The Agriculture Issue Leader is responsible for providing in-depth program leadership for the assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of the agriculture and horticulture program area of the association. In addition, this person shall develop and deliver programs in a specific subject of broad importance to the Agricultural program area including Agriculture Economic Development, Food Systems, Ag & the Environment (e.g. climate smart agriculture, carbon farming, water issues, etc. ) and Farmland Protection; and shall provide a broad range of high level administrative direction and management functions for programs and the staff within them. This person is responsible for securing program funds and effective management of resources available to the program unit. S/he is responsible for assuring that accountability and affirmative action requirements are met within the program unit and across the association. This person will engage with, develop and facilitate local community groups, networks, partnerships, and collaborations. S/he will engage public and private organizations to address high priority issues and maximize effective use of community resources to bolster community and economic development across the region. This person connects with other associations, Cornell faculty, and regional teams to develop collaborative projects and to conduct research related to Extension mission, priority programs and community issues. This person represents the association with the public, community leaders, government officials, and Cornell University in achieving the vision and mission of the association.
A full job description may be found here.