About Alberta Grains

Alberta Grains, newly formed as the result of the amalgamation of the Alberta Wheat Commission and Alberta Barley is a farmer-led, not-for-profit organization. Alberta Grains will build on the strengths of both organizations to create a unified voice for the province's 18,000 wheat and barley farmers. With a focus on economic sustainability, innovation and growth, Alberta Grains will leverage the combined resources, knowledge, and experience to deliver unparalleled value to its membership. Alberta Grains, operational as of August 2023, will remain at the offices of the former commissions in Calgary, Alberta.

About the Opportunity

Alberta Grains is seeking an experienced Executive Director to lead our organization and diverse team. The team is engaged in research, policy, government relations, market development, agronomy, extension, communications, events, and publication of GrainsWest magazine and administration of the FarmCash cash advance program.

The Executive Director will play a vital role in fostering a positive and inclusive work culture. They will prioritize efficient processes that yield successful outcomes, ultimately benefiting our valued producers. The needs of Alberta wheat and barley farmers will be their top priority as they champion their interests throughout the organization.

Your essential responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Being an influential leader that is building alignment across the organization
• Developing and maintaining strong relationships in the industry, and region, among peers, associations, and key stakeholders
• Articulating the vision, mission, and overall strategy & direction of the newly amalgamated commission
• Enabling and facilitating continued growth and development of the staff of Alberta Grains by being a strong mentor and supporter
• Maintaining a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusivity in keeping with the values of Alberta Grains
• Ensuring that farmers are receiving a meaningful return for their levies
• Growing Alberta Grains' influence with other stakeholders in the industry through strong communication, engagement, and participation in discussions around issues of interest to our farmers
• Participating in meetings and forums, developing relationships and engaging with industry partners
• Aligning expenses and revenues with approved fiscal budgets
• Working collaboratively with the board and various sub-committees
• Providing leadership to and managing the efforts of site staff to ensure appropriate support for all departments
• Planning, organizing, and directing the organization's operations and programs
• Retaining a diverse, highly qualified staff by developing opportunities for career growth, and personal development

About You

To qualify, you must have a post-secondary degree, preferably in business administration, commerce, political science, or law, as well as, a minimum of 10 years of experience in a senior leadership role. You must also have agriculture industry experience (farming, marketing, governance, research).

The following will be critical to successfully performing this role:

• Experience working within regulatory environments
• Demonstrated success in leading through change management situations
• Proven ability to manage several reports.
• Strong understanding of good governance principles

Preferred Requirements

• Experience in the not-for-profit and/or industry association sector
• Previous service on a board of directors
• Involvement in committee work
• Working knowledge of Alberta Labor Law
• Experience dealing with multiple levels of government

The successful candidate will demonstrate an unbridled passion for agriculture. They will be as open, engaging and adept at dealing with external stakeholders as they are at supporting and growing their internal staff.

About the Benefits

As a valued member of our team, you will be rewarded with an annual salary ranging from $170K - $180K, (negotiable based on skills and experience), along with a host of great benefits:

• Excellent health, vision, and dental benefits package
• Paid vacation and sick days
• Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability
• Group RRSP up to 5% matched by employer
• Health spending account
• Relocation allowance (will be considered if outside the Calgary area)

If you have the skills necessary to succeed in this role, apply now!