The Center for Agricultural Development and Entrepreneurship (CADE) is a thriving not-for-profit organization whose mission is to increase the number and diversity of successful farm enterprises and related businesses in the Catskills, Mohawk Valley and Southern Tier Regions of New York State. Established in 1991, CADE builds a vibrant food system, in which locally owned agricultural businesses prosper and consumers have access to healthy sustainably produced food.

CADE delivers programming and resources through a network of agricultural entrepreneurs and specialists to serve the diverse needs of our farming community. CADE’s core principles and values include: sustainability, collaboration, inclusion and innovation.

CADE works to increase the “Triple Bottom Line” of agricultural development by:

• Increasing profit margins of farm business,
• Promoting sound environmental production practices,
• Engendering positive social outcomes such as job creation, generational farm transition, and enhanced health benefits.

The Executive Director of the Center for Agricultural Development and Entrepreneurship (CADE) reports to the Board of Directors. This position is located in Oneonta, NY, and has several direct reports.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Program Development and Implementation

• Lead program development with food system stakeholder contribution
• With the Board of Directors and staff, carry out organizational plans and policies
• Oversee design, marketing, promotion, delivery and quality of CADE programs, products and services
• Publicize the activities, programs and goals of the organization
• Promote active and broad participation by stakeholders in all areas of the organization's work
• Maintain a working knowledge of significant developments and trends in the farm and food sectors

Financial and Compliance Management

• Develop and maintain sound financial and compliance practices
• Recommend annual budget for Board approval and prudently manage organization's resources within those budget guidelines and according to current laws and regulations
• Ensure that adequate funds are available to permit the organization to carry out its work
• Maintain official records and documents, and ensure compliance with federal, state and local regulations

Institutional Advancement and Development

• Develop and deliver fundraising planning and implementation, including identifying resource requirements, researching funding sources, establishing strategies to approach funders, submitting proposals and administrating fundraising records and documentation

Strategic Partnership Development

• Establish and maintain sound working relationships and cooperative arrangements with partners, grantors, agencies, clients, community groups and organizations
• Develop a new partnership with OtsegoNow, a principal behind the Food Innovation District project in Oneonta, NY
• Represent the programs and point of view of the organization to agencies, organizations and the general public in a consistently strong, positive manner and continue to expand CADE’s presence and expertise throughout the Catskills, Mohawk Valley and Southern Tier Regions

Board Liaising

• Ensure the board is fully informed on the condition of the organization and all important factors influencing it
• Support operations and administration of Board
• Assist the Board in its governance function, as well as organizational and financial planning

Human Resource Management

• Deliver successful recruitment, employment and release of all personnel, including staff, contract consultants and volunteers
• Ensure that job descriptions are developed, regular performance evaluations held, and sound human resource practices are in place
• Maintain a climate that attracts, keeps and motivates a diverse staff and consultants

REQUIREMENTS:

• 8-10 years progressive management experience or related activities in the food and farm sector
• Experience with program development and management, reporting and communications
• Experience in writing, submitting, managing and reporting on USDA and NYS grants
• Knowledge of, and passion for, current farm and food industry and future trends
• Success in recruiting and retaining staff
• Experience in influencing stakeholders and partnership skills
• Demonstrated familiarity with relevant funding agencies
• Experience in complex budget management and projections
• Excellent in finding a balance between process, inclusion and results
• Bachelors required. MA preferred