MSPA Seeking New Executive Director

NOW HIRING!

Position Title: Executive Director
Organization: Michigan Sheep Producer Association (MSPA)
Type: Part-time
Salary: Up to $9,500 plus expenses

Position Overview: The Executive Director serves as the primary management leader for the Michigan Sheep Producer Association. This role is pivotal in overseeing the administration, programs, and strategic initiatives of the organization. The Executive Director is responsible for communication, fostering partnerships with key organizations, outreach and education for sheep producers, and promoting the Michigan sheep industry. This position reports directly to the Board of Directors.

General Responsibilities:

  • Strategic Guidance and Implementation: Collaborate with the Board of Directors to guide, support, and implement the mission and vision of the organization. (40%)
    • Oversee and implement organizational operations, including preparing meeting agendas, communicating with board members and committee chairpeople about meetings, and facilitating all board meetings.
    • Communicate effectively with the board, ensuring timely and accurate information for proper functioning and decision-making.
    • Prepare the annual budget and work with the treasurer to ensure fiscal management and maximize resource utilization.
    • Encourage and promote growth in MSPA, increasing the organization’s visibility.
    • Support and assist with youth-oriented sheep-related activities.
    • Keep the board and membership informed of legislative and regulatory changes and developments.
    • Maintain relationships with industry partners including, but not limited to, American Sheep Industry, American Lamb Board, Michigan State University (MSU), MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, MSU Extension, Michigan Alliance for Animal Agriculture, Michigan Food Animal Communications Team, and Michigan Commodity Executives.
  • Communication and Public Relations: Serve as the primary spokesperson for MSPA to the membership, general public, associated organizations, governmental agencies, and media. (30%)
    • Oversee all forms of communication with association members.
    • Direct the development of a quarterly printed association newsletter and write an editorial for each issue, plus publish a monthly electronic newsletter.
    • Manage the website and all social media, including Facebook page and group.
    • Responsible for all news releases and media promotion.
  • Event Organization and Facilitation: Organize and facilitate the annual Shepherds Weekend Symposium and any additional organizational sheep programs. (30%)
    • Work with committee chairs to develop the agenda.
    • Manage logistics for location, registration, contests and guest speakers.
    • Oversee the recruitment and logistics for the vendor area and sponsorships.
    • Facilitate the banquet activities including a live auction, awards and other recognitions.
    • Collaborate with a host farm for an annual summer picnic for member engagement.

Key Skills and Qualities Desired:

  • Strong leadership skills and the ability to motivate others.
  • A sincere desire to promote the Michigan sheep industry from a broad/diversified perspective to represent members in commercial, purebred, and club lamb markets while also promoting the consumption of lamb and use of wool to all consumers. 
  • Effective communication skills in oral, written, and digital forms, including social media.
  • An understanding of and ability to discuss the diversity of the sheep industry.
Application