Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Assistant Professor in Sustainable Food Systems


There is a new Faculty Position open at Montana State University - they are seeking an
Assistant Professor in Sustainable Food Systems.
The vacancy announcement for the  position is posted on the MSU web site at http://www.montana.edu/jobs/faculty/13115-2.

Screening begins January 15, 2013.

Thursday, November 1, 2012

2013 Legal Fellowship, Center for Food Safety

The Center for Food Safety (CFS), a leading public interest organization devoted to legal advocacy in food law and sustainable agriculture, is seeking applications for its 2013 Legal Fellowship Program.  CFS’s mission centers on protecting consumers, the environment, and farmers by challenging the impacts of harmful food production systems.  CFS also works to strengthen food and environmental laws and enforcement at both federal and state levels, in part by promoting and protecting organic standards.  This program provides an opportunity for a recent law school graduate interested in both litigation and policy work to become familiar with this new and growing practice area.

As a member of the legal team, the Legal Fellow will work on cutting edge issues, among them: genetic engineering, factory farming, food labeling, organic standards, global warming, sewage sludge, aquaculture, irradiation, nanotechnology, and state and federal legislative initiatives.  The Legal Fellow will work alongside the legal team on litigation in cases in federal and state courts, including case investigation, discovery, trial practice, and appellate work.  Other duties will include, but are not limited to, rule-making and administrative work at the state and federal level, as well as work on general legislative, public policy, and public education issues.

The fellowship is awarded through a competitive selection process.  It is a paid one-year appointment, commencing in the summer / fall of 2013, and it is open to law students who graduated / or will graduate in the years 2013, 2012, or 2011, and those completing legal clerkships.  The Legal Fellow is based out of the San Francisco or Portland office.

Qualifications:
  • an interest in and experience with administrative and environmental law or another relevant area;
  • a demonstrable passion for enforcing and strengthening environmental laws, as well as an interest in sustainable agriculture and / or food law;
  • excellent legal research and writing skills;
  • self-motivation and willingness to do administrative tasks;
  • an ability to work closely with others in small, team-oriented office environment; and
  • timely admission to the California, Oregon, or Washington bar.
To apply: Please send a cover letter, resume, three references (two may be from law school, one must be a legal employment supervisor), and a non-academic writing sample to Ryan Crumley at rcrumley@centerforfoodsafety.org. Preference will be given to candidates who demonstrate a dedication to and interest in environmental law, sustainable agriculture, and litigation of the type undertaken by the Center for Food Safety.

The fellowship deadline is December 31, 2012.

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Assistant Director, Global Agriculture & Food, Chicago Council on Global Affairs

The Chicago Council on Global Affairs, founded in 1922, is a leading independent, nonpartisan organization committed to influencing the discourse on global issues through contributions to opinion and policy formation, leadership dialogue, and public learning. As neither an advocacy organization nor a sector‐specific actor, it is able to bring together stakeholders from different sectors and serve as an honest broker able to sort through and synthesize diverse viewpoints. Its analyses and policy recommendations have had direct impact on federal policymaking and in shaping public opinion.

The Chicago Council’s portfolio on Global Agriculture and Food includes a suite of projects focusing on the U.S. government role in global agricultural development in Africa and South Asia; U.S. domestic agriculture policy; the role of girls in rural development; and the nexus between agriculture and health. Please see below for a list of current projects.

The Chicago Council is seeking an Assistant Director to support its Global Agriculture and Food portfolio. The primarily responsibilities of the Assistant Director are to manage the production and dissemination of the portfolio’s intellectual products, including reports, white papers, and commentaries. As part of this responsibility, the Assistant Director will also work closely with the Executive Director, Global Agriculture and Food to engage the Global Agricultural Development Initiative Advisory Group and manage other operational components of the Initiative.

RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
  • Work closely with the Executive Director in providing operational management to the Global Agricultural Development Initiative including, but not limited to, budget management, creating and overseeing work plans, and representing the Initiative to external funders and stakeholders
  • Design and manage the study, publication, and dissemination processes for Global Agricultural Development Initiative policy papers, issue briefs, and other studies
  • Assist with Global Agricultural Development Initiative events including meetings of the Initiative’s advisory group, consultations with senior policymakers and experts, working group sessions, etc.
  • Draft correspondences, project marketing materials, and opeds/articles as needed or upon request
  • Supervise support staff and interns as assigned
  • Provide support at Council events approximately 3 - 4 times monthly (registration, ushering, etc.), requiring some evening and early morning hours;
  • Perform other projects as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
  • A master’s degree with a focus on international affairs or related field of study and at least five years of experience in the policy arena, preferably experience working in the foreign, development, and/or agriculture policy realms
  • Demonstrated ability to work closely with others to effectively manage and carry out various portions of complex projects with multiple activity streams being realized under tight timelines with minimal supervision
  • Excellent management and organizational skills, strong attention to detail, desire and ability to take initiative and work independently, and professional maturity
  • Demonstrated experience in event planning for delegation trips, meetings, and conferences involving senior individuals (domestic and foreign dignitaries, CEOs, senior policymakers, Member of Congress, etc.)
  • Superior verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex concepts and topics clearly, thoroughly, and succinctly, and support decision making in consensus-based processes
  • Strong writing and editorial skills, preferably experience with policy-relevant writing
  • Desire and ability to work effectively and efficiently in a fast-paced, dynamic, and demanding environment; flexible schedule in working late evenings/early mornings on occasion
  • Innovative problem-solver and a proactive spirit.

