Who We Are

American Farmland Trust (AFT) is the only national organization focusing on the land, agricultural practices, and farmers and ranchers. Since 1980, we have helped protect over 8 million acres of agricultural lands, promoted environmentally sound farming on millions more, and supported thousands of farm families. AFT continues to lead efforts addressing agriculture's most pressing needs.

Position Summary

AFT has been pivotal in shaping agricultural policy at both state and federal levels, including introducing the Conservation Title to the 1985 Farm Bill and advancing farmland protection, farm viability, and tax policies. AFT is developing a multiyear strategy to drive agricultural policy, including the next Farm Bill. To support this, we seek a National Policy Director to enhance synergies between state and federal policy work, expand team capacity, and provide strategic leadership.

Reporting to the Vice President of Policy, the National Policy Director will help shape and execute AFT’s policy agenda, working closely with federal and state policy teams as well as program, communications, and research staff. This position can be performed remotely, with occasional travel (15%).

Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Planning:

• • Lead planning and coordination of policy efforts between state and national teams.
  • Contribute to advocacy and communication plans, including state-level and Farm Bill advocacy.

Management & Policy Advancement:

• • Facilitate meetings and provide training/resources for policy staff.
  • Manage aspects of AFT’s federal policy portfolio.
  • Review and approve materials developed by national policy staff.
  • Oversee budgets, work plans, program metrics, and internal reporting.
  • Manage external consultant relationships.
  • Support team culture of collaboration and problem-solving.

Communications:

• • Represent AFT’s policy priorities in media, public events, and stakeholder meetings.
  • Draft white papers, public comments, and other policy-related communications.

Fundraising:

• • Collaborate with development staff to identify funding sources and contribute to grant proposals and reports.

Qualifications

Required Skills:

• • Deep commitment to advancing AFT’s mission through research-driven policy.
  • Proven ability to lead and deliver policy outcomes.
  • Knowledge of legislative and agency policy processes.
  • Strong project management skills and ability to work with diverse teams.
  • Experience building partnerships with stakeholders, including farmers, non-profits, and government agencies.
  • Exceptional writing and communication skills for diverse audiences.
  • Supervisory experience and collaborative mindset.
  • Dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and meet demanding deadlines.
  • Willingness to travel up to 15%.

Desired Skills:

• • Familiarity with agricultural programs related to conservation, farmland protection, and viability.
  • Experience in state policy development or advocacy.
  • Established relationships with relevant stakeholders, legislative, and agency staff.

Education & Experience

• • Bachelor’s or master’s degree in public policy, political science, agriculture, or environmental science.
  • At least 10 years of policy experience, with 6 years focused on agricultural conservation or viability. Relevant postgraduate degrees or programs can substitute for experience.

Working Conditions/Travel

• • Flexibility to work evenings or weekends as needed.
  • Position does not require Washington, DC residence but involves travel to national and regional offices and other locations.

Compensation

• • Salary: $120,000 to $140,000, based on experience.
  • Full benefits package, including health insurance, 401(k) with 10% match, paid leave, and holidays.

Why Apply?

• • Join a purpose-driven, high-performing team.
  • Contribute to a mission-driven organization.
  • Competitive compensation and benefits.
  • Remote work opportunities and flexible scheduling.

Timeline

Applications must include a resume, cover letter, and responses to screener questions. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

AFT values diversity, equity, and inclusion and is committed to fostering an inclusive culture where all employees feel empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. Read AFT’s statement on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice for more details.