Accountable to: Chief Operating Officer
Department: Programs and Agency Services
Employment Status: Exempt
Hours: Full Time
Location: Fargo
Position Purpose
The program director is responsible for developing, implementing, administering and evaluating the hunger-relief programs of the Great Plains Food Bank. The program director also oversees the organization’s support of, and collaboration with, a statewide network of partner food pantries and other charitable feeding programs and is a key member of the Great Plains Food Bank’s leadership team. With our values of passion, service and innovation at the forefront, this position will advance the mission of Great Plains Food Bank to end hunger together and our vision of a hunger-free North Dakota and Clay County, Minnesota.

Core Accountabilities and Essential Duties
- Program Delivery
The program director oversees the development, implementation, administration and evaluation of the organization’s childhood, senior, family and rural hunger-relief programs and delivery of services to a statewide network of partner feeding programs.
- Researches, develops, and leads implementation of new programs, initiatives and services in response to emerging or changing needs.
- Works with team members to enhance or expand current programs to better meet the needs of populations served and to address gaps in services.
- Seeks out funding opportunities and develops or assists with funding proposals to grow or maintain programs and services.
- Evaluates programs and services to ensure cost-effective and efficient service delivery. Discovers ways to enhance efficiency and productivity of procedures and people.
- Builds relationships and collaborative partnerships with community organizations and key stakeholders. Strategically sees connections and opportunities in existing and new relationships.
- Tells the story of the organization’s programs and services through public presentations and use of multiple media channels.
- Works with the finance department to develop and monitor annual program budgets.
- Oversees data collection and reporting for programs and partner agency services.
- Staff Development and Direction
The program director builds on the strong culture of the organization and its people to form a cohesive, skilled, high-performing, engaged, and values-driven team through coaching, training and professional development opportunities.
- Recruits, hires, trains, and supervises the Program Manager, Regional Service Manager, and Program Coordinator positions.
- Works with team members to develop and successfully execute annual individual work plans, monitors and provides constructive feedback on performance on a regular basis, and performs annual evaluations.
- Builds a dynamic team that shares common goals, works closely together to pursue opportunities and overcome challenges, and embraces change and innovation to advance the mission of the organization.
- Fosters employee engagement by creating a supportive environment, promoting strong communications, recognizing achievements, and motivating and challenging team members by building on their strengths and providing opportunities for growth.
- Community Relations
The program director elevates the understanding of hunger and the Great Plains Food Bank through public education and awareness.
- Serves as a spokesperson for the organization at external events (media, presentations, etc.).
- Creates, strengthens and deepens relationships with collaborative partners, civic leaders, professional organizations, and other key stakeholders and partners.
- Strategic Vision and Leadership
The program director helps develop and share a bold vision for the future of Great Plains Food Bank and ensures the organization achieves its aspirations.
- Leads the development of long-range and annual strategic plans and goals for the program and agency services functions of the organization that are innovative, responsive to the needs of clients and consistent with the mission and vision of Great Plains Food Bank.
- Drives the ongoing implementation, assures regular assessment of progress on, and recommends modifications to the programs and agency services components of the strategic plan and annual work plan.
- Provides leadership, guidance and support for the program and agency services team in executing the strategic and annual work plans.
Education, Experience and Requirements
Successful candidates for this position must hold a Bachelor’s degree in related field with a minimum of 3 years’ experience in program management, human services, or business/nonprofit management. Two or more years of supervisory experience preferred. Experience in program development, grant writing and/or community relations a plus. Valid driver’s license, ability to travel statewide and flexibility to attend meetings and events in evenings and/or on weekends required.
Skills and Competencies
- Thrives while developing relationships that further our mission
- Proven ability in building and coaching a strong, diverse and engaged staff
- Inquisitive, strategic thinker
- Strong communicator that possesses excellent written, oral and interpersonal skills
- Critical thinking skills to identify strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and inventory management software
- Ability to work in a fast paced environment with multi-faceted demands and deadlines
- Strong organizational skills and detail oriented, yet flexible with an adaptable personal style
- Strong internal and external customer service skills
- Ability to build collaboration across teams and departments
Benefits
Compensation commensurate with experience. Generous benefit package. Opportunity to contribute to an environment that values passion, service and innovation.
How to Apply
After reviewing the job description in full, please email cover letter, resume, completed application and salary requirements to hr@greatplainsfoodbank.org. Application can be found at greatplainsfoodbank.org. Strong applicants will be contacted as soon as possible to set up interviews. Applications will be accepted until position is filled.