Program Manager - Victory Garden Initiative (Milwaukee, WI)

Program Manager Position Open

(Also known as the Get-Growing Job - no need to wait for the food system to change - make it happen yourself.)

Victory Garden Initiative is a non-profit organization that builds communities who grow their own food, creating an ecologically sustainable, socially just and nutritious food system.

We are a small, dynamic and rapidly growing organization seeking the right set of people to take the organization from a local Milwaukee-based organization to a regional organization. This is an exciting time to get involved in the creation a local, sustainable, nutritious, socially just food system for all, by working with a leading Milwaukee food organizations.

Job Posting:  Program and Operations Manager, Full-time benefited position with competitive salary

Description: The Program and Operations Manager is responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating high quality programming for Victory Garden Initiative, bringing the organization’s mission and vision to fruition. The Program Manager works with other program staff to ensure all programs meet their goals and contribute to Victory Garden Initiative’s excellent reputation in the community.

Reports To: Executive Director

Essential Duties:

Program Management:

• Manages program budgets, writes grants, manages relevant grant reporting
• Responsible for program evaluation
• Participates in strategic planning and program development
• Sets program timelines and tracks progress of all programs and projects; reports monthly to the Board of Directors
• Maintains schedule of all classes and events
• Coordinates programs in conjunction with community members and committees and other staff members

Outreach:

• Develops outreach strategy and works with marketing staff and volunteers to market programs
• Trains volunteers and staff to conduct effective outreach

• Speaks on behalf of VGI to community groups, classrooms, etc
• Develops partnerships with community organizations and government agencies

Volunteers:

• Recruits new volunteers and ensures good volunteer experience
• Develops and implements volunteer training procedures

Characteristics:

• Ability to multi-task
• Attention to detail, well organized
• Excellent time management skills
• Nimble and flexible; adaptable to fast-changing work environment
• Comfortable meeting new people and developing relationships
• Excellent work ethic; ability to work evenings and weekends as needed
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to problem-solve and work independently, as well as be part of a team
• Infectious enthusiasm for Victory Garden Initiative’s mission

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Passion for social change, specifically with the food system
• Experience with gardening, cooking, and permaculture
• Ability to lift 50 pounds
• Valid drivers license and ability to drive a truck
• Experience working with diverse populations

To apply, send your cover letter, resume and three references to gretchen.mead@victorygardeninitiative.org by April 5th.