Innovation Manager

We're seeking a dynamic, forward-thinking individual to serve as the driving force behind community led solutions for food insecurity and food system resilience. As a FARMS Integrated Innovation Manager, you will advocate for and facilitate the implementation of local, community-driven projects that address food security challenges and food system resilience. Your role will bridge innovative technology with regional economic and workforce development, fostering equitable career opportunities and economic growth with the primary accountability of leading FARMS' efforts to establish itself as a pioneer in rural food security innovation. This role is responsible for developing and managing the thought leadership strategic objective, advancing FARMS' mission through educational programs, events, and partnerships that promote AgTech and equitable opportunities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Champion Technology Innovation: Lead initiatives that empower communities to drive food security projects using innovative, forward-thinking technology, ensuring these technologies align with local needs and aspirations.
• Program Development: Oversee the Emerging Technologist in Residence Program to foster cross-sector learning and AgTech expertise. Organize forums, summits, and thought leadership events to connect stakeholders and share best practices.
• Workforce Development Integration: Collaborate with regional stakeholders to design programs that foster long-term career growth within the local workforce, emphasizing equitable and sustainable opportunities.
• Economic Empowerment: Ensure that all projects are aligned with creating long-term, equitable economic opportunities for underserved communities, especially focusing on historically marginalized populations.
• Technology & Tradition Fusion: Facilitate the intersection of Indigenous knowledge systems with modern technological advancements, driving innovative solutions that are both respectful and forward-looking.
• Community-Centric Advocacy: Act as a proactive advocate for local voices, ensuring that the community's needs are always front and center in decision-making processes.
• Program Facilitation: Work with various stakeholders to develop, manage, and support the execution of local food security programs that integrate technology, economic growth, and workforce development.
• Content Creation: Develop and distribute white papers, case studies, and best practice guides that highlight FARMS' contributions to AgTech and community-driven food security. Coordinate with the communications team to publish materials across multiple channels.
• Research & Trend Analysis: In coordination with the Data Insights Manager, track industry trends, research, and innovations relevant to AgTech and rural food systems. Partner with research institutions to document and scale successful models for broader applications.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Public Policy, Community Development, or related field; master’s preferred.
• 5 years in program management, AgTech integration, or community-driven innovation. Proven experience working in community-based projects, ideally with Tribal Nations or rural communities.
• A deep understanding of food security challenges and the role innovative technology can play in solving them.
• Strong advocacy skills with a demonstrated commitment to equitable economic development and workforce initiatives.
• Knowledge of both traditional Indigenous agricultural practices and cutting-edge AgTech solutions is highly desirable.
• Strong skills in program design and stakeholder facilitation, particularly in community and cross sector partnerships.
• Demonstrated experience in data-driven content creation and storytelling within AgTech or community-focused programs.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a collaborative approach to stakeholder engagement.

Ideal Candidate: We’re looking for someone passionate about driving change at the intersection of technology, food security, and community empowerment. You should be excited about co-creating innovative solutions with local communities, and deeply committed to advancing equitable career and economic opportunities in underserved areas. Join us in redefining the future of food security, workforce development, and economic equity through community-driven, tech-powered innovation!