Executive Director

CISA Executive Director South Deerfield, Massachusetts

About CISA : Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) strengthens farms and engages the community to build the local food economy.

We have been working for over 30 years to build a stronger, more resilient, and more just local food system. CISA contributes to creating a local food system where farms are viable, working conditions are fair and just for owners and workers, the environment is respected, and locally grown food is available for all.

If you want to know about the requirements for this role, read on for all the relevant information.

Profile of the Ideal Candidate : The next Executive Director of CISA will be a seasoned organizational leader who will demonstrate many of the attributes, skills, and experiences listed below, and will be capable of leading an organization of CISA's size and scope.

While we understand that candidates may not have all these qualities, if you meet many and are passionate about our mission, we encourage you to apply.

Visionary and Strategic Executive : Agriculture and food systems knowledge and / or experience. Demonstrated ability to lead and implement a strategic organizational vision and plan.

Proven success in bringing new ideas, innovation, and bold thinking to an organization. Skilled at championing a vision to leverage funding, partnerships, and public awareness.

Able to navigate and adapt to changing circumstances and new challenges.

Relational, Collaborative and a Community Builder : Proven track record of listening to community, assessing trends and aligning organizational values and work with community needs.

Highly collaborative, flexible, and patient with a diverse set of internal and external stakeholders. Brings strong, diplomatic verbal communication and storytelling skills.

Wisdom to engage and successfully build community with many different constituencies; is a good translator of different points of view.

Knowledge of the Connecticut River Valley region is a plus, although familiarity with other agricultural regions comprised of rural and urban areas is welcomed.

Fundraising & Financial Acumen : Experienced building and maintaining donor relationships including cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship.

Practiced in the strategy of fundraising - foundation relationships, appeals, membership programs, and campaigns. Business acumen in operations and management, with the financial fluency necessary to manage a budget, financial reporting, and planning.

Facilitative, Authentic, and Open Leader : Warm, compassionate, respectful, and approachable. Displays emotional maturity and a sense of self;

able to hold an independent voice and make effective decisions. Has balanced leadership skills; listens well and is comfortable leading from behind.

Good communicator, able to clearly articulate priorities and decisions and to bring people along. Eager to continuously learn and grow, both personally and professionally.

Commitment to Equity : A deep understanding of racial equity issues in the agricultural industry and food system. A track record of leading initiatives to promote equity within an organization.

Experience applying an intersectional lens to addressing complex problems. Ability to engage effectively with diverse communities and foster an inclusive environment.

A Seasoned Executive Manager : Experienced with organizational and staff management, including excellent supervisory skills and the kindness and passion to develop, support and lead a team.

A proven record of success in managing growth. Experienced with managing risk; a solution-finder. The ability to share decision-making power, work collaboratively, and provide clarity and transparency in decision-making processes.

Familiarity with nonprofit board engagement.

Desired Credentials : A minimum of 7 years of experience as an organizational leader with increasing levels of responsibility, and at least five as an executive director or senior leader.

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