Food Program Director

Job Title: Food Pillar Director

Location: FACCES (The Family Adolescent & Child Community Engagement Service)

Position Type: Full-Time

Overview: FACCES is seeking a dynamic and highly organized Food Pillar Director to oversee and manage our Urban Garden, Kitchen, and Fresh Market programs. In this leadership role, you will be responsible for ensuring the smooth operation, growth, and sustainability of these essential programs. You will supervise a dedicated team, including youth, staff, vounteers and families participating in our programs, collaborate with other departments, and create strong relationships with the community and external organizations. The ideal candidate will possess excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills, as well as experience in program management, community engagement, and food systems.

Key Responsibilities Include:

Program Leadership & Management:

• Oversee and manage the Urban Garden, Kitchen, and Fresh Market programs, ensuring they meet FACCES' mission and community objectives.

• Develop, implement, and monitor strategic goals and operational plans for the food pillar, with a focus on sustainability, community impact, and food justice.

• Supervise and mentor a diverse team, including staff, youth, volunteers and families participating in food-related programs, providing guidance and leadership to ensure success.

• Collaborate with other pillars within FACCES to support organizational goals and assist in their respective programs and events.

• Develop and maintain strong partnerships with external organizations, local businesses, and community stakeholders to enhance the impact of the food pillar.

Fundraising & Resource Development:

• Seek funding for food-related programs through grants, donations, and partnerships.

• Prepare proposals, applications, and reports to secure resources for the Urban Garden, Kitchen, Fresh Market, and other related initiatives.

• Manage budgets for food programs, ensuring efficient use of resources and aligning with funding restrictions and organizational priorities.

Event Planning & Coordination:

• Plan, lead, and execute events on a weekly basis, including cooking classes, community meals, fundraisers, and seasonal markets.

• Create event menus, guides, and logistical plans, ensuring the successful execution of food-related events from start to finish.

• Cook for events and oversee meal preparation, ensuring high-quality, nutritious meals are provided.

• Coordinate volunteer involvement, reaching out to community members and organizations to secure volunteers for events and programs.

• Pick up materials and supplies for events and programs, ensuring everything needed is ready and on hand.

Team Management & Organizational Oversight:

• Lead team meetings, create agendas, and take minutes for board and committee meetings.

• Delegate tasks and ensure effective communication across all levels of the team, ensuring the smooth operation of daily tasks and long-term goals.

• Monitor and track inventory for all food programs, keeping accurate records of supplies and materials, and purchasing items as needed.

• Ensure the cleanliness and safety of the entire building, including all kitchen and garden areas, and secure the building at the end of each day.

• Lead monthly Food Pillar Committee meetings, engaging stakeholders and ensuring consistent progress and alignment with FACCES' goals.

Community Engagement & Marketing:

• Create strong relationships with the local community, businesses, and other organizations through networking, outreach, and collaboration.

• Assist with marketing and social media efforts to promote food programs, events, and the impact of the Food Pillar within the community.

• Maintain strong communication with program participants, local partners, and the broader community to engage them in food programs and initiatives.

Data Collection & Reporting:

• Collect and maintain accurate data related to food programs, including participation, inventory, and outcomes.

• Prepare reports for grant submissions, funders, and other stakeholders, demonstrating the impact of food programs and ensuring compliance with funding requirements.

• Regularly assess and report on the effectiveness of the Food Pillar programs and look for continuous improvement opportunities.

Administrative & General Responsibilities:

• Attend meetings and events outside of FACCES to represent the organization and create community partnerships.

• Support the overall operations of FACCES by participating in cross-functional projects and collaborating with other teams as needed.

• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations in all kitchen and food-related areas.

• Contribute to the development of policies, procedures, and best practices for food programs and staff.

Qualifications & Experience:

Leadership & Team Management:

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in a leadership role, preferably in food service, community programs, or nonprofit management.

• Proven experience in supervising and mentoring staff, youth, volunteers and families participating in food-related programs, with the ability to motivate and develop a team.

• Experience in creating and leading meetings, including agendas, taking minutes, and ensuring follow-through on action items.

Food Program & Event Management:

• Strong background in program management with a focus on food-related initiatives, community engagement, and event planning.

• Extensive experience in cooking and menu planning, including for large groups and events.

• Proven ability to coordinate and execute events, including community meals, workshops, and fundraising activities.

Fundraising & Resource Development:

• Experience in fundraising and grant writing, with a track record of securing funding for food and community programs.

• Ability to manage budgets, allocate resources effectively, and ensure the financial sustainability of food programs.

Community Engagement & Partnerships:

• Strong skills in community outreach and building partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and community members.

• Excellent networking skills, with a demonstrated ability to engage diverse stakeholders and drive collaboration.

Organizational & Administrative Skills:

• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and stay focused in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong attention to detail and experience with data collection, tracking, and reporting.

• Experience with inventory management and purchasing supplies for food programs.

Food Safety & Kitchen Management:

• ServSafe Certification or equivalent food safety certification (or willingness to obtain within the first 60 days).

• Knowledge of food safety regulations and experience ensuring compliance in all food-related operations.

Communication & Marketing:

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage the community, staff, and external partners effectively.

• Experience with social media and marketing strategies to promote food programs and events.

Flexibility & Adaptability:

• Ability to adapt to changing needs and priorities in a fast-paced, community-focused organization.

• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet the needs of programs and events.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bilingual (Spanish/English) is a plus for effective community engagement.

• Experience in urban agriculture or food systems, with a particular focus on community gardens and local food production.

• Knowledge of nutrition and experience designing programs that promote healthy eating and food security.