Company description

El Alba’s mission is to foster, nourish, and promote Aurora-based food entrepreneurs and small business owners by creating a network of shared resources, knowledge, and opportunities that empower their sustainable growth. The cooperative was formed in response to the urgent needs of Aurora residents and small business owners in combating harmful gentrification and economic disparities among our immigrant, indigenous, black, and other underserved populations. This cooperative model offers culturally appropriate business incubation and shared enterprise services for economically disadvantaged business owners, with a goal of building community wealth and driving economic stability.

Our work reflects a strong understanding of gaps in services, such as accessible multi-lingual training and leadership development, while striving to bridge economic opportunities for community members and entrepreneurs in launching their small business. By encouraging inclusivity, cultural diversity, and local ownership, we aim to strengthen food security, champion economic justice, and build resilience within Aurora’s communities, creating a thriving ecosystem where every small business contributes to the well-being of its neighbors.

Job description

El Alba Cooperative Project Manager

Status: Full-time, 40 hours
Compensation: $55,000-$65,000 (commensurate on experience) Deadline for Submission: January 10th, 2024
Location: Aurora, CO

Overview
El Alba’s mission is to support, incubate, and nourish Aurora-based food entrepreneurs and small business owners. We provide culturally appropriate business incubation and shared services through a cooperative model designed to empower economically disadvantaged business owners. Since its founding in 2020, El Alba has worked to close service gaps and create economic opportunities for immigrant and people of color business owners in Aurora. Our goal is to champion community wealth-building and financial stability.

Purpose
We are seeking a results-driven Project Manager with expertise in business, operations, and marketing development. This role is crucial in driving growth, financial success, and the transition of El Alba into a fully functional food service business. The Project Manager will oversee key projects and contracts, manage member services, coordinate with community stakeholders, and ensure the sustainability of the cooperative business model.

Key Responsibilities

Project Planning and Execution
- Implement and oversee an efficient commissary kitchen system, including equitable scheduling, supervision, and routine maintenance to maximize usage and cleanliness.
- Coordinate kitchen operations, ensuring that all members have appropriate business documentation and certifications.
- Support development of retail area operations and apprenticeship program

Business and Operations Development
- Establish and manage new business opportunities and contracts for El Alba Coop.
- Conduct El Alba Coop’s administrative duties, such as phone, email, and website inquiries, in a professional and timely manner.
- Assist with the tracking of inventory, ordering of product, and management of supplies to ensure routine maintenance and upkeep of the food service equipment and facilities.

Financial Management
- In consultation with accountant, monitor project budgets, track expenses, and ensure financial accountability.
- Manage El Alba Coop accounts and contractual obligations, ensure proper tracking and completion, and prepare regular progress reports.
- Develop and implement strategies to maximize revenue from the commissary kitchen, retail space, and other cooperative ventures.

Cooperative Member Support
- Serve as the main point of contact for El Alba Coop member and non-member clients, offering ongoing support and resources.
- Oversee member onboarding, training, and business plan development, prioritizing safety protocols, licensing, and kitchen use policies.
- Provide guidance on marketing, financial management, and business growth.

Preferred Candidate Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
- 3-5 years of experience in project management, business development, sales, or entrepreneurship.
- Strong understanding of cooperative business models, economic justice, and the challenges faced by underserved communities.
- Proven track record of driving business growth and managing multiple projects within budget and timelines.
- Financial acumen with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and networking skills.
- Proficiency in project management and business development tools (e.g., CRM systems, Optix, Food Corridor, Square, Toast, Commissary, etc).
- Bilingual in English and Spanish (or other relevant languages) is highly preferred.

Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Health benefits
- Retirement benefits (COSecureSavings)
- Paid time off and holidays
- Professional development opportunities
- The chance to make a significant impact on the Aurora community by supporting local food entrepreneurs and community wealth building

About Your Audience
You will work closely with entrepreneurs, small business owners, the Executive Director, and Board of Directors. El Alba is an equal opportunity employer committed to equity and diversity. We encourage applications from people traditionally underrepresented in the workforce, including Black, Indigenous, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities.

Compensation

this position is: salaried, $50,000 - $75,000

Application instructions

Deadline

January 10, 2025