Program Manager – Growing Forward Project

Overview

Foodshed Alliance is seeking a highly organized and mission-driven Program Manager to lead Growing Forward, an innovative initiative that purchases surplus produce from New Jersey farmers at fair market prices and transforms it into shelf-stable, nutrient-dense food products for distribution through hunger-relief networks.

The Program Manager will coordinate farmer engagement, food procurement, logistics, inventory tracking, partner communications, reporting, and impact measurement. This position serves as the primary liaison between Foodshed Alliance, participating farms, processing partners, and distribution organizations.

Foodshed Alliance strengthens sustainable agriculture, supports local farmers, and increases equitable access to healthy food throughout New Jersey. Through programs such as LocalShare, the organization has distributed more than 1.5 million pounds of fresh food while helping build a resilient regional food system.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day implementation of the Growing Forward project.
• Recruit and maintain relationships with New Jersey farmers and project partners.
• Coordinate produce purchasing, aggregation, transportation, processing, and distribution.
• Track inventory, project outcomes, and performance metrics.
• Facilitate partner communications and meetings.
• Support institutional sales opportunities and distribution partnerships.
• Assist with budget tracking, grant reporting, and project evaluation.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in agriculture, food systems, nonprofit management, logistics, business operations, or a related field.
• Three or more years of experience in project management, food systems, logistics, operations, or community-based programs.
• Strong organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Experience managing multiple stakeholders and priorities.
• Proficiency with spreadsheets and data management systems.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Preferred: Knowledge of New Jersey agriculture and regional food systems; experience working with farmers, food hubs, food banks, or hunger-relief organizations; experience with grant-funded projects and reporting.

Compensation & Benefits

• Pay: $20–$25/hr, commensurate with experience.
• Opportunities for professional development and mission-aligned community engagement.