Located in Guelph, Ontario, Livestock Research Innovation Corporation (LRIC) is propelling the livestock and agriculture industry forward through collective investment for critical research, cross sectoral innovation, and cutting-edge technology adoption for the Ontario livestock and poultry sectors. LRIC provides a single portal through which collective investment in livestock and poultry research conducted in Ontario can generate the best possible outcomes and return on investment for the sector and the Province.

A non-profit organization, LRIC effectively links ideas, people, systems, and knowledge to accelerate innovation.

LRIC is seeking their next Chief Executive Officer to be the driving force behind the organization, ensuring its long-term prosperity and continually satisfying or exceeding the expectations of multiple stakeholders.

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO will be responsible for driving impact from research investment and communicating the return on investment to its member organizations, academic and research institutions, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

The CEO will focus on identifying priority areas of research while developing mechanisms for the effective dissemination and uptake of that research to farmers and other beneficiaries. Working across sectors to build effective linkages and increase the visibility of LRIC and its work, the CEO will work to harmonize the voices of members in addressing consumer expectations and advancing solutions for the sector. The CEO will have well founded views on how research and innovation can be used to exploit emerging opportunities, overcome barriers faced by the industry, and capitalize on Ontario's significant points of advantage for the benefit of Ontario producers and the broader value chain which they anchor.

You bring a successful track record of business management related to the livestock industry, relevant networks spanning across industry, research and government, and an understanding of the way in which research and knowledge dissemination impact innovation. You demonstrate professionalism, credibility, and a desire to make a difference, coupled with excellent communication skills and a true entrepreneurial approach. You understand how to navigate political arenas and bring both strategic and operational leadership with an understanding of association management, political acuity, and stakeholder relations.

You develop trusted relationships with key influencers, industry allