Food Initiatives Manager

Organization Description

At Greater Newark Conservancy, we are dedicated to enhancing the well-being of Newark's communities through nutrition-focused education and inclusive wellness programs. Our approach integrates hands-on community programs and food service educational seminars to promote sustainable health and wellness practices. We empower individuals and communities to lead healthier lives by providing access to gardens, nutritious food, and wellness resources. Join us as we cultivate growth and nurture well-being throughout the city of Newark, New Jersey.

Position Description

In addition to being one of the largest urban food producers in New Jersey, Greater Newark Conservancy’s Food Initiatives team distributes fresh, affordable produce to Newark residents through operating regular farmers’ markets, mobile farmstands and a year-round Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. We are seeking a reliable, motivated and strong leader to run the Food Initiatives program, overseeing food distribution and access, marketing and outreach, community engagement and supporting the strategic direction of the program, with the goal of building and sustaining market infrastructure and addressing food insecurity in Newark. Applicants for this position should be interested in improving food access conditions and engaging community members in healthy eating and lifestyle choices. The ideal candidate will have strong relationships with communities in Newark.

The Food Initiatives Manager will have a regular schedule, typically Monday-Friday, with some evening and weekend hours required. Applicants should be prepared to maintain a consistent work schedule and be comfortable working in various outdoor conditions.

Primary Program and Field Work Responsibilities

• Oversee the success of all market programs, connecting vendors, growers and community members to market and food access opportunities through marketing and outreach and community engagement
• Oversee all operations and staffing of farmers' markets and farmstands, including setup before market hours and breakdown afterwards
• Run the year-round CSA program with the goal of increasing the number of boxes distributed quarterly
• Supervise the Food Initiatives team and ensure proper training of food safety protocols
• Keep accurate records and data of all market activities, including produce inventory, sales data, vendor information, evaluations, and customer surveys and suggestions.
• In coordination with the Food Production team, ensure the availability of produce and/or procure additional produce as necessary.
• Ensure proper usage and maintenance of the walk-in cooler and other produce storage protocols
• Seek out and plan community food distribution opportunities to include senior and/or low-income housing areas, collaborations with community and healthcare organizations, community events, etc.
• Maintain professional appearance of all markets and farmstands, ensure equipment and supplies are organized and documentation and training is implemented for all team members as needed
• Follow all documented guidelines, procedures, and checklists for market operations, and recommend new or improved systems as necessary
• Transport supplies and produce between the growing facility, cold storage and markets as necessary
• Act as an ambassador of Greater Newark Conservancy at various public events and be prepared to talk with customers about Greater Newark Conservancy’s mission and programs
• Support the strategic direction of the Food Initiatives program by working with the Director or Urban Agriculture to develop programs that will address food insecurity in Newark

Secondary Program Responsibilities

• Assist with planning, production, and maintenance of crops, in addition to other projects at the hydroponic greenhouse or other growing facility
• Supervise and evaluate performance of college and high school interns participating in the farm stand program
• Assist in planning and facilitation of community programs and events at local urban farms and community gardens
• Other responsibilities as they arise

Qualifications

• BA/BS, preferably in Food Systems, Agriculture, Environmental Studies, Public Health, Nutrition, Community Development, or work equivalent
• 3-5 years of experience in program management, food systems, farmers markets, community food access, or related community programs
• 2-3 years of supervisory experience
• Excellent communication and computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel)
• Intermediate knowledge of food safety regulations and protocols. ServSafe certification preferred
• Ability to organize and maintain detailed records, operate a Point-of-Sale system and manage relevant data and information
• Strong people management, interpersonal, and supervisory skills
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record required

Success Factors

• Commitment to racial, environmental, and food justice
• Able to work outdoors to operate markets and run events in variable conditions
• Passion for food justice, community health and supporting local food systems
• Commitment to equity and inclusion in food access programming

Physical Demands

The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

• Regular work schedule for this position is approximately 40 hours per week (Monday-Friday) and may require additional hours, including on weekends, as necessary
• Unless otherwise noted, this role will take place in person, either in the office of Greater Newark Conservancy, or out in the field
• Must regularly lift and/or move up to 20 pounds
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include: Close vision, Distance vision, Peripheral vision, Depth perception, Ability to adjust focus and Ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of color and brightness
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear
• The employee is frequently required to stand, bend, and walk

Compensation: The salary range for this position is $52,000 to $60,000 per year plus benefits

To Apply: Send a resume and cover letter to Abigail Martone at abigail@greaternewark.org. In the subject line of your email, indicate that you are applying for the Food Initiatives Manager position.

Medical and Dental, Flexible Time Off, Maternity Leave, Summer Fridays, Professional Development Opportunities

English - high proficiency

Other languages a plus