Norwood Food Pantry Co-Assistant Director

The Norwood Food Pantry in Norwood Massachusetts is looking for a Co-Assistant Director. This volunteer position is currently a collaborative Co-Assistant Director position (CAD), subject to change with the ability to move into the Executive Director position depending on experience and performance. The CAD works under the direction of the Board of Directors, managing all operational aspects of the Norwood Food Pantry.

The Co-Assistant Director is a volunteer position. The time commitment is approximately 15-20 hours per week spread over 2 to 3 weekday mornings plus at least 3 Saturday mornings a month on a regular basis. (The Executive Director position would be about 25-32 hours per week, with Saturday requirements).

The Co-Assistant Director (CAD) co-leads food pantry operations, including but not limited to: managing volunteers, overseeing daily logistics (procurement, inventory, distribution), client relations, maintaining financial health, and championing the pantry's mission. The CAD ensures efficient, safe daily operations, with a strong focus on client service and community partnerships.

The CAD will work alongside the Board of Directors to develop programs and policies, ensure accurate data management, secure grants/donations, participate in strategic planning, fundraising (grants, donors, events), and marketing. If an Executive Director has been identified, then the CAD would work under their direction.

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Key Responsibilities (including, but not limited to):

• Leadership & Strategy: Collaborate with the Board of Directors to set strategic direction and develop long-range plans, ensuring mission alignment.
• Operations: Oversee Food Pantry operations, set policies and programs to ensure smooth daily operations, routinely review procedures to ensure the pantry grows with the dynamic challenges of clients and the pantry needs.
• Inventory Management: Oversee daily activities, including food procurement from various organizations/vendors, inventory control, stocking, food safety, facility maintenance, and distribution.
• Fundraising & Development: Provide insights into the execution and management of organizational food drives, fundraising activities, grants, and cultivating major donors.
• Volunteer & Staff Management: Supervise volunteers, positions and relations. Alongside the Volunteer coordinator(s), oversee the recruitment, training, and scheduling of the volunteer base, fostering a positive environment.
• Community Relations & Marketing: Alongside the Outreach coordinator, build partnerships with local organizations, promote the pantry's mission, and increase community awareness.
• Financial Stewardship: Ensure fiscal responsibility and provide financial updates/reports as needed to the Treasurer.
• Board Relations: Work closely with Board of Directors executive team and committees (planning, finance, etc.) and report on progress and challenges.

Essential Skills & Qualifications

• Strong leadership, management, and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication (written/oral) and interpersonal skills.
• Financial management experience.
• Passion for fighting food insecurity and serving marginalized communities.
• Ability to work with a variety of personalities and handle conflict in a professional manner.
• Proficiency with computers, databases, and social media. Including Microsoft Office products and Google (Gmail and Drive). Experience with Oasis and GBFB systems is desired but not required.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions.
• Experience in nonprofit or small business management is desired

Work Environment

• Will involve office work, warehouse settings, and varying temperatures.
• Physical activity includes lifting up to 40 lbs, climbing stairs, reaching and bending.
• Visual acuity sufficient to read computer screens, nutrition labels and expiration dates.
• The ability to read, write and speak English clearly in person and over the phone.
• Flexible hours and days, including Saturdays, and being available when the pantry is open to clients.