TO APPLY
Please e-mail a cover letter and résumé as Word documents to hr@thechicagocouncil.org
EOE

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Agricultural Program Supervisor, Wisconsin Dept. of Ag, Trade, & Consumer Protection

This position leads strategic planning and sets overall direction and policies for the Market Wisconsin programs related to increasing the sale of Wisconsin grown or produced agricultural products within local and regional markets.  This position oversees and directs program planning, development, and implementation of Market Wisconsin programs, including setting program goals and objectives, strategies and measuring results.   At the Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection our mission and vision is to make Wisconsin a world leader in agriculture, food safety, and consumer protection.  At our headquarters, perched on the Southeast side of Madison overlooking the city, employees enjoy plentiful, low-cost parking, and easy access to major highways.

Job Duties:   This position leads strategic planning and sets overall direction and policies for the Market Wisconsin programs related to increasing the sale of Wisconsin grown or produced agricultural products within local and regional markets. Oversees and directs program planning, development, and implementation of Market Wisconsin programs, including setting program goals and objectives, strategies and measuring results. This position makes recommendations for the enactment of legislation or initiatives related to economic development priorities issued through the Governor's and Secretary's offices which includes implementing the 2009 Wisconsin Act 293 Farm to School Program.  To see the position description please click here.

Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:  
  • Thorough knowledge of supervisory and personnel management practices (e.g., hiring, discipline, grievance, performance evalations, training, etc.); this includes strong leadership and team building skills.
  • Extensive knowledge and skills related to local food market development efforts gained through direct work with such programs as: Farm to School, farmers markets, community supported agriculture, food production, food procurement, and/or food distribution, etc.
  • Strong leadership and people management skills including experience in performance evaluation, team building and motivating.
  • Knowledge of economic developement and/or marketing strategies, including the ability to identify target markets, develop market entry strategies and identify investment opportunities in the state.

Applicaions due on or before October 29, 2012.

Chief of Party, ACDI/VOCA (Agricultural Cooperative Development International


ACDI/VOCA is currently seeking a Chief of Party for a multi-year program in Liberia.  The overall goal of the project is to reduce chronic food insecurity and vulnerability of individuals, households and communities to food security shocks. ACDI/VOCA will work with smallholders to build a solid foundation at the household level in order to increase food security, build resilience and expand economic opportunities. Interventions will introduce environmentally sustainable agricultural production practices, improve post-harvest practices, integrate cash crops into the smallholder production system, increase access to savings and credit and train households in business skills. The project will also focus on improving health and nutrition in vulnerable communities with a focus on children two years old and under and women who are pregnant or lactating through an integrated approach.
Responsibilities:
  • Under the general supervision of the Senior Managing Director, Food Security, the Chief of Party (COP) will assume responsibility for overall program management of the P.L. 480 Title II program, and will provide leadership, oversight, and support to all aspects of the program including, but not limited to, monetization and commodity management, improving livelihoods of beneficiaries, and promoting improved health and nutrition as well as emergency response.
  • The COP will have overall responsibility for staffing as well as sub-recipient activities in addition to ensuring the program is in compliance with donor regulations and ACDI/VOCA policies and procedures.
  • Cultivate and liaise with program partners, Liberian governmental agencies and USAID offices in Liberia and Washington DC, and promote the acceptance of the Liberia Title II program and assure its smooth functioning, by establishing and maintaining positive relationships with the USAID Mission, local NGOs, the private sector, and other governmental and non?governmental agencies and organizations, specifically other Title II Cooperating Sponsors.
  • Ensure that staff members complete Recipient Agency Agreements (RAAs) and contracts with other organizations as needed and ensure compliance with both donor regulations and ACDI/VOCA policies.
  • Ensure that project partners are implementing project activities in accordance with ACDI/VOCA’s agreement with USAID.
  • Ensure effective finance, progress, and donor reports, compliance with donor and ACDI/VOCA regulations, and efficient utilization of program staff and resources.
  • Ensure compliance among key staff with all corporate and local ACDI/VOCA policies and procedures, ensuring appropriate policies and procedures are in place and understandable by staff including, but not limited to, Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual, translations of ACDI/VOCA corporate policies and clear and transparent accounting and management procedures.
  • Monitor budget, fund disbursal, and financial records ensuring that project expenditures are in compliance with ACDI/VOCA and USAID policies and regulations.
  • Ensure quality development of project reports, contracts, and other programming documents, and monitor ongoing activities to ensure they are reaching the intended objectives and are in full compliance with donor regulations.

Qualifications

  • Minimum of 10 years overseas experience in the international development field.
  • Experience developing and managing USAID Title II programs.
  • Experience with commodity management under P.L. 480 required.
  • Demonstrated proficiency in the field of people and project management, as well as strategic planning.
  • Prior experience with USAID projects, procedures, policies and reporting requirements is required; prior experience with Title II projects is highly preferred
  • Effective record of building relationships with governmental organizations as well as private and community organizations is required
  • Established track record of achieving results within difficult working environments is required
  • Masters degree in a pertinent field (for example: social research, project management, international development, international business) is highly desirable
  •  Fluency in English
Apply online at: http://acdivoca.maxhire.net/cp/?E55C6F361D43515B7E59192F775618630362774B
No phone calls please. Only finalists contacted. Women and minorities encouraged to apply. EOE.

