Executive Director – Job Description

The Farmers Market Federation of New York (FMFNY) is a statewide nonprofit organization based in Syracuse, NY, with the mission to support and promote the viability of farmers markets through innovative services, programs, and partnerships that maximize the benefits of markets to farmers, consumers, and communities.

Position Summary:

The Executive Director (ED) serves as the chief executive and strategic leader of FMFNY, responsible for overall organizational management, program administration, financial oversight, and external relations. This role requires a dynamic leader with deep knowledge of farmers markets, food systems, and public benefit programs, as well as demonstrated experience in nonprofit management, partnerships, and fundraising. 

The ED works closely with the Board of Directors to advance the organization’s mission, ensure programmatic excellence, and strengthen FMFNY’s statewide impact. The Executive Director oversees a portfolio of core programs, including nutrition incentive initiatives, SNAP EBT support, and market development, while ensuring strong fiscal management, stakeholder engagement, and long-term sustainability. 

The Executive Director will lead the Farmers Market Federation of New York through a pivotal period of transition and guide its next phase of growth and sustainability. As the organization’s funding model evolves, the ED will manage these changes while developing new, sustainable revenue sources. A core focus of the role is to increase participation and deepen engagement among member markets, partners, and communities across New York State.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Organizational Leadership & Strategy

• Provide strategic direction and leadership aligned with FMFNY’s mission and Board priorities

• Partner with the Board of Directors to implement the organization’s strategic plan

• Identify opportunities for growth, innovation, and statewide impact

• Serve as the primary representative of FMFNY with government agencies, funders, and partners

• Promote equity and access within farmers market systems and food programs

Program Oversight & Management

Nutrition Incentive & Public Benefit Programs

• Oversee the administration of NYC Health Bucks and SNAP-related programming

• Ensure accurate reconciliation of coupons and incentive funds

• Generate and submit required reports to partners, including NYC Department of Health and NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets

• Provide technical assistance to farmers and market managers on SNAP and incentive program implementation

• Oversee procurement and distribution of tokens, equipment, and related materials

• Collaborate with marketing partners to support program awareness and utilization

Market Development & Capacity Building

• Provide consultation and technical assistance to farmers, vendors, and market managers across New York State

• Support and monitor grant awardees and funded projects

• Lead planning and execution of the Farmers Market Managers' Annual Conference

• Support training, certification, and professional development initiatives

Financial & Grant Management

• Oversee all organizational finances, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting

• Pay bills, manage cash flow, and maintain financial systems

• Ensure compliance with grant requirements and reporting obligations

• Develop and manage program budgets with a focus on sustainability and growth

• Identify and secure new revenue streams, including grants, sponsorships, and partnerships

External Relations & Communications

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including: Government agencies (e.g., NYS Agriculture & Markets, NYC DOH), market managers, farmers, funders, and philanthropic partners

• Serve as a public spokesperson for FMFNY and oversee communications, including reports, newsletters, and promotional materials

• Lead development of the organization’s annual report

Administrative & Operational Management

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the organization

• Maintain organizational systems, work plans, and reporting structures

• Ensure effective use of technology and data systems

• Support organizational policies and procedures

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree and 5+ years of relevant experience in nonprofit management, food systems, farmers markets, or related field

• Grant writing and fund development experience is required, including a track record of securing and managing grants from public and/or private sources.

• Office and financial management and nonprofit administrative skills

• Ability to travel throughout NYS to meet with and represent the organization to market managers and their supporters, and other collaborating agencies

• Proven ability to build partnerships and work collaboratively across sectors

• Excellent written, verbal, and public speaking communication skills

• Demonstrated computer proficiency, including working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, familiarity with website development, and a strong overall comfort level with technology.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong leadership abilities.

• Excellent organizational skills. 

• Strong understanding of SNAP, nutrition incentives, or public benefit programs

• Ability to work in a cooperative manner with individuals from diverse backgrounds

• Some agricultural experience is helpful

The job is contingent upon a six-month performance review before permanent placement is made.

Salary Level: $70,000 with opportunity for annual review, based on a 40-hour work week; commensurate with qualifications. This position includes paid vacation, personal leave, paid holidays, and all NYS statutory benefits.

Location: The position is currently based in Syracuse with the opportunity to work in a hybrid capacity and then an opportunity to work remotely.

HOW TO APPLY: Interested candidates are encouraged to send their resumes and cover letters to Steve Ridler, FMFNY Board President, manager@troymarket.org 

FMFNY is an equal opportunity employer committed to complying with all federal, state, and local equal employment opportunity laws. FMFNY prohibits discrimination against any employee and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, familial status, military status, height and weight, religion, genetic predisposition or carrier status, arrest record, or any other legally protected status.