Executive Director

Texas Corn Producers
Lubbock, Texas

POSITION PURPOSE

The Executive Director provides day-to-day operational and strategic leadership for the Texas Corn Producers Board (TCPB) and Texas Corn Producers Association (TCPA), reporting to and working closely with their Boards of Directors. In partnership with Board Officers, the Executive Director sets objectives and tactics aligned with approved budgets and policies and leads staff to advance the mission of both organizations. The Executive Director must be located in the Lubbock, Texas area.

The Executive Director also serves as the Executive Administrator for the Texas Soybean Board (TSB) and Texas Soybean Association (TSA) so long as the annual contract continues with TSB and TSA.

This position requires work in government relations, public relations, program management, personnel administration, and fiscal management. The coordination of these activities is subject to the general direction of the Board of Directors. The employee should demonstrate a high level of integrity, confidence, and ability to conduct the functions of this position.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

Proven strategic and innovative leader with the ability to envision, align, and execute at a high level.
Communicate effectively with the officers/boards to maintain trust and successful working relationships.
Lead the development and implementation of strategic plans in conjunction with the Board of Directors.
Design and implement effective programs to significantly expand membership.
Develop and execute a leadership development program that builds a strong pipeline of future board members while strengthening advocacy efforts for Texas corn producers.
Recognize the strategic value and responsibility of officer/board member grower leader involvement and strong role in representing Texas Corn at events, meetings, and all levels of government.
Responsible for having a comprehensive view of the U.S. corn industry and the global economy, and develop recommendations and strategic plans for new initiatives, partnerships, technologies, and approaches aligned with the Boards’ philosophy and strategic direction.
Monitor and analyze emerging issues and changes within ongoing events and projects and keeps the officers/boards informed.
Ability to select, manage, mentor, motivate, and empower staff.
Create culture of continuous improvement, specifically with training opportunities for Board members and staff.
Support executive leadership of other organizations in Texas to build support for program activities.
Oversee TCPB in accordance with Chapter 41 of the Texas Ag Code, bylaws, and policies.
Work with fellow National Corn Grower Association state executives and seek collaboration with other state corn organizations.
Facilitate and participate in TCPA policy development.
Identify and facilitate strategic partnerships with the National Corn Growers Association, other cooperators, organizations, individuals, and entities to achieve the goals of the Boards.
Demonstrate ability to effectively meet, work, and negotiate with farmers and farm groups, trade associations, and business and government executives/representatives.
Experience and familiarity with agriculture and agricultural issues and policies and ability to relate to farmers on these issues.
Communicate effectively to individuals and groups through public speaking and strong writing skills.
Provide oversight and manage organizations within financial budget parameters.
Represent Texas Corn Producers at appropriate official functions.
Other functions as directed by the Board of Directors.

Education and/or Experience:

Bachelor’s degree or higher education preferred, but not mandatory.
Substantial experience in organization or association work in agriculture or a field closely related to agriculture.
Ten or more years of experience and working knowledge directly related to duties and responsibilities.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Knowledge of corn checkoff program and commitment to organizations’ bylaws.
Strong understanding of the agricultural industry, issues, and leadership.
Understanding of county, state, and federal legislative rulemaking process.
Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to produce effective communication materials.
Ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences and passionately advocate for industry and agriculture issues.
Proven ability to build consensus and trust.
Strong analytical, interpretive, evaluative, and constructive thinking skills.
Adaptability to changing priorities and organizational needs.
Strong project management skills and ability to effectively manage multiple projects and escalating priorities.
Professional demeanor with the ability to display sound judgment and diplomacy in dealing with target audiences, farmers, and employees.
Creative, energetic, and forward-thinking with high ethical standards.
Ability to explain financial data in general terms.
Ability to maintain a high degree of confidentiality.
Advanced computer skills (Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel). Aptitude for learning new applications as needed.

Position Requirements:

Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented office environment.
This is an in-office position and requires the Executive Director to be present in the Texas Corn office each workday. The Executive Director must reside in the Lubbock, Texas area.
Extensive overnight travel within Texas and out of state is required. The ability and willingness to travel internationally is preferred. Frequent travel to Washington, DC, and Austin should be expected.

Location:

Lubbock, Texas.

Apply

All inquiries and information will be handled in strict confidence. Interested parties should contact:

Laura Blomme

Hedlin Ag Enterprises

Phone: 515-444-7342 Email: lblomme@hedlinag.com