Executive Director & General Manager

Job Description

The Executive Director & General Manager (ED/GM) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for In Harmony Farm (IHF), ensuring that IHF’s mission, to equip up and coming farmers with access to land, education, and market opportunity, is fulfilled through strong systems, transparent governance, and sustainable growth.

This role integrates IHF’s core areas of Production & Education, Markets & Fundraising, and Operations & Governance, ensuring cohesive strategy, clear accountability, and alignment across programs, staff, and board priorities. The ED/GM fosters cross-functional collaboration, strengthens systems and performance, and represents IHF as a leader in regenerative agriculture, food equity, and small farm entrepreneurship.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Leadership & Vision
• Lead the implementation of IHF’s strategic plan across its core pillars: Producer Support & Program Development, Sustainable Growth & Innovation, Financial Sustainability & Strategic Partnerships, and Operational & Governance Excellence.
• Convene regular reviews to align priorities, assess progress toward strategic goals, and ensure coordinated execution across programs, markets, and operations.
• Translate vision and board goals into actionable annual plans with measurable outcomes.
• Serve as primary liaison to the Board of Directors, facilitating transparent communication, alignment, and informed decision-making.
• Represent IHF publicly as an advocate for local food systems, regenerative agriculture, and equitable access to land and markets.

Organizational Management & Integration
• Oversee daily operations and staff performance across the Grow, Pollinate, and Root Functions.
• Establish clear accountability structures, communication practices, and performance review processes.
• Ensure compliance with policies, regulations, and grant requirements.
• Support board committees through timely reporting and participation.
• Integrate people, partnerships, and finances to build system-driven operations.
• Oversee organization-wide data governance and performance review processes, ensuring program, market, and financial data are integrated into strategic planning, board reporting, and funding decisions.




Program Oversight & Farmer Success
• Guide the design and delivery of education, mentorship, and land access programs for beginning farmers.
• Ensure alignment between curriculum, mission, and measurable impact metrics (profitability, retention, and independence).
• Monitor program outcomes using data systems and continuous feedback loops.
• Strengthen community and partner relationships to enhance IHF’s role as a learning and collaboration hub.

Financial Stewardship & Sustainability
• Develop and manage the annual operating budget in collaboration with the Executive and Finance Committees.
• Oversee fiscal operations, grant management, and financial reporting with bookkeeping support.
• Build and maintain a diversified funding mix (approximately 50% grants, 30% private giving, 20% earned income).
• Oversee lease administration, farmer rent collection, and related agreements to ensure financial clarity, compliance, and alignment with program goals.
• Secure more funders, donors, and corporate partners using compelling data and storytelling.
• Support communications and fundraising efforts, including events and campaigns.

Community, Partnership, and Market Development
• Serve as a visible ambassador for IHF’s mission and programs, building authentic relationships with partners, funders and the community.
• Develop partnerships with food networks, conservation organizations, and educational institutions.
• Oversee market and co-branding initiatives that increase visibility and farmer revenue.
• Promote community events and agritourism that connect Iowans to local food systems.