Overview

Position Overview

The Executive Director will work in an administrative role, with the primary goals of advocating, building support, and fundraising for the organization. They will collaborate with our two Farm Managers to provide leadership and management of the organization’s operations. The Executive Director will also work closely with the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners to ensure that Barron Creek Farm fulfills its mission, achieves its strategic goals, and maintains financial sustainability. ‘

The Executive Director role is a full-time, exempt position. For the right candidate, this could be a part time position. This role is primarily in-person and not suitable for remote work.

Key Responsibilities

  1. Leadership & Strategic Vision
  • Provide visionary leadership that upholds and advances the farm’s mission and core values.
  • Develop and implement short and long-term strategic goals and objectives to guide organizational growth and impact.
  • Ensure effective management of operations, positioning the farm for long-term growth and sustainability.
  1. Farm Operations & Management
  • Ensure all farm activities comply with relevant regulations and reflect industry best practices.
  • Develop and implement systems to monitor and enhance farm productivity, sustainability, and operational efficiency.
  1. Financial Management
  • Oversee the development and management of the farm’s annual budget.
  • Monitor financial performance and develop strategies to ensure long-term financial sustainability, including fundraising, grant writing, and revenue-generating initiatives.
  • Ensure proper accounting procedures and financial controls are in place, working with an accountant or financial team as needed.
  • Prepare and present financial reports to the Board of Directors.
  1. Fundraising & Development
  • Lead fundraising efforts to support farm programs, including grant writing, donor cultivation, and fostering community partnerships.
  • Build and maintain relationships with individual donors, local businesses, foundations, and government agencies.
  • Plan and execute fundraising events, campaigns, and other development activities to increase visibility and support.
  1. Community Engagement & Partnerships
  • Foster strong relationships with the local community, stakeholders, and partners.
  • Represent the farm at public forums, meetings, and community events.
  • Collaborate with local food banks, nonprofits, and community organizations to advance the farm’s mission and promote agricultural education.
  • Support outreach programs and initiatives that engage community members in the farm’s work.
  1. Board Relations
  • Collaborate closely with the Board of Directors to support effective governance and organizational accountability.
  • Provide regular updates on farm operations, financial health, and progress toward strategic goals.
  • Assist with Board development, including recruitment, engagement, and strategic planning initiatives.

Basic Qualifications

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in nonprofit management or a related field.
  • Demonstrated success in fundraising, grant writing, and donor relations.
  • Strong financial management skills, including experience with budget development, monitoring, and reporting.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Proven experience managing diverse teams, including staff, volunteers, and community partners.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on and dynamic environment.
  • Strong understanding of sustainable farming practices and agricultural systems.
  • Deep passion for community-based agriculture, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.
  • Flexibility to work evenings and weekends for events, special projects, or farm-related emergencies as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Familiarity with local, state, and federal agricultural policies and regulations.
  • A Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, environmental science, business administration, nonprofit management, or related field.
  • Experience with farm work.
  • Experience with organic certification processes and compliance.
  • Spanish language proficiency and/or experience working with multilingual communities.
  • Existing connections within the San Diego County agricultural and/or nonprofit community.

Reasonable accommodations will be provided in accordance with ADA guidelines to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Compensation:

  • Salary Range: $75,000–$90,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position. For the right candidate, part-time arrangements may be considered.
  • This role is primarily in-person and not suitable for remote work; however, there is some flexibility in scheduling.

Benefits include:

  • Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays
  • Retirement plan
  • Ability to set your own schedule (outside of organization wide events)
  • Access to fresh, organic farm produce
  • Supportive, mission-driven work environment rooted in sustainability and community

How to Apply

To apply, please submit a resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience through the link in our website: barroncreekfarm.org/work.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

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