Feed Iowa First Overview

Established in 2011, Feed Iowa First addresses food insecurity in Linn County by growing produce for underserved communities. We focus on promoting health equity through improved food access, simultaneously reducing waste by sustainably growing produce on local land. Through partnerships, we distribute over 46,000 pounds of fresh produce to economically disadvantaged households and communities in need. Beyond alleviating immediate concerns, Feed Iowa First is dedicated to fostering equity and diversity in farming by facilitating the connection of emerging, underserved farmers to essential resources, land, equipment, and training within Iowa.

Executive Director Description

The Executive Director role is an exciting opportunity to lead a small but mighty nonprofit that directly addresses critical needs in the Cedar Rapids metro area. A passion for independent farms, healthy eating, and local economies is important, along with an understanding of the complex nature of food insecurity and sustainable agriculture, but past work experience in these areas is not considered necessary. A successful candidate will be the public face of our organization and must be a professional and effective communicator of insights, trends, and statistics. Networking within various scales will be part of the challenge of this role, and a successful candidate will understand how to work strategically with political leaders at various levels, along with customers, donors, staff, and volunteers. Community engagement and human interactions are a big part of what makes this career such a rewarding pursuit. An ability to analyze our operations and create repeatable, efficient processes is required. We need a candidate who can think strategically and critically, with an eye on both the current and future operational and financial needs of the organization. Overall, Feed Iowa First is seeking to continue our direction of stability and moderate financial growth with a focus on long-term sustainability so that we can implement our mission each year without compromising our viability. A proven record of excellent financial, operational, and staff management skills is required to achieve this.

Desired Qualifications

• A valid Driver’s License and a driving record sufficient to be insured as a driver under any insurance policy maintained by Feed Iowa First.
• A relevant higher education degree.
• A proven record of donor development and networking within various scales.
• Grant writing and fundraising experience for $500,000 annual budgets.
• Financial record keeping and annual external audit compliance.
• Experience with past capital campaign fundraising is helpful but not critical.
• Developing, charting, and monthly reporting on metrics and annual budgets.
• Intuitive file organization and management.
• High-level program management, including creating and implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Public speaking and public relations.
• Human resources and the management experience of 4 staff members.
• An ability to manage reliable and reasonable schedules for staff.
• An ability to maintain a positive, efficient, and constructive work environment.

Application Instructions

Interested candidates are invited to submit a resume, cover letter, and provide 3 references to satkinson@feediowa1st.com for consideration.

Feed Iowa First is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. All employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds and experiences to apply, as we believe in fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce that enhances our ability to serve our communities. Join our dedicated team at Feed Iowa First and make a meaningful impact in the fight against food insecurity in Iowa!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $73,000.00 - $82,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Cedar Rapids, IA 52401 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Cedar Rapids, IA 52401: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person