Contact Information:

ACDI/VOCA International Recruitment

Staff Attorney, Center for Science in the Public Interest

The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) is a non-profit health-advocacy group based in Washington, D.C., that focuses on nutrition and food safety. CSPI publishes Nutrition Action Healthletter, the nation's largest circulation nutrition newsletter. CSPI provides valuable, objective information to the public, represents citizens' interests before legislative, regulatory, and judicial bodies, and ensures that advances in science are used for the public's good. CSPI is supported largely by the 850,000 U.S. and Canadian subscribers to its Nutrition Action Healthletter and by foundation grants.
The Litigation Project uses state and federal courts, as well as filings before federal agencies, to help correct corporate misbehavior. The project brings its own advocacy lawsuits, working with private lawyers across the country. CSPI’s legal filings have produced binding settlements resulting in more honest labeling of artificial ingredients and halting deceptive marketing. In addition, the Litigation Project files a variety of complaints and rulemaking requests before the FDA and other federal agencies. The Staff Attorney assists the Director in using the legislative and judicial system to further CSPI’s goals.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Undertake litigation on behalf of CSPI or on behalf of private plaintiffs.
  • Identify and retain appropriate class plaintiffs.
  • Draft complaints and other legal documents such as motions, briefs, and discovery requests and responses; conduct discovery.
  • Meet litigation deadlines.
  • Choose appropriate forums for suit.
  • Research new topics for litigation possibilities.
  • Identify matters suitable for regulatory action.
  • Draft complaints and other documents for filing before federal agencies.
  • Stay up-to-date on trends within the food industry.
  • Read relevant trade journals and news stories, examine advertising and labeling for food products.
  • Stay abreast of changes in relevant statutes and regulations.
  • Attend conferences and earn CLE credits.
  • Maintain law license in at least one state.
  • Help supervise litigation interns.

Qualifications

  • Law degree (J.D.), admitted to at least one state bar, and 1 to 7 years of litigation or regulatory experience.
  • Member of D.C. Bar or ability to apply for admission immediately upon hire.
  • Knowledge of consumer and regulatory law and litigation experience.
  • Strong legal writing, research and verbal communications skills.
  • Ability to read, analyze and interpret common legal and technical journals, financial reports and legal documents.
  • Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from regulatory agencies, or members of the business community.
  • Computer proficiency with MSOffice, and experience with Internet-based research tools such as Westlaw.
  • Demonstrated commitment to public-interest advocacy and consumer protections.
Application  Send your application materials, which should include a cover letter indicating relevant experience and interest, résumé, and writing sample to:
Colleen O'Day
CSPI - Dept. IDSA
1220 L Street, NW #300
Washington, DC 20005
Or email (preferred): hr@cspinet.org
Applications due on or before 12/11/2012.

Sunday, October 7, 2012

Senior Counsel for Regulatory Affairs


We have been asked to assist in locating candidates for the position of Senior Counsel for Regulatory Affairs at Roll Law Group PC.

The position announcement is as follows:

Roll Law Group PC, the “in-house law firm” for Roll Global LLC, is seeking a Senior Counsel to direct global food and beverage regulatory work for all of its privately-held farming and food and beverage companies.  Roll Global and its affiliates are global leaders in their respective industries.  Paramount Agribusiness comprises Roll’s vertically integrated farming operations, which include pistachios, almonds, pomegranates and citrus, representing such well-known brands as Wonderful, Cuties, and POM Wonderful.  The Roll Global portfolio also includes other businesses such as FIJI Water and Teleflora.  Roll Global and its affiliates collectively have over $3 billion in annual revenues and over 5,000 employees.  The Roll Global and Roll Law Group headquarters is located in West Los Angeles.  Roll Law Group has over 40 lawyers plus staff, providing legal services to all of Roll Global’s operating companies in almost every legal discipline.


RESPONSIBILITIES

Counsel and advise operating companies on U.S. food and beverage regulatory matters, including safety, quality, labeling, marketing, and advertising.

Direct and manage the compliance of operating companies with food and beverage laws and regulations in international markets.

Engage as appropriate with officials at FDA, FTC, USDA, EPA, FAS and international agencies, including Codex Alimentarius Commission, EFSA, etc.

Manage internal health-claims approval process.

Provide legal advice, training, and education on emerging regulations, including the new U.S. Federal Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

Manage investigations and enforcement actions related to operating companies’ food and beverage businesses, including product retrieval events (recalls, withdrawals, etc.).

Provide counseling related to new product development, including GRAS applications and substantiation of health, nutrition, natural and other food-related claims.

Work closely with Government Affairs team to help operating companies take advantage of legislative opportunities and manage risks domestically, at both the federal and state levels, and internationally across various jurisdictions.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum of 7 years’ experience practicing in a top-tier law firm or food and beverage company in the area of food and beverage regulation commensurate with the responsibilities enumerated in this post.
 
Demonstrated excellent judgment, common sense, and ability to work well with operating companies and external operating companies.

JD from an accredited, top tier law school.

Strong academic credentials, excellent analytical, organizational, verbal and written skills required.

Ability to provide top-quality, proactive, accurate, timely and effective legal support in a fast moving environment with minimal supervision.


OTHER

Competitive salary and benefits offered.  We will pay for relocation to the Los Angeles area.


Monday, October 1, 2012

IATP Senior Associate, Agriculture Policy

The Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy (IATP) works at the intersection of policy and practice to ensure fair and sustainable food, farm and trade systems, locally and globally.  IATP has offices in Minneapolis and Washington.  This position is based in Minneapolis.

DESCRIPTION
IATP seeks a full-time Senior Program Associate to coordinate the Institute’s work on agriculture policy.  The Senior Program Associate will be involved with the design and implementation of a multi-year plan, with co-workers and partners, to redefine what agriculture policy should look like regionally, nationally and internationally.  This position will require visionary thinking, a background in agriculture and food policy, strong analytical, writing and communication skills, and the ability to coordinate work and people.

RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Coordinate IATP agriculture policy staff and partners in developing initiative.
  • Lead implementation for agreed projects
  • Participate in advocacy efforts for federal and local policy change
  • Supervise interns, and potentially staff, as needed
  • Support communications through the news media, social media and IATP websites, as well as written reports and analyses
  • Represent IATP publicly
  • Participate in fundraising and reporting
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Understanding of and support for IATP’s perspective on food and agriculture issues
  • 5-10 years’ experience working professionally on agriculture issues
  • In-depth understanding of agriculture policy and the infrastructural barriers to a sound, sustainable policy
  • Excellent communication, public speaking, writing, analytical, and project management skills
  • Ability to relate cooperatively and constructively with a diversity of colleagues and stakeholders
  • Ability to learn new issues, work independently and take initiative while meeting agreed upon goals and deadlines
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to travel
  • Solid computer skills
  • Team player - good interpersonal skills and sense of humor a must.
  • Masters degree or equivalent graduate work in in agriculture, public policy or related fields preferred.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
Compensation for this position is based on qualifications and experience.  IATP offers excellent health insurance, vacation and sick leave benefits and a lively, creative work environment at our office in Minneapolis, MN.

