Agriculture Strategy Manger
The Agriculture Strategy Manager will lead The Nature Conservancy’s agricultural initiatives in the State of Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota working closely with the agriculture sector on issues related to water quality, wildlife habitat, soil health, air quality and climate change. The Manager will work closely with the Freshwater Program Director to define and implement the Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota Chapter’s agriculture strategy through high-level engagement with members of the agricultural sector. They will help to facilitate strategic alignment and integration by working with TNC’s conservation, science, government relations, marketing, North America Agriculture, Mississippi Basin Project and other teams that interact with agriculture sector stakeholders. As the Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota lead, the Manager will also help shape TNC’s regional and global strategy for agriculture. While in time the position will be active within all three states, the focus initially is in Minnesota. This position will be located in Minneapolis or other location in Minnesota to be determined.
Areas of Responsibility
Work with private and public-sector partners to understand and address the challenges of adopting conservation practices in agriculture, and build a shared vision and direction to advance sustainable agriculture practices across the State of Minnesota and beyond. Spearhead development of effective messaging and outreach to Minnesota farmers, agribusiness and other members of the agriculture sector to provide accurate and relevant information about conservation practices. Build innovative partnerships with farm service providers such as seed, chemical and fertilizer retailers, land improvement contractors, producer groups, crop consultants, farm managers, agricultural lenders, and non-profits interested in agriculture to develop programs and provide products and services that lead to improved water quality, soil health and agricultural sustainability. With TNC’s Government Relations team, influence and promote a strong state and federal agricultural and conservation policy. Cooperate with state and federal agency staff to target funds and administer programs with the aim of increasing participation and achieving high priority conservation outcomes. Represent TNC on work groups and at conferences and field days to convey the importance of soil health to water quality, greenhouse gas mitigation, and agricultural productivity. Act as TNC’s liaison to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and Agricultural Businesses. Function as the Minnesota lead for the 4R Nutrient Certification Program and the Soil Health Partnership.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Advance existing relationships with members of the agriculture sector, including producer groups and supply chain corporations, and develop partnerships to engage the sector to promote and increase the adoption of sustainable practices, including soil health and nutrient load reduction management.
- Facilitate and navigate external partnerships to scale up adoption of sustainable agriculture practices.
- In keeping with the outward nature of the role, work in partnership with producer groups, agribusinesses, agencies, academic institutions and other non-profits in a collaborative capacity.
- Position the Conservancy as a respected voice in Minnesota agriculture.
- Facilitate meetings, trainings, and outreach efforts.
- Design, implement and direct multiple complex projects, setting and meeting deadlines, and ensuring program accountability.
- Work closely with other programs throughout the Conservancy (including North America Agriculture) for synergy, ensuring that Minnesota’s efforts support and complement the broader goals of the organization.
- Establish ambitious and realistic goals for the program while controlling costs and administering budgets.