Executive Director

The Southern Sustainable Agriculture Working Group, commonly known as "Southern SAWG," is the region's non-profit leader in creating a sustainable food and farming system. Southern SAWG links more than 100 organizations and many unaffiliated individuals throughout the 13 southern states of AL, AR, GA, FL, KY, LA, MI, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX, and VA. Our programs and activities are aimed at educating, inspiring and empowering southern farmers, farmer support organizations, community food advocates, and others to participate as change agents in bringing about an agriculture and food system that is environmentally sound, economically viable, socially just and humane. 

Southern SAWG is seeking an individual to fill the position of Executive Director. The successful candidate will have a deep passion for our mission and the energy and experience to lead and manage a prominent and highly respected organization. This Executive Directorship will start as a time position, with the high priority goal of expanding the position to full time as soon as funding allows. 

Ideal candidates for this position will: 

> Provide visionary leadership to a 15-year old dynamic and growing organization in the sustainable agriculture movement.
> Have exceptionally strong relationship-building skills.
> Enjoy the complexity and rewards of leading a multi-faceted, regional organization covering a wide diversity of demographics and agro-ecosystems.
> Be an effective manager of a dedicated team that is comprised of diverse professional staff and contractors.
> Be able to effectively engage and work with the board of directors.
> Be capable of effective resource development for and sound fiscal management of diverse income streams
> Understand the relationship of local and regional efforts to effective systemic change in the farming and food system, particularly where resources are scarce.
> Be an excellent communicator dedicated to deep listening, transparency, and accountability for and within the organization.
> Be computer literate, with proficiency using Microsoft Office, internet and email.
> Be comfortable with a virtual and dynamic work environment that includes some travel. 

Southern SAWG operates a virtual office. All staff work from home or a local office. Southern residence is required; however, relocation is not necessary for the successful candidate already residing in the South. 

For a full description of the position and its responsibilities, please visit: http://www.ssawg.org/EDJobDescription.html 

To apply: 

Email resume, cover letter and salary requirements to

Southern SAWG Board President, Peggy Sechrist  or by mail: 

Peggy Sechrist,
106 Thunderbird Road,
Fredericksburg, TX 78624. 

Application deadline is December 31, 2005. Position start date is March 1, 2006 (or earlier).