American Farmland Trust seeks Georgia Program Manager

American Farmland Trust is the only national organization that takes a holistic approach to agriculture, focusing on the land itself, the agricultural practices used on that land, and the farmers and ranchers who do the work. Since our founding in 1980, AFT has helped permanently protect over 6.5 million acres of agricultural lands, advanced environmentally-sound farming practices on millions of additional acres, and helped thousands of farm families make a go of it (primarily through programs that increase farm viability and/or enhance farmland access). Long a pioneering leader, AFT is now riding a new wave of growth, driven by agriculture’s most pressing needs and opportunities. 

We believe diversity drives innovation. We are inclusive. We embrace differences. We recognize and respect the fundamental value and dignity of all our employees. We celebrate the unique traditions, heritages, and experiences our employees bring to the workplace. We are committed to creating and sustaining an inclusive culture that promotes and values diversity, and where everyone feels empowered to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

We provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, expression or identity, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, American Farmland Trust complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which we have facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

What You’ll Be Working On

As an integral member of the AFT Programs team, the Georgia Program Manager will:

· Develop and implement projects in partnership with NRCS and other partners to protect farmland, encourage regenerative farming practices, and develop a new generation of farmers.

· Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with farmers and landowners, local, state and federal officials, leaders of agricultural, conservation, and community organizations, the press, and others.

· Represent AFT and foster effective relationships with public agencies, policy makers, land trusts, farm groups, community stakeholders, media, and donors at public meetings, conferences and other events.

· Conduct and oversee education and outreach about AFT's mission and programs.

· Work with AFT communications staff and others to create and distribute high-quality and compelling written products.

· Coordinate the participation of other AFT staff, consultants and outside partners in the effective and efficient achievement of program and project objectives.

· Work with other AFT staff to plan and implement Georgia-based events such as meetings, workshops, learning circles, and other events.

· Work with other AFT staff to identify funding needs and opportunities and develop funding proposals for initiatives and projects.

· Work with other staff to develop annual program and budget goals.

· Maintain records of work accomplishments for reports relative to all programs.

· Work other AFT staff to envision and implement a long-term strategy for AFT programs in Georgia.

The ideal candidate is entrepreneurial, well-organized, self-disciplined, and a capable problem-solver, who can work independently and has:

· Excellent written and verbal communications skills.

· A creative mindset in addressing challenges, creating programs, and building community solutions.

· Experience with agricultural conservation easements and Purchase of Agricultural Conservation Easement programs is strongly preferred.

· A commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice.

· Direct professional experience working with farmers, non-farming landowners, women, Black, Indigenous, People of Color, or other socially disadvantaged farmers, public officials, agricultural and conservation organizations, academic institutions, and/or land trusts is required.

· Experience managing complex or multiple projects, priorities, and finances under deadline is required.

· Experience with building networks and organizing training events for farmers, landowners, and agricultural professionals is preferred.

· The ability to think critically and strategically.

· Sound judgment, discretion, and ability to maintain confidentiality.

· Basic computer skills including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and remote meeting/presentation software as well as Microsoft 365 and Teams.

Education & Experience

· A Bachelor's degree and a minimum of five years of related work experience in agriculture, land or natural resources conservation, economic development, public policy, city or regional planning, or land conservation.

· Familiarity with the geography, economy, communities, and political landscape of Georgia.

· Experience working with several of the following constituencies: elected officials, farmers, land trusts, advocacy groups, nonprofit organizations, funders, or community-based organizations.

· Experience developing and executing projects from start to finish including program and partnership development, budget development, fundraising, implementation, and evaluation.

Why you should apply

• Be a part of a purpose-driven, committed, knowledgeable, high-performing, experienced and fun team
• A diverse and inclusive work environment
• A cause and mission you can be proud of
• Competitive compensation & Benefits
• Remote work opportunities
• Flexible scheduling

Apply Here