Company description

At Crabtree Farms of Chattanooga, we are passionate about sustainable agriculture, and the power of locally grown food. Nestled in the heart of the beautiful Clifton Hills neighborhood, just outside of downtown Chattanooga, this 22-acre urban farm has been a beacon of sustainable farming practices and a hub for community development since its inception.

Crabtree’s unique approach to urban farming and community building was seeded in 1998 through an innovative partnership between local visionaries and the City of Chattanooga. Over the years, the farm has evolved and expanded, but the core values have remained steadfast. Today, Crabtree Farms is a thriving, multifaceted organization that encompasses not only sustainable agriculture but also educational programs, community outreach, and a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Job description

The Executive Director leads Crabtree Farms and serves as the organizational representative for funds and programmatic partnerships, particularly in community and regional food and land access initiatives. This role involves overseeing the leadership team, ensuring the effective execution of strategic goals, and managing all aspects of fundraising and community partnerships. The Executive Director will drive the development and implementation of major fundraising campaigns, corporate sponsorships, and key events, such as the Annual 100 Dinner & Auction. Additionally, the Executive Director is responsible for organizational oversight, including leadership of the Farm Programs Director, Horticulture Director, and Director of Development.

Key Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategic Oversight:
Provide leadership and direction to the administrative staff team, including the Farm Programs Director, Horticulture Director, and Director of Development. Work in collaboration with directors and managers to ensure alignment with the farm’s mission and strategic goals, particularly in land use, community engagement, and resource distribution. Guide the execution of Crabtree Farms’ strategic plan, ensuring the proper use and care of land for both farm production and community use.

Funds Development & Marketing:
Lead the development and implementation of funds development strategies, including the Annual and Sustainer Campaigns, corporate sponsorships, and grant proposals.
Oversee the planning and execution of the Annual 100 Dinner & Auction, a key fundraising event for Crabtree Farms.
Cultivate and manage relationships with donors, corporate sponsors, and community partners to secure funding and resources for the organization.
Develop and execute marketing and communications strategies in collaboration with the Director of Administration and Development to raise awareness of Crabtree Farms’ mission and programs.

Grant Proposal Development:
Lead the creation, submission, and management of grant proposals to secure funding for Crabtree Farms' programs and initiatives.
Work with team members to identify new funding opportunities and ensure timely and accurate reporting to funders.

Community & Regional Partnerships:
Represent Crabtree Farms in the community and build partnerships that further the mission of food and land access.
Develop and implement strategies to foster community partnerships and regional collaboration in food systems and sustainable agriculture.

General Organizational Oversight:
Provide high-level oversight to farm programs and operations, ensuring effective management of day-to-day activities and long-term strategic goals.
Other related assignments as necessary.

Qualifications:

Proven experience in nonprofit leadership, with a focus on program development, fundraising, and community partnerships.
At least 5 years of experience in senior management or executive roles, preferably within a nonprofit or community-based organization.
Demonstrated ability to lead a diverse team and collaborate across departments to achieve organizational goals.
Strong experience in funds development, including annual campaigns, corporate sponsorships, and grant writing.
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to represent the organization effectively to a wide range of stakeholders.
Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
Proficiency in Google Suite and experience with fundraising and donor management software.
A passion for sustainable agriculture, community engagement, and Crabtree Farms' mission.

Work Environment:

Some evening and weekend hours are required, especially for major events and community engagement.
Ability to work both in an office setting and off-site, in various weather conditions.
Regular attendance at weekly directors meetings and participation in organizational events.

Benefits:

Healthcare benefits
Access to fresh seasonal produce
Paid holidays and up to 10 days paid vacation
SIMPLE IRA with employer match

Compensation

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

Application instructions

Deadline

no deadline