Organization

The Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture (NSFA) represents the interests of Nova Scotia's agricultural community. Today its members account for well over 90% of all agricultural production in Nova Scotia and brings together farm businesses representing all aspects of primary agriculture in the province. The NSFA tackles policy issues that impact the competitive and sustainable nature of the industry and takes an active role in supporting registered farms through the delivery of programs and services. The NSFA supports farms by providing tools, resources, best practices, and training while advocating on their behalf.

Position Overview

The NSFA is seeking a Program Manager (Environment and Climate Change) as a full-time employee supported by external funding. The Program Manager is responsible for developing, facilitating and managing industry-focused environmental programming.

Passionate about agriculture, sustainability, and climate resilience, the Environment and Climate Change Manager (ECCM) is a leader and strategic thinker who excels in developing innovative approaches to environmental challenges facing the farm community. The ECCM will proactively identify opportunities to support farms in adopting sustainable practices, enhancing climate adaptation, and building environmental stewardship across the sector.

With strong leadership and collaboration skills, the ECCM will guide and support a dynamic team of five, including oversight of initiatives such as the Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) and Living Labs - NS. They will foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and knowledge-sharing, ensuring programming remains responsive to emerging issues and opportunities. Building and maintaining a robust network of partners - including farmers, commodity groups, researchers, and government - the ECCM will enhance coordination and collaboration in environment and climate change efforts, ensuring meaningful engagement with members and stakeholders

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the environment and climate change staff in alignment with the organization's strategic plan
• Contribute to the leadership team of the NSFA
• Engage with members to understand their environment and climate needs to inform programming
• Foster partnerships with stakeholders including commodity groups, Perennia, post-secondary institutions, and government bodies to identify collaboration and program opportunities
• Lead the Agriculture Climate Solutions Living Lab Consortium in Nova Scotia, working with partners and stakeholders to gather information, conduct on-farm research, analyze results, and implement the Living Lab initiative in Nova Scotia.
• Provide leadership to the Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) team, ensuring the program remains relevant, effective, and responsive to the evolving needs of the farm community.
• Contribute to committees on behalf of NSFA in the areas of environment and climate change
• Identify synergies among various environmental initiatives to ensure effective and efficient delivery of supports and services to the farm community
• Manage and oversee the development, delivery and evaluation of workshops and educational events for the farm community
• Manage and oversee the development, delivery and evaluation of tools, resources, and best management

Program Manager

• Deliver presentations and contribute articles to internal and external publication
• Represent NSFA at industry events, committees, and tradeshows to expand organizational presence
• Manage and oversee funding applications, industry contributions, and reporting frameworks for programs
• Manage program budgets and expenditures
• Prepare comprehensive reports for funders, staff, Council and committees, highlighting program impacts and outcomes

Skills & Qualifications

• Degree in Agriculture, Environmental Science, or equivalent
• 3 - 5 years of proven experience in leadership, stakeholder engagement, and program management
• Strong understanding of environment and climate change science and initiatives
• Knowledge of Nova Scotia agriculture is an asset
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively across diverse stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, funding applications, and project timelines
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion principles in program development and community engagement
• Ability to travel and represent the organization at national and regional events
• A Nova Scotia driver's license and access to a vehicle are required

Compensation

• Starting annual salary between $71,000 - $78,000
• 3 weeks of vacation annually
• Employer-paid health and dental benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Short-term and long-term disability plan
• 8% RRSP match following one year of employment
• Hybrid work option pending position requirements

The NSFA prides itself in providing an enthusiastic work environment and is a tight-knit, supportive group encouraging collaboration and sharing of ideas. The NSFA strives to provide meaningful experience through career development and team-building activities.

Applications

Email resume and cover letter to [email protected] quoting "Program Manager- ECC" in the subject line by May 19th, 2025.