The Cornucopia Institute is seeking candidates for its Executive Director position. Applicants for this position should possess demonstrated leadership experience, fundraising and financial management expertise, and nonprofit management and organizational skills. A heartfelt passion for the good food movement, human health, humane livestock husbandry, and social/economic justice for family farmers is essential.

Formed in 2004, The Cornucopia Institute is the leading advocate for integrity within the organic and sustainable food and farming marketplace. We seek to protect the organic standards from erosion, to educate consumers about agricultural and production practices in organic agriculture so they can support ethical farmers and brands, and to call out agribusinesses whose industrial practices do not adhere to the letter and intent of organic law.

Core Values of The Cornucopia Institute

Integrity is the root of the organic community and is essential to the work we provide to our constituency. The Cornucopia Institute aims for full transparency in its efforts.
The Cornucopia Institute is a watchdog within the organic industry, working to protect the character of the organic standards while auditing the integrity of products bearing the organic seal.
The Cornucopia Institute researches issues and promotes findings, based in science, that are fundamental to maintaining the integrity of organic and sustainable production, processing, labeling, and marketing.
The Cornucopia Institute aims to be a vocal, visible catalyst for interaction between consumers and producers within the good food movement.
The Cornucopia Institute works to identify and collaborate with likeminded organizations and individuals. We are a unifying force within the authentic organic industry.
The Cornucopia Institute is committed to treating others, including its dedicated champions, volunteers, and staff, with the utmost respect.

Primary responsibilities for this position:

Leadership

Develop internal processes for dynamic planning, clarifying strategies, setting benchmarks, and staying mission focused
Represent the organization at meetings, conferences, and other events and while speaking to reporters, donors, and government officials
Develop and maintain relationships with other organizations in order to create partnerships for large-scale problem solving
Cultivate and enhance the reputation of the organization
Engage in regular communication with the board to keep its members informed of operational issues and receive input on organizational management.
Ensure that the organization remains focused on its strategic goals and ethical standards
Implement a management structure that cultivates leadership and autonomy so that staff can express their full potential within the organization.

Fundraising and Financial Management

Set fundraising goals and work with the team to meet them
Produce an annual budget and other financial statements
Approve expenditures, administer funds according to the annual budget, monitor cash flow, and ensure sound accounting practices are followed
Assist the development team in fundraising activities as needed

Operations

Oversee the day-to-day operations of the organization
Support leadership staff, including the development director, policy directors, and operations director
As a member of the policy team, provide guidance and support to the policy staff
Draft and develop policies and procedures for the efficient functioning of the organization
Maintain optimal staffing, provide staff training and orientation, and adhere to established human resources policies and procedures
Foster effective teamwork among staff

Qualifications and required skills and abilities

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college and at least 5 years of management experience in the nonprofit sector preferred, though management in the government or business sectors will be considered.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with and among the staff and board of directors; experience with cooperative management techniques strongly preferred
Experience with grant writing and fundraising
Experience managing finances
Strong preference for a background in food and agricultural production issues

The executive director is expected to provide his or her own worksite. Because of this, employment with The Cornucopia Institute is possible anywhere in the U.S.

The Cornucopia Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

How to apply:

If you have an interest in applying your background and skills to affect real change, please forward a letter of inquiry, including salary history/expectations, and resume to [log in to unmask]. No phone calls, please.

The Cornucopia Institute is engaged in educational activities supporting the ecological principles and economic wisdom underlying sustainable and organic agriculture. Through research and investigations on agricultural and food issues, The Cornucopia Institute provides needed information to family farmers, consumers, stakeholders involved in the good food movement, and the media.