Manager, Farm Relationships – Procurement

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in New York.

📋 Description

• Actively participate in formulating the milk sourcing strategy as a key member of the internal milk sourcing team.

• Source and onboard new direct milk producers for Organic, Conventional, and NGMO milk according to regional and milk-type demands.

• Build and maintain relationships with producers, acting as a liaison on animal welfare, sustainability, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

• Identify and nurture potential farmers who meet the criteria for direct milk supply.

• Preserve existing organic dairy farms while facilitating their growth and the transition from conventional to organic systems.

• Assist in technical support programs aimed at enhancing farm profitability and sustainability, including coordination with third-party providers.

• Oversee program administration, vendor management, budgeting, and key performance indicators.

• Provide leadership with updates on recruitment, program development, and implementation across various business units.

• Collaborate with procurement operations to adjust routes and delivery schedules as necessary.

• Function as a subject matter expert in farm-level food safety and quality compliance.

• Assist PR, Marketing, and Communications in promoting direct-supply farms through on-farm tours and virtual events.

• Spearhead animal care and carbon-footprint-reduction initiatives in collaboration with the CSR team.

• Utilize knowledge of dairy cattle nutrition to develop programs and recommendations focused on feed efficiency and milk productivity.

⛳️ Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree or higher is preferred; or equivalent experience with a minimum of five (5) years of job-related experience.

• At least 3 years of relevant industry experience is required.

• Experience working on or with farms is highly preferred.

• Background in the food or dairy industry is advantageous.

• Agricultural studies or animal science majors are preferred.

• Strong understanding of dairy cattle nutrition.

• Knowledge of, or the ability to quickly learn, effective practices for transitioning from conventional to organic dairy farming.

• Must obtain F.A.R.M. evaluator certification in Animal Welfare, Environmental Stewardship (FARM ES), and Workforce Development.

• Complete Cow Signals certification.

• Familiarity with food safety and quality standards, including Bulk Tank Unit Federal and State PMO Ratings, the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance (PMO), plant protocols, and departmental procedures.

• Capability to work extended hours as project demands require.

• Willingness to travel occasionally to company offices or outside the designated territory.

• Dedication to maintaining a safe working environment.

🏝️ Benefits

• Affordable benefits and coverage options available.

• Employer support for insurance expenses.

• Contributions to retirement plans.

• Paid Time Off starting from day one.

• Opportunities for training and development.

• Education reimbursement options.

• Provision of computer, phone, and/or allowances may be available.

• Reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.