Strategic Program Manager

Our client is seeking an experienced program manager to lead planning and execution of a complex program focused on water conservation. This project was designed to demonstrate the power of combining in-field sensing with advanced modeling, forecasting, and machine learning to improve on-farm water use efficiency.

In this role, you will be responsible for setting up and managing public-private partnerships focused on climate-smart agriculture and regional conservation efforts. You’ll collaborate with government entities, grower-owned cooperatives, large farms, and research institutions. Your expertise in program management, cross-functional execution, and experience working with pivot-irrigated corn growers will be crucial in driving the overall success of this project.

Responsibilities:

• Establish and nurture strong relationships with partners and stakeholders. Leverage these relationships to facilitate collaboration, gather insights, and foster an environment of mutual benefit.
• Lead and oversee teams involved in technical development and operational execution, ensuring efficient collaboration and adherence to timelines.
• Develop and implement project plans, monitor progress, and proactively address issues and risks.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for the project team, maintaining open lines of communication, addressing concerns, and proactively identifying opportunities for collaboration and growth.
• Foster strong partnerships with other relevant stakeholders to further advance the program objectives.
• Contribute to the strategic planning process, leveraging your domain knowledge to identify new opportunities, potential challenges, and innovative approaches.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and refine program strategies.
• Monitor program and project progress, evaluate performance metrics, and provide regular updates to key stakeholders and the executive steering committee.
• Prepare comprehensive reports summarizing program and project accomplishments, challenges, and recommendations for continuous improvement.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in business, agriculture, or related field.
• 5-8 years of proven experience in program and project management.
• Experience leading agriculture, water conservation, or sustainability programs.
• Strong understanding of pivot irrigation or corn production.
• Excellent relationship management skills with the ability to build and maintain partnerships with stakeholders at various levels.
• Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey complex information effectively.
• Strong organizational and leadership abilities, with a track record of successfully managing cross-functional teams.
• If you are passionate about agriculture, thrive in a collaborative environment, and have a demonstrated ability to leverage relationships for program and project advancement, we encourage you to apply.

What we offer:

You will be joining a company of dedicated team players who bring together diverse expertise and a passion for building a more sustainable future. We are a fast-moving startup committed to providing a rewarding employee experience through the work we do, the team, compensation, and benefits, including:

• Excellent medical, dental, vision, and a 401k program
• Flexible PTO
• A focus on community involvement and career development
• Being a part of creating innovative new products that have a positive impact on the world

Please contact Tara, tara@producecareers.com