APPLICATION: Send resume and cover letter to IATP Human Resources at jobs@iatp.org.  The deadline for applications is October 29.

IATP is an equal opportunity employer.  We actively encourage people of color to apply for this and all positions at IATP. 

Executive Director of Ten Rivers Food Web

Ten Rivers Food Web (TRFW) is a nonprofit organization spanning three counties in the heart of western Oregon, from the Pacific ocean to the foothills of the Cascade mountains.  TRFW's vision is a robust foodshed where at least 30% of the food consumed in our three-county region is locally grown, processed and distributed.  TRFW strives to make local food available to people of all income levels and help farmers reach more markets. While many are devoted to the local food movement, TRFW's goal is to reach those unaware of its benefits to the health of their communities and themselves.

Executive Director Position 
Leading candidates will be broadly informed leaders with a high level of intellectual curiosity and the capacity to educate the public and encourage others to explore new terrain.  TRFW seeks a self-directed person, but one who can take directions from an active Board of Directors and who can work effectively in collaboration with diverse groups of people.

 The Executive Director should be a visionary and strategic leader who understands food security issues from growing, processing and distributing food to creating access regardless of income and the impact of food security on the quality of community life and health. The ED will represent TRFW at all levels and be available to educate the public and collaborate with similar and complementary organizations and projects throughout the TRFW region.

The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors. Immediate supervision for the ED will be provided by the President of the Board or Executive Committee.

The ED has administrative responsibilities for:
  • Organizational management: programmatic; personnel; IT; insurance and facilities.
  • Supervision of staff, based on written policies established by the Board.
  • Financial management: financial planning; operating budget; grants budget; accounting and audit; tax reporting and all other reports that may be required.
  • Planning: Determine the feasibility and financing mechanism for projects and activities.
  • Contracts and Grants: oversee the pre- and post- awards of grants and other project funding.
  • Board relations: work collaboratively with the Board to develop long- and short-term strategic, programmatic, policy and fiscal goals. Maintain appropriate relations with the Board and its committees to ensure they have all the information needed to make sound decisions. Participate in Board development, orientation and training. Meet monthly with executive committee, Board President and Board.
  • External relationships: Building affiliations with other organizations; cultivating and developing relationships with philanthropic groups and individuals, and the public.
Requirements: An undergraduate degree is required; advanced degree preferred, plus 2 years experience as an ED or similar, preferably for a food-related organization. Equivalent years of experience in lieu of some education would be considered. Strong written and oral communication skills are critical to ensure the ED will be effective and persuasive in presenting TRFW and its mission to its affiliates, government and non-government agencies, and the public. The ED will be adept at developing relationships with community groups as well as business and government leaders engaged in local, regional, and national conversations of food security and the health and well-being of local food systems. To maintain the public face of the organization, the ED is required to live within the 3-county area served by TRFW and attend events outside the normal work day across the counties. The ED must hold a valid Oregon Driver’s license and carry auto insurance.

The ED will have solid experience in community food security activities and demonstrate the ability to conceptualize, develop and evaluate programs. The successful candidate will have demonstrated strong organizational, administrative and financial management skills, including the successful supervision of staff. The ED will be comfortable in a hands-on role and willing to do any task required to meet the goals of TRFW. The ED must be able to think strategically about TRFW’s priorities and help translate these priorities into program development, staff recruitment and related fundraising activities. S/He will help establish a diversified funding base and help identify potential donors to TRFW.

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience

To apply for the Executive Director position, please send in PDF form by Friday October 5th:
Your resume and contact information (address, e-mail, phone number)
A cover letter
Three pertinent references with contact information described above.
 
To:
Chris Peterson
Board President
chris@tenriversfoodweb.org

541-929-4167
or Ten Rivers Food Web, P.O. Box 2680; Corvallis, OR 97339

CoFed Seeks Executive Director

CoFed, the Cooperative Food Empowerment Directive, is seeking a new, full-time Executive Director.

The Executive Director will be responsible for providing leadership and guiding the strategic direction of the organization by setting clear priorities, investing wisely in people and systems, thinking creatively about partnerships and pursuing new development opportunities, and forging a coherent and cooperative framework that supports CoFED's long-term health and growth.

The Executive Director will enact CoFED's mission and values in pursuing the organization's highest priorities, including supporting relationships with project partners and, with the support of a full-time development staff member, securing opportunities for funding. In conjunction with the Finance Committee, the Executive Director is responsible for financial stewardship of the organization.

The Executive Director will provide tools, resources and support for staff in their daily work. This includes supporting day-to-day operations of the organization, overseeing effective project management procedures, implementing operational policies, and facilitating staff communication. The Executive Director will also build organizational cohesion between staff and the Board of Directors and cultivate a motivating work environment based on staff empowerment and accountability.

This position will begin when filled and is located in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Annual Salary Range = $32,000-42,000, commensurate with experience. Full health benefits offered beginning January 2013.

