Director of Communications & Industry Engagement

Application Process

For more information or to apply submit letter of application and resume by, Friday, Aug. 23:

Tadd Nicholson

Ohio Corn & Wheat

59 Greif Parkway, Suite 101

Delaware, OH 43015

Tnicholson@ohiocornandwheat.org

Director of Communications & Industry Engagement

Position Summary

Ohio Corn & Wheat is seeking highly qualified, confident candidates who demonstrate experience as a spokesperson and substantial management experience for the Director of Communications & Industry Engagement. This position will lead all outward facing messaging of Ohio Corn & Wheat, develop marketing & communication strategies, manage our relationship with a PR firm, oversee the Manager of Communications and ensure that information released is consistent with the Ohio Corn & Wheat brand. This position reports directly to the Executive Director and is a member of the leadership team who sets the vision, strategy, and implements our goals for the betterment of Ohio’s corn and wheat industries.

About Ohio Corn & Wheat

Ohio Corn & Wheat is a strategic alliance that houses three separate and unique organizations: the Ohio Corn Checkoff, the Ohio Small Grains Checkoff, and the Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association. We work on behalf of Ohio’s corn and small grain farmers to secure a sustainable future.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop a cohesive communication strategy
• Ensuring quality control of all information released
• Projecting a positive company image to the public
• Managing a communication budget
• Overseeing the manager of communication and contractors
• Crisis management and preemptive planning

What You’ll Do

• Lead strategy for grower communications about checkoff and association work
• Develop key messages for current issues in conjunction with national organization partners
• Serve as spokesperson for organization at grower events and with media
• Work collaboratively with the manager of communications to plan editorial calendar and ensure content is aligned with brand identity and strategic plan
• Manage consumer campaign projects led by OCW and/or industry partners
• Build campaigns to recruit and retain Association members
• Forge relationships with association sponsors
• Plan the organization’s annual Celebration, annual meeting, Farm Science Review presence, and other events for members

Critical Components for Success

·       18-10 years of experience preferably in agricultural communication, marketing, communication, or public relations.

·       Strong written, verbal communication, and presentation skills

·       Strong customer-centered relationship skills

·       Ability to present and defend point-of-view constructively and persuasively with stakeholders

·       Background and/or experience with Midwest grain production and how to connect with corn and wheat growers

·       Excellent oral communication skills both in small groups and in front of larger audiences

·       Demonstrated ability to develop successful marketing campaigns

·       Strong time and project management skills

• Fast-paced environment with multiple competing priorities
• Enjoys forging new relationships

Role Execution and Compensation

• This position is a full-time, salaried position requiring 40+ hours a week. These hours will vary according to events, travel, and responsibilities to the association and checkoff boards. Occasional weekends and some travel are required.
• This position is primarily based in Ohio Corn & Wheat’s office in Delaware, Ohio, with some work being executed remotely.
• Compensation package includes competitive pay, dynamic work environment, retirement plan with options, insurance plan, and paid time off.