Press Releases

Field to Market Seeks Communications and Membership Director

June 18, 2014

Field to Market, The Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture® seeks a Communications and Membership Director based in its office in Washington, DC. Field to Market is a 501(c)(3) organization that brings together a diverse alliance of grower groups; agribusiness companies; food, fiber, restaurant and retail companies; conservation groups; universities and agency partners to focus on promoting, defining and measuring the sustainability of row crops for food, fiber and fuel production.

Position Summary

The Communications and Membership Director is responsible for managing internal and external communications, including serving as the primary point of contact at Field to Market for representatives of the media. The position will also include directing the organization’s online communications strategies, including website and social media management. Lastly, the position will include conference and meeting management responsibilities, as well as maintaining current membership and committee rosters for internal communication purposes.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background and understanding of the issues impacting the food and agriculture sector; demonstrated experience and knowledge of communication trends, tools, and strategies to effectively communicate with Field to Market members and key external audiences; strong communication and interpersonal skills; an ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines; and a desire and enthusiasm for continuous learning and professional development.

The position reports to the president of Field to Market.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Develop a proactive media relations program by identifying and cultivating reporters and editors to effectively position Field to Market as the leading agricultural sustainability organization in the United States.
  • Pitch and place stories that promote Field to Market’s role in measuring, defining and promoting sustainable outcomes in agriculture.
  • Draft press releases and coordinate/respond to media inquiries.
  • Prepare timely oral and written reports on communications impacts (e.g., media impressions).
  • Exercise editorial management of Field to Market’s website and social media platforms.
  • Oversee and direct the work of outside vendors (e.g., public relations agencies) to meet project needs.
  • Manage internal communications with Field to Market membership, including maintaining committee and work group contact lists.
  • Oversee the activities of Field to Market’s Communications and Outreach Committee, which includes coordinating messages and strategies with the communications staff of our member companies and organizations.
  • Support Field to Market’s twice-yearly plenary meetings and various work group meetings, including basic meeting/conference planning activities.
  • Prepare and make presentations on behalf of Field to Market at relevant conferences and events throughout the year.

Minimum Requirements

  • A Bachelor’s degree in agriculture journalism, journalism, communications, public relations or related field.
  • A minimum of 3-5 years of proven experience in journalism, agribusiness, communications management or in fields related to agricultural sustainability and food/fiber supply chains.
  • Excellent communication skills (writing/editing, speaking, facilitating). A writing sample may be requested.
  • Successful experience in working with a membership-driven organization preferred.
  • Ability to prioritize, establish and meet deadlines and handle multiple priorities.
  • Ability to work effectively and as a team in a small office environment.
  • Must have strong command of the English language.
  • Travel required for this position is extensive. At times travel may be expected on short notice. Travel and other work related assignments may include weekends.

To Apply

Please submit a cover letter that explains your interest in the position and a resume to bbrumbaugh@keystone.orgno later than June 30, 2014. Salary is commensurate with experience. Health insurance and other benefits included.

ABOUT FIELD TO MARKET

Field to Market: The Alliance for Sustainable Agriculture® brings together a diverse group of grower organizations; agribusinesses; food, feed, beverage, restaurant, and retail companies; conservation groups; universities and public sector partners to focus on defining, measuring, and advancing the sustainability of food, feed, fiber, and fuel production. Field to Market comprises around 200 members representing all facets of the U.S. agricultural supply chain, with members employing more than 5 million people and representing combined revenues totaling over $1.5 trillion. 

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