fostering a thriving local food economy.

Job Description

The Executive Director will oversee strategic and operational responsibilities, working closely with the Board of Directors and staff to manage operations, identify and pursue funding sources, and provide strategic direction to ensure long-term sustainability. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in nonprofit management and a strong commitment to fostering a thriving local food economy.

Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate will have extensive experience leading and/or consulting with nonprofit organizations and a broad nonprofit management skill set, including familiarity with nonprofit fiscal management. This position is currently part-time (15-20 hours per week) with hourly compensation ranging from $25-$35 an hour, depending on experience. Our intention is to grow this position from part-time to full-time.

Principle Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership, management, and direction to staff and the Board of Directors to ensure the effective operation of all development activities required to fund DCLFN operations and deliver programs within the community.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, board members, volunteers, community groups, and other related agencies,
• Work with the food hub operation team to build customer and partner accounts with the goal of maximizing locally-sourced foods.
• Oversee and serve as project manager for Piedmont Fresh programs, such as FarmsSHARE, Farm Fresh Nourish, prescription food boxes, and other food access programs.
• Manage program budgets.
• Support financial management in tracking, bookkeeping, payment collection from donors, and reporting on expenditures for programs.
• Evaluate current revenue streams for long-term sustainability and alignment with the mission.
• Develop, implement, and maintain donor financial records in accordance with DCLFN standards.
• Cultivate relationships with foundations, corporations, local businesses for sustained funding and in-kind services.
• Update current cultivation and solicitation materials.
• Prepare and present proposals for individual, corporate, and foundation support of DCLFN.
• Identify, write, report, and manage grant opportunities.
• Coordinate with the Marketing Coordinator to support communication needs through newsletters, blogs, contact lists, content management, organization branding, events, etc.
• Cultivate new relationships to deepen and broaden DCLFN’s impact while leveraging existing partnerships to ensure the best support for the community.
• Represent DCLFN at community, recruiting, and professional events.
• Maintain regular monthly and quarterly Key Performance Indicators (KPI) reporting and data collection efforts, including those associated with grant deliverables and other requirements as needed.
• Work with the Board of Directors to conduct organizational strategic planning.
• Review and revise governance policies and procedures to ensure best practices and effectiveness.
• Support board development efforts to strengthen Board of Directors’ competencies and engagement.

Competencies:

• Critical thinking and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
• High level communication and public speaking skills.
• Understanding of the non-profit sector and program management.
• Strong analytical, written, and verbal reasoning skills.
• Excellent computer skills, including proficiency in GSuite, MS Office, and bookkeeping software.
• Self-directed with strong organizational skills
• Respect and patience for diverse personalities and situations.
• Ideally, knowledge about local food system issues and challenges.

Work Environment: This hybrid position involves working in diverse settings, including a professional office, warehouse facilities, restaurants, grocery stores, and both organizational and privately-owned farms. The role requires regular use of technology and equipment such as computers, printers, and label makers. Active community engagement and outreach are essential, necessitating attendance at meetings, lunches, dinners, and events, which may occur during evenings and weekends. Evening and weekend work may be required to fulfill these responsibilities.

Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, sit, use hands, and climb stairs. The employee must be able to lift and/or move up to 35 pounds.

Travel: Day trips and potential overnight conferences.

Required Education and/or Experience: BA/BS Degree or higher or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Experience in the produce and farming industry, food access, and/or health promotion.
• Experience with nonprofit program management.
• Experience with MS Office, GSuite, and bookkeeping software.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications:

• Clean driving record.

Other Duties: This job description does not contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change seasonally. Other duties may be required as requested by the board.