The function of this position is to support the mission of Heifer USA by engaging with and coordinating livestock producers and connecting them with local, regional and national markets to support small-mid scale limited-resource farmers, and their communities.

ESSENTIAL CHARACTER TRAITS:

The ideal candidate for this position must have a background in interacting with partners that make up the local food chain in Mississippi. Must be comfortable interacting with diverse individuals from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Must be able to manage financials, monitor projected profit and loss and have a growth mindset. Additionally, must be familiar with regenerative farming practices for pastured pork or be willing to be trained in the required knowledge needed to monitor farms engaged in regenerative agricultural practices.

RESPONSIBILITIES & DELIVERABLES

A. Producer Coordination (35%)

Work with partner farms to ensure implementation of agreed production practices
Ensure timely and accurate aggregation
Schedule processing dates to meet demand
Coordinate and schedule feed deliveries
Work with farms to support product quality and traceability
Organize orders and record information on current and future inventory.
Monitor farms and storage facilities for compliance.
Maintain documentation of farm visits, including timing of pasture rotation, animal weights/growth rates and mortality rates.
B. Sales and Marketing (40%)

Conduct market research to identify consumer trends, competitor offerings, and potential target markets.
Analyze data to determine consumer preferences and purchasing behavior related to food products.
Develop and execute marketing strategies and campaigns.
Create marketing materials, including advertisements, brochures, social media content, and email campaigns.
Determine pricing strategies and promotional tactics to maximize product profitability.
Lead outreach and education regarding the benefits of regenerative agricultural products with customers, and community.
Identify and target potential clients, distributors, and retailers for food products.
Establish and maintain relationships with existing and prospective wholesale and retail clients.

Minimum Requirements:
Must have a college degree in Business, Marketing, Agriculture, or related areas and 3-5 years of experience in marketing within the food industry.

Preferred Requirements:
Excellent communication and negotiation abilities.
Proficiency in digital marketing tools and platforms.
Knowledge of food safety and regulatory requirements is a plus.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Adaptability to changing market conditions and consumer preferences.
Most Critical Proficiencies:
Must understand components of a value chain for livestock and be able to interact with producers and vendors.
Livestock management knowledge experience with proficiency in swine management or pastured pork production.
Must be aware of and or be willing to learn and implement regenerative agriculture practices.