Specific Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership
  • Act as a spokesperson for the growing sustainable campus food co-op movement.
  • Assist our start-up organization in developing a successful business model that can build on existing energy for local foods and cooperatives on campuses across North America.
  • Facilitate effective interpersonal and organizational dynamics in line with CoFED's core values: Empowerment, Impact, Cooperation, Transparency, and Joy.
  • Lead an annual goal-setting process and help the group focus on the organization's highest priorities throughout the year.
  • Act as staff liaison to the Board of Directors, attend monthly Board of Directors' teleconference meetings as a non-voting member and deliver a comprehensive Staff Report.
Operational planning and management
  • Hire, manage, fire, award promotions to administrative staff and interns as needed.
  • Manage or delegate management of relationships with project partners and contractors.
  • Evaluate and refine operational policies and prepare effectiveprocedures for implementation.
Program planning and project management

  • Work with administrative team in the planning, implementation and evaluation of the organization's programs and projects.
  • Work with administrative team to prioritize and ensure timely progress of projects.
Staff planning and management
  • Establish a positive, healthy and safe work environment in accordance with all appropriate legislation and regulations - as well as CoFED's values.
    Work collaboratively with full-time national staff (currently one education/outreach staff member and one development/fundraising staff member).
    Support part-time regional staff (currently six in total) through a monthly check-in process.
    Assist staff in their professional development.
  • Coach staff to develop and evaluate work plans and priorities.
  • Monitor staff progress and conduct annual performance reviews.
Financial planning and management

  • Work with CoFED's Finance Committee to prepare a comprehensive budget before the beginning of each fiscal year and, on a quarterly basis, provide the Board and staff with a report on the revenues and expenditures of the organization.
  • Ensure that accurate bookkeeping and accounting procedures are followed and all government required documentation is filed on time and accurately.
Community relations
  • Work with development staff member to pursue fundraising opportunities.
  • Communicate CoFED's mission, impact, and programming opportunities to stakeholders.
  • Work with national staff to establish and maintain strategic partnerships.
Qualifications
  • Knowledge of and involvement in the food, sustainability, cooperative, student organizing and/or social justice movements; understanding of their challenges and opportunities.
  • Experience initiating, planning, implementing, and evaluating programs and projects.
    Excellent interpersonal communication and public speaking skills.
    Proficient in online tools and abilities for a national and digital organization (Skype, Google Docs).
    Experience fundraising preferred.
    Experience working with, coaching, or mentoring students or student organizations preferred.
    Experience with financial management and QuickBooks accounting software preferred.
  • Experience working with an all-volunteer Board preferred.

For more information:

http://www.cofed.org/jobs-and-internships/#ed

Tuesday, September 18, 2012

Animal Legal Defense Fund Fellowships


The Animal Legal Defense Fund has two new fellowship opportunities available.  These may or may not involve farm animal welfare issues.  Information is as follows: 

1) Litigation Fellow (JD required within last three years) to begin immediately. This position will last roughly one year. The application deadline is Oct. 15, 2012.

2) Litigation Fellows to begin in fall 2013. These positions will last roughly two years. The application deadline is Oct. 20, 2012.

For more information, contact Tom Linney, J.D., Animal Law Program, Animal Legal Defense Fund
aldf.org

Monday, September 10, 2012

School Food Coordinator, Philadelphia Department of Public Health

This is a full-time position analyzing, developing, and implementing school food reforms to increases access to healthy foods to children and adolescents before, during and after the school day. This position is part of Get Healthy Philly, an initiative that aims to reduce the prevalence of obesity in Philadelphia by increasing access to healthy and affordable food, decreasing access to unhealthy food, and increasing opportunities for physical activity.  The School Food Coordinator will help develop, manage and implement school food reforms in Philadelphia public and/or charter schools and after school programs, including but not limited to: student engagement and feedback on new menu offerings and school food reforms; support with staff training for implementation of school food reforms; management of a food waste evaluation; identify and assist in scaling up innovative school food practices and partnerships.  This position will liaise with partners including but not limited to: the School District of Philadelphia; Philadelphia Parks & Recreation; and Out of School Time (OST) programs.  This position reports to the Food Policy Coordinator at the Philadelphia Department of Public Health.

SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES:

The School Food Coordinator will accomplish the following:
  • Assist the Food Services Division of the School District of Philadelphia with the implementation of priority recommendations including: increased fruit and vegetable offerings, more varied cycle menus, soliciting student feedback on menu choices and quality, and assessing food waste.
  • Coordinate with the department’s youth wellness coordinator to assist in the design and implementation of youth advocacy efforts that support the initiative.
  • Envision and help implement innovative school food solutions at select schools.
  • Manage evaluation partners related to a food waste assessment or other initiatives as required.
  • Coordinate citywide efforts to improve access to and quality of foods served before, during and after school in public, private, and/or charter schools.
  • Establish and build working relationships with academic institutions, public and private partners; help raise funds for pilot projects.
  • Liaise between the Philadelphia Department of Public Health and public and private partners involved in school food wellness initiatives.
  • Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Masters in Public Health, or other related masters or doctoral degree in public health, public policy, political science.
  • Minimum two years working on school-based wellness activities.
  • Prior experience with school food policy or advocacy preferred.
  • Background or experience with research and evaluation preferred.
    - OR -
  • Any equivalent combination of education and experience determined to be acceptable by the Department of Public Health.

SALARY
Salary range is 55,000 – 62,000 and is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

QUALIFIED APPLICANTS: If you are interested in applying for this position, please contact Amanda Wagner, Food Policy Coordinator, at amanda.wagner@phila.gov.  The position will start approximately October 1, 2012 and is a ten month position ending June 30, 2013 contingent on the availability of continued funding.

SELC Seeks Office Director for Charlottesville, VA Headquarters

The Southern Environmental Law Center is seeking an attorney to serve as director of its Charlottesville, Virginia Office. This is a rare opportunity to join one of the nation's most effective environmental advocacy organizations, and to lead an office addressing some of the most important and challenging facing both the Southeast and the nation.

About SELC and the Charlottesville Office
:
With offices across the region (Charlottesville, VA; Chapel Hill, NC; Atlanta, GA; Asheville, NC; Charleston, SC; Washington, DC; Richmond, VA; Birmingham, AL; and Nashville, TN), SELC uses law and policy expertise to protect the South’s natural resources—its land, air, water, coast and wetlands—and to preserve its rural countryside and community character. Although SELC's regional focus is the Southeast, much of our work is national in scope and impact.

