Organization Summary:

The Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP) has a 30-year history of pursuing cutting edge solutions that benefit family farmers, rural communities and the planet. Our work extends from advocating for more democratic and economically just trade agreements, to advocating for strong climate policy that supports family farmers, to spearheading Farm to Head Start programs. Connecting the dots has made IATP unique in that we match high-level research and analysis with on-the-ground engagement to bring policies to fruition. Our technical expertise and credibility within a variety of fields has enabled us to serve as a convener, collaborator, and trusted source for NGOs, policymakers and public agencies around the world. Our location in Minnesota is fortunate and strategic, as the deep tradition of civic engagement in this state has allowed us a laboratory to test innovative solutions that have been replicated around the country and world.

Our Mission: 

IATP works locally and globally at the intersection of policy and practice to ensure fair and sustainable food, farm and trade systems.

Our Vision: 

IATP envisions agriculture, trade and food systems that are good for people, farmers and food system workers, ecosystems and social justice globally. Growing these systems requires a long-term, sustained effort to build and mobilize public will, to invigorate and fortify political will and to effectively democratize power relationships.

Position Purpose: 

The Operations Manager manages the day-to-day operations and vendors that serve the infrastructure of IATP. Furthermore, the Operations Manager acts as a key thought partner for management, brainstorming and identifying solutions to organizational challenges and thus is expected to maintain the utmost confidentiality. The Operations Manager is expected to set an example for staff in maintaining a positive organizational culture and work to keep IATP a harmonious and productive work environment.

Responsibilities:

Support of IATP Executive Director

The Operations Manager works to organize and prioritize matters for the Executive Director to maximize the ED’s time and facilitate efficient decision-making. Provides internal and external communications support including drafting emails, memos, etc. Also, supports the ED administratively as necessary with regards to travel arrangements, etc.

Liaison to the Board of Directors

Serves as a primary staff contact for board members and provides administrative and substantive support to expedite and accomplish their objectives. This includes but is not limited to handling logistics for board communications and meetings, spearheading planning for annual in-person board meeting and staffing all board committees.

Finance and Human Resources

As a member of the Admin/Finance Team, the Operations Manager aids in establishing processes and efficiencies and lends the necessary support to maintain them. The Operations Manager also serves as the chief HR representative. This includes but is not limited to:

• Serving as the main liaison with benefit vendors and getting bids from insurance providers.
• Administering benefit plans and total compensation.
• Overseeing intern program: recruitment, orientation, oversight and documentation.
• Coordinating hiring, orientation and exit duties.
• Maintaining and ensuring compliance with personnel policy and regulatory requirements.
• Maintaining personnel files.
• Supporting finance as needed with credit card reconciliations, development reconciliations, etc.

Operations and Building Management

Manage day-to-day operations and vendors that serve the basic infrastructure of IATP, including:

• General office administration, maintain general organizational files, order supplies, etc.
• Provide oversight for security system, phone system, IT Consultant and other service providers.
• Oversee general contractors and bids for building and landscaping needs.
• Serve as point of contact for building-related matters and any tenants.
• Obtain, review and maintain adequate insurance policies and oversee any corresponding claims.
• Coordinate event planning and host IATP events as necessary.

Preferred Qualities and Qualifications:

• Commitment to the mission and staff of IATP
• 3 years of professional experience working in administration, finance, HR or another related field
• Knowledge of MS Office Suite and high level of comfort with a variety of digital tools and databases
• Profound sense of professionalism and stellar interpersonal skills
• High degree of accountability and ownership
• Well-organized and detail-oriented
• Passion for problem-solving and multitasking
• Abundance of resourcefulness

Benefits and Compensation

Compensation for this position is based upon qualifications and experience, with a starting range of $50,000-$60,000. IATP offers excellent health insurance, Health Savings Account (HSA), paid vacation and holidays, sick leave, 403B retirement plan with employer match, employer-paid life, AD&D and LTD insurance. Enjoy a lively, collegial, flexible and dog-friendly work environment. This position is located in the Minneapolis office.

How to Apply: 

Please combine your resume, cover letter and writing sample of no more than three pages into a single PDF and submit to jobs[at]iatp.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, but priority will be given to applications received by Sunday, December 15.

IATP is committed to the principle of equity. We actively encourage women, people of color and LGBTQ individuals to apply for this position and all positions at IATP.

IATP is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, military status or any other characteristic as established by law.