JOB OPPORTUNITY

Position: Network Manager
Organization: BC Agricultural Climate Action Research Network
Location: Vancouver BC (This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement. Applicants must be located in BC and be at the UBC Vancouver campus periodically.)

Job Description Summary

The mission of the BC Agricultural Climate Action Research Network (BCACARN) is to foster collaboration among researchers, governments and producers in order to catalyze effective, research-backed solutions for BC food producers. The network is a dynamic and growing community of professionals and practitioners who are working to increase resiliency and reduce the impact of climate change on agriculture.

The BC ACARN Manager is responsible for leading a multi-institution network that delivers collaborative projects, events and communications. The role oversees planning and execution of projects and ensures deliverables are completed on time and on budget. The role requires leadership and facilitation with the ability to build partnerships across research institutions, government and industry.

Organizational Status
BC ACARN is governed by a Steering Committee composed of representatives from five partner universities in British Columbia as well as representatives from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food and the Investment Agriculture Foundation. BC ACARN administration and staffing are managed through the University of British Columbia. This position reports to the Chair of the steering committee and liaises with funding agencies, vendors and industry contacts. The position works closely with Centre for Sustainable Food Systems (CSFS), which provides administrative support. Provides guidance and support to the BC Food Web Coordinator.

Work Performed

• Identifies funding options, and drafts proposals for climate adaptation research and extension programs.
• Develops and delivers events including an annual conference and regional-level workshops to facilitate exchanges between producers and researchers.
• Oversees BC Food Web’s development of a suite of tools, products and trainings designed to help researchers share scientific outcomes effectively.
• Facilitates working groups to develop new projects and initiatives.
• Responsible for BCACARN communications strategy, including managing website development, overseeing social media platforms and producing a regular newsletter for members.
• Provides progress reports to the steering committee, stakeholders and funders.
• Develops project budget and provides financial reports.
• Manages contract and student staff to support the delivery of network projects.
• Maintains the engagement of institutional partners through steering committee membership and participation.
• Performs other duties as required.

Supervision Received
Reports to Steering Committee Chair, Sean Smukler, Associate Professor and Chair of Agriculture and Environment in the Faculty of Land and Food Systems at UBC. Works independently and exercises discretionary judgment and tact in running the programs to meet strategic goals. Receives direction and oversight from the Chair and Steering Committee members as necessary.

Supervision Given
Supervises the BC Food Web Coordinator and Climate Change & Environmental Research Assistant. Provides guidance to contractors and work learn students.

Minimum Qualifications
Undergraduate degree in a relevant field such as agriculture preferably with a background working with farmers in an extension (knowledge mobilization) capacity and in climate change adaptation. Minimum 2 years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Willingness to respect diverse perspectives, including perspectives in conflict with one’s own. Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing one’s own awareness, knowledge, and skills related to equity, diversity, and inclusion

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters degree is preferred.
• An understanding of the BC agriculture sector is highly desirable with experience in agricultural research and/or extension (knowledge sharing) activities.
• Strong writing and oral communication skills.
• Project management experience with experience managing collaborative projects or working with multi-stakeholder advisory/steering committees.
• Must have strong listening, written and verbal communication skills with experience in fostering effective communication within and among groups.
• Strong organizational skills - able to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, manage multiple projects and organize events.
• High accuracy and attention to detail is required.
• Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
• Computer experience at an intermediate level using word processing, spreadsheet, database and Internet applications and tools. Familiarity with website maintenance and social media tools.

Compensation Range

$5,209.17 - $7,485.33 CAD Monthly. This is a 1 year term appointment with the possibility of an extension.

The Compensation Range is the span between the minimum and maximum base salary for a position. The midpoint of the range is approximately halfway between the minimum and the maximum and represents an employee that possesses full job knowledge, qualifications and experience for the position. In the normal course, employees will be hired, transferred or promoted between the minimum and midpoint of the salary range for a job.

Posting End Date

May 6, 2024.

How to Apply

Please submit a resume and cover letter via the UBC Staff Careers portal.

Contact

Please email info@bcacarn.ca with any questions.

Please indicate you saw this posting at FoodWork.ca.