Director of Program Operations

Hiring Department

The Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center (RaFF) in the Division of Applied Social Sciences at the University of Missouri was launched in March 2022. We provide objective policy analysis and inform decision-makers on issues affecting farm and rural finances. To do this work, we produce farm income projections for states and regions that are consistent with each other. Cooperation with participating states brings local expertise to enhance model design and estimates. The resulting structural economic models can estimate the financial implications of weather events, proposed legislation, technological change and other shocks that make a difference in regional financial outcomes. Decision-makers then use our analysis as they form policies meant to support farm and rural economies throughout the U.S.

Role Description

The Program Director will provide day-to-day management of the Rural and Farm Finance Policy Analysis Center (RaFF), and develop and manage RaFF's communication strategy to secure national visibility of RaFF's outputs. RaFF collaborates with agricultural economists at multiple Land-Grant Institutions. The Program Director will provide continuity in communication and interaction with all team members, including strategic communication across all partner institutions. The position will help coordinate the activities under the RaFF umbrella and provide execution of objectives of the RaFF research and extension activities.

Minimum Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 5 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Agricultural Economics, Agricultural Communications, Agricultural Education, or equivalent.
• At least 10 years of professional experience in managing the development and online publication of reports, fact sheets, decision tools, and analyses of agricultural policy or closely related topics.
• At least 5 years of professional experience interacting with academic researchers, policy makers, and the general public.
• At least 2 years of experience in the Land Grant System or similar complex organization.

Apply here: https://erecruit.umsystem.edu/psp/tamext/COLUM/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&Action=U&SiteId=6&FOCUS=Applicant&SiteId=6&JobOpeningId=53579&PostingSeq=1