New Job Posting: Community Enterprise Manager

Community Enterprise Manager

Location: Sault Ste. Marie, ON

Reports To: Director of RAIN (Rural Agri-Innovation Network)

Position Type: Full-Time

Job Overview: 

Harvest Algoma is seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to join our team as the Community Enterprise Manager. This role primarily focuses on developing a sustainable social enterprise that offers affordable meals to seniors and other community members, while also enhancing community engagement through group ordering initiatives. The role may advance to include other entrepreneurial innovations that support the goals of the social enterprise. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in finance, marketing, sales, and community collaboration, along with excellent facilitation and conflict management skills. This individual will work closely with Harvest Algoma staff, and will manage complex relationships with funders and organizations.

Key Responsibilities: 

Social Enterprise Development

• Lead the planning and implementation of the social enterprise initiative.
• Current main initiative: selling packaged meals to seniors and other target groups.
• Conduct market analysis to identify customer needs and preferences.
• Develop marketing and sales strategies to promote and sell meals.
• Keep on top of costs by supporting initiatives to increase productivity and lower costs.
• Monitor sales performance and adjust strategies as needed to achieve business goals.
• Support research and development of future social enterprise initiatives under the direction of the Director of RAIN.

Community Engagement and Group Ordering

• Work with community organizations and other potential outlets to facilitate group ordering of food products.
• Foster partnerships with local agencies, stakeholders, and regional and provincial supply chain sources to support collaborative food procurement efforts.
• Facilitate meetings and workshops to engage community partners effectively.
• Give strategic guidance to staff on educational and outreach activities to promote Harvest Algoma’s mission and services.

Finance and Cash Flow Management

• Prepare and manage budgets related to social enterprise and community engagement activities.
• Track expenses and revenues to ensure financial sustainability.
• Prepare financial reports and provide regular updates to the Director of RAIN and the advisory committee, in collaboration with the SSMIC Finance Dept. to develop a reporting template.

Collaboration with Harvest Algoma staff 

• Collaborate with the Operations Coordinator on food procurement strategies and logistics.
• Ensure that the social enterprise has a consistent supply of quality food and packaging for meal preparation in coordination with the Operations Coordinator and Head Cook.
• Collaborate with the Program Coordinator & Greenhouse Manager on production planning and social media marketing for the social enterprise and community partnerships.

Relationship Management 

• Manage complex relationships with funders, partners, and other key stakeholders.
• Handle conflicts and facilitate negotiations to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.
• Maintain effective communication and foster strong relationships with community organizations and funders.

Administrative and Reporting Duties:

• Maintain accurate records of social enterprise sales, inventory, and community engagement activities.
• Prepare reports on program activities and outcomes for internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and organizational policies.

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Community Economic Development, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in social enterprise development, marketing, sales, or a similar role.
• Proven experience in developing and managing community-focused business ventures.
• Strong understanding of finance and cash flow management.
• Excellent marketing and sales skills with a track record of achieving sales targets.
• Outstanding facilitation and conflict management skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to manage complex relationships with funders and organizations.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to food security and community development.
• Experience in the agri-food sector is highly desirable.

Benefits: 

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Salary commensurate with experience.
• Flexible work hours.
• Opportunity to make a significant impact on food security and community well-being.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Professional development and growth opportunities.
• Some regional travel will be required.

How To Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three references to careers@ssmic.com by June 21st, 2024.

In your cover letter, please highlight how your experience and qualifications align with the role’s objectives and requirements. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Notice to Applicants: Confidentiality assured. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

The Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre values diversity and is committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. Please notify us of any accommodations needed to ensure fair and accessible participation.