SELC works in Congress and state legislatures to inform environmental law; in regulatory agencies to implement environmental laws and policies; and in the courts to stop the worst abuses of southern resources and set precedents to ensure their lasting protection. SELC works collaboratively with over 100 national, state, and local groups to enhance their efficacy and achieve our common conservation goals. SELC's legal and policy staff comprises some of the nation’s leading experts in their respective fields, and over its 26-year history, SELC has earned a reputation as one of the most effective environmental organizations in the country.  SELC currently has a staff of 100, including 51 attorneys. 

SELC’s organizational structure integrates regional strategy and expertise with place-based action and results directed from its three core offices in Charlottesville, Chapel Hill, and Atlanta.  The Charlottesville office houses 12 lawyers responsible for SELC’s advocacy work in Virginia, and serves as SELC’s headquarters.

About the position
:
The Charlottesville Office Director will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the office and its success, excluding regional headquarters functions.  This includes the full range of the organization's legal and policy work in Virginia, and institutional development and fundraising in Virginia.  The Office Director will work in close partnership with the Executive Director, Deputy Director, and Director of Development, all of whom are located in Charlottesville.

Responsibilities include:

  • Developing, implementing, and leading the overall legal and policy advocacy program of the office.
  • Hiring and supervising attorneys and other Virginia staff.
  • Serving as principal SELC spokesperson in Virginia and working closely with the development and communications departments to strengthen and secure financial support for the organization and deliver its messages to various audiences.  This includes making face to face calls to help build relationships and raise funds from individuals and foundations.
  • Representing SELC in collaborations with other organizations and in other institutional relationships.
Compensation:  The salary range for this position is $90,000-130,000, commensurate with experience, plus an excellent benefits package.

Qualifications: SELC is seeking a talented, multifaceted lawyer who is a recognized leader and manager capable of both steering our work internally and building positive relationships with the environmental community, financial supporters, and key state leaders. The ideal candidate will be an excellent lawyer with 10 or more years experience; significant litigation, policy advocacy, or environmental practice experience; good presentation and people skills; a strong personal commitment to SELC's mission; and an understanding of the region and its environmental challenges and opportunities.

To Apply
: If you have these qualifications and are seeking one of the most interesting, challenging, and rewarding environmental advocacy positions available, please send your  letter of interest, resume, law school transcript, and at least three references to Hayley Parrish, Southern Environmental Law Center, 201 West Main Street, Suite 14, Charlottesville, VA  22902, or e-mail to VAjobs@selcva.org.  Please indicate clearly Office Director on subject line.

SELC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, is continually seeking to diversify its staff, and strongly encourages applications from persons of all racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Grow Montana Coalition Coordinator

The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) is seeking a Coordinator for Grow Montana, a statewide food and agriculture policy council. NCAT is a private non-profit organization that works to foster and promote sustainable technologies and systems, especially for the benefit of economically disadvantaged individuals and communities. This is a great opportunity for an individual to work with an innovative team of leaders in food and agriculture from across the state. Founded in 2005, the Grow Montana collaborative promotes policies that support sustainable Montana-owned food production, processing, and distribution, and that improve all of our citizens' access to healthy Montana foods. Grow Montana envisions a vibrant Montana-based food system that fosters healthy communities, individuals, and environments.
 
This position is located in Butte, MT. All applications and their location needs will be considered.

The position requires the equivalent of a BA/BS degree plus a minimum of three years of related professional experience. The successful candidate will need to be well-organized and able to work independently as well as in a team. You should be an excellent communicator with experience in writing and public speaking. Other qualifications include but are not limited to:
  • Strong facilitative leadership skills with experience and knowledge of community development.
  • Strong organization-building skills with the ability to prioritize.
  • Professional experience in membership-driven community-based organizations.
  • Proven program and project development, coordination and implementation capacity.
  • Demonstrated fundraising experience with foundation donors, individual donors, and/or grants.
  • Demonstrated passion for social change, and clear understanding of the vision of Grow Montana and community-based food systems.
  • Experience in community-based food systems.
  • Familiarity with state and federal policy arenas.
  • Familiarity with Montana’s community of progressive organizations, leaders, and policy makers.
Responsibilities:
The Grow Montana Coordinator will carry out the responsibilities of facilitating the Steering Committee and council partners and allies in their efforts to support community-based food systems by conducting public policy research and education that will garner statewide investments in healthy food systems, and increase the supply and access of diverse local products. The Coordinator, with guidance from the Steering Committee and NCAT staff, will also lead an inspiring campaign to frame our vision and conduct outreach and inquiry among Montana citizens and policy makers. She or he will strengthen partnerships and collaborations among relevant food and agriculture organizations in order to advance the council’s vision. The Grow Montana Coordinator will provide staff support to the Steering Committee, providing follow-up on decisions, facilitating participation of the coalition’s partners and allies, organizing fundraising, grant writing, and grant reporting. Some in-state travel will be required for meetings, conferences, and other relevant activities.

Salary and Benefits:
$28,000 - $35,000 depending on qualifications and experience. Excellent benefits include paid vacation and holidays, health, life and disability insurance, cafeteria (flex) and 401(k) plans and a pleasant, professional working environment.

Application Process:
Applications will be accepted through September 4, 2012 or until a suitable candidate can be identified. Early applications are encouraged and applications will be considered as they are received. All persons interested in being considered for the position must submit a cover letter highlighting their experience and skills relevant to the listed qualifications, a current resume and a completed NCAT application. Requests for an NCAT application and inquires about the application process should be directed to Jerrid Burk. Incomplete applications or reference on the application to "see resume" will not be considered. Applicants interested in learning more about NCAT can visit our website at www.ncat.org for a gateway to websites and projects developed by NCAT staff. Send completed application materials to:

Jerrid Burk
NCAT Human Resource Specialist
jerridb@ncat.org
P.O. Box 3838
Butte, MT 59702

NCAT values diversity and encourages minority and women applicants to apply. For additional information about NCAT please visit our website at www.ncat.org.

It is NCAT’s policy and organizational philosophy to ensure that all of our employment practices, including recruitment and hiring, are administered for all individuals without regard to race, sex, creed, color, national origin, age, religion, marital or veterans status, disability, sexual orientation, or political affiliation.

California Rural Legal Assistance Staff Attorney

California Rural Legal Assistance (CRLA) is in search of a Staff Attorney to further its mission of providing quality legal services to low-income individuals -- many of whom are farmworkers -- in over 22 California counties. This position is located in CRLA's El Centro, California office. 

Reporting to the Directing Attorney or Project Director, the Staff Attorney provides comprehensive legal services to eligible clients in CRLA priority areas in accordance with CRLA program guidelines, the ABA Standards for Providers of Civil Legal Services and the Code of Professional Responsibility.

Responsibilities
  • Provides legal service to low income clients and client groups including advice, negotiation, litigation and administrative advocacy in accordance with program priorities and case handling policies.
  • Reviews and supervises the work product of Community Workers and Clerical support staff relating to all clients being advised or represented by him/her.
  • Undertakes significant statewide impact activity, including institutional and group litigation or community economic development beneficial to the low income community.
  • Develops leadership in working with community, client and other advocacy groups related to statewide impact issues.
  • Works to develop specialized knowledge in  a substantive area of poverty law and acts as a  resource for other staff through participation in at least one CRLA task force.
  • Coordinates advocacy in substantive areas through collaboration with other human services providers, non-profit organizations and community, client or other advocacy groups.
  • Participates in CRLA training programs, local office case review or staff meetings or other CRLA activities as required.
  • Provides community education regarding legal rights and prepares materials relating to these presentations.
  • Works with members of the private bar as necessary in accordance with CRLA Private Bar Involvement.
  • Maintains contemporaneous time records in the CRLA case handling system. 
  • Maintains a good working relationship with all members of the office staff
  • Utilizes basic capabilities of word processing program. 
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements
  • Admitted to practice law before the court of any state.
  • Admitted to practice law in the State of California or willingness to take the next California Bar Exam.
  • Demonstrated commitment to working with low income clients.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication.
  • Ability to meet deadlines and perform multiple tasks while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Good people skills and the ability to maintain positive relations with a diverse population.
Salary
This is a regular full-time Staff Attorney position $42,000-$67,500 based on bar admission date. Salary is union scale and not negotiable. Excellent employer paid benefits, including 401(k) and up to $4,750 per year in law school loan reimbursement.

To apply send resume with cover letter to: HR@crla.org E-mail attachments in Word or WordPerfect only, or copy and paste resume into body of e-mail. Include “Staff Attorney-El Centro” in subject of e-mail.

Kraft Foods, Senior Counsel - Sales & Food Services

Kraft Foods is searching for a Lead Attorney to advise its North America Sales organization, including the Mass/Food/Drug, Food Service and Vend channels, as well as the North American SnackCo Ingredients businesses for the $7 billion North American SnackCo Region.  This position is located in East Hanover, NJ.

Responsibilities
  •  Ensures compliance with North American antitrust and competition laws.
  • Partners with the SVP Sales and his leadership team, as well as the North American Food Service leadership team.
  • Responsible for keeping management abreast of significant decisions, legislation and governmental regulatory rulings that may affect company’s sales, trade spending and competition policies
  • Provide day-to-day legal support for the approximately 6,100-member North American Direct Store Delivery (DSD), Warehouse and Food Service Sales Force.
  • Provide legal oversight to the Sales Finance Team in charge of administering the $1 billion-plus Biscuit trade spending budget to ensure legal compliance with U.S. antitrust and Canadian anti-competition law.
  • Provide general legal support to U.S. and Canadian Food Service businesses.
  • Provide antitrust advice and compliance training to the broader North American Sales Force organization (including Food Service) on matters including Fair & Equitable Treatment principles, Meeting Competition guidelines, trade spending, bracket pricing.
  • Assist the Sales Force Leadership Team in developing antitrust compliant sales policies and ensuring the fair administration of those policies.
  • Negotiate contracts with Food Service and Retail customers, brokers and distributors.
  • Review trade materials, trade advertising, co-marketing programs, promotions, customer-directed communication, pricing decisions, and selling stories for content, accuracy and antitrust compliance.
  • Provide support to Chief Counsel – Canada on Canadian-specific sales matters.
  • Provide support to NA M&A and corporate governance projects
  • Contributes to both the Regional and Global law department by working with other regional counsel on developing competition law policies, sharing best practices, etc.

Qualifications
  • JD Degree from an accredited law school and top academic credentials
  • 7-10 years of experience, including significant in-house or government agency experience pertaining to antitrust compliance,
  • prior major law firm experience preferred.
  • Strong antitrust and sales transaction experience, Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry experience preferred.
  • Excellent management skills and business judgment with a capacity to make decisions and give reasoned, competent advice that demonstrates an understanding of overall business objectives and the risks/rewards of each situation.
Apply Online

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

International Fellowships in Eastern Europe


While this opportunity is not agricultural or food law related, your proposal to participate certainly could be. Agricultural and food law issues are critical in these countries.

2013-2014 INTERNATIONAL FELLOWSHIPS FOR
U.S. SCHOLARS AND PROFESSIONALS
Individual Advanced Research Opportunities Program (IARO)
Short Term Travel Grants Program (STG)

IREX is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the 2013-2014 Individual Advanced Research Opportunities Program and Short Term Travel Grants Program.
 These innovative and flexible programs offer U.S. scholars and professionals the opportunity to conduct policy-relevant research in Eastern Europe and Eurasia. Researchers are able to increase their understanding of current regional issues, develop and sustain international networks, and directly contribute to the formation of U.S. public policy by conducting research on topics vital to the academic and policymaking communities. Fellowships provide international airfare, a living/housing stipend, visa support, emergency evacuation insurance, logistical support and, in many countries, field office support.
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The Individual Advanced Research Opportunities Program (IARO) provides students, scholars and professionals with support to conduct policy-relevant field research in the countries of Eastern Europe and Eurasia.
·         Eligibility: Master’s students, pre-doctoral students, postdoctoral scholars, and professionals with advanced degrees are eligible. Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
·         Information and online application: Individual Advanced Research Opportunities Program (IARO)
·         Deadline:  November 14, 2012
·         Examples of Recently-Funded Research Topics: Role of Social Media in Political Engagement, Peace Education in Post-Conflict Settings, Cultural Identity and Nation Building, Migration Studies
·         Contact: By email at iaro@irex.org or by telephone at 202-628-8188
The Short-Term Travel Grants Program (STG) is a short-term, flexible program for postdoctoral scholars and professionals to conduct targeted, policy-relevant research in Eastern Europe and Eurasia.
·         Eligibility: Postdoctoral scholars and professionals with advanced degrees are eligible. Applicants must be US citizens.
·         Information and online application Short-Term Travel Grants Program (STG)
·         Deadline:  February 6, 2013
·         Examples of Recently-Funded Research Topics:  Regional Economic Development, Islamic Influence in Central Asia, Human and Civil Rights in Eastern Europe, Gender and Politics
·         Contact: By email at stg@irex.org or by telephone at 202-628-8188
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Countries Eligible for Research:
Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Georgia, Hungary, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Poland, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan

IARO and STG are funded by the U.S. Department of State Title VIII Program

_______________________________________________

Associate Dean for Environmental Programs - Vermont


Associate Dean for Environmental Programs

Vermont Law School invites applications for the position of Associate Dean for Environmental Programs, a faculty position.  The Associate Dean sets the strategic direction for, and oversees the administration of, the Environmental Law Center (ELC), which houses the largest and deepest environmental law program in the country.  Candidates with appointments at other law schools, those who are currently in practice or doing significant policy work, and those who currently hold executive positions at NGOs or in business are all encouraged to apply.  The next ELC director replaces Marc Mihaly, who was promoted to President and Dean of Vermont Law School this year.  A detailed position description is posted here:

http://www.vermontlaw.edu/About_VLS/Employment_at_VLS/Associate_Dean_for_Environmental_Programs.htm

Candidates must have a JD degree and be qualified to teach in the environmental program.  They must also possess excellent organizational, interpersonal communication, and team building/collaboration skills. Experience in administration and/or management is preferred along with either broad experience in different areas of legal practice in the environmental arena or a record of education development as well as a demonstrated ability to innovate and lead.

Faculty at Vermont Law School take seriously our mission to educate lawyers for the community and the world, and believe that our scholarship, teaching, and service should be meaningful and relevant to the local, national, and international communities.  We embody the spirit of Vermont -- independence and diversity in people and in politics. We have the good fortune to be located in a state and region that offer numerous opportunities for engaged participation in civic life as well as a lifestyle found at few other law schools.

Vermont Law School embraces diversity in its recruitment and hiring efforts.  Accordingly, candidates of color, women, and those from other underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply for this position.  Applicants should provide a cover letter and resume by October 1, 2012. Electronic applications are preferred and should be e-mailed to: facultysearch@vermontlaw.edu.

Appointments Committee: Pat Parenteau (Chair), John Echeverria, Stephanie Farrior, Cheryl Hanna, Michael Dworkin, Mark Latham, Rebecca Purdom, Stephen Dycus.

Monday, August 27, 2012

Oklahoma College of Law: Agricultural Law Teaching


The University of Oklahoma College of Law is pleased to continue its multi-year hiring campaign to recruit top faculty to our flagship state law school. Over the past decade, the College of Law has built world-class facilities, attracted exceptional students and faculty, and dramatically increased endowed faculty positions and resources.  We are committed to building on this momentum and have openings for tenure-track positions or tenured positions at the ranks of Associate or full Professors.  We have a particular curricular need for faculty with expertise and interest in Natural Resources Law, Administrative Law, Energy Law, Water Law, Biotechnology Law, and Agriculture Law.

The University of Oklahoma is located in Norman, a college town near Oklahoma City, which has been recognized nationally as one of the best places to live.  As an equal opportunity employer, the University encourages applications from women, members of minority groups, and others who would further diversify our faculty.  Applicants should possess a J.D. or equivalent academic degree, strong academic credentials, and a commitment to excellence in teaching and scholarship. Application review will begin immediately, but the positions will remain open until filled.  The College of Law will participate in the AALS hiring process, but interested candidates may also apply directly by sending a cover letter and vitae to Dawn Tomlins [dtomlins@ou.edu], Assistant to the Faculty Appointments Committee, University of Oklahoma College of Law, 300 Timberdell Rd., Norman, OK 73019.

Sunday, August 26, 2012

West Virginia Land Use Clinic


The University of West Virginia is advertising for a "Supporting Land Use Attorney."  The position is described as follows:                                                

This position is responsible for assisting the Lead Land Use Attorney with outreach, education and training directed at county and local government officials to promote adoption of sustainable land use policies and practices, including responsibility for assisting in two 4-day intensive training programs each year for local government officials within specified West Virginia watersheds.  The training will be modeled after the Land Use Leadership Alliance (LULA) program at the Land Use Law Center at Pace Law School, the national leader in such education and training programs.

Here is a direct link to the job posting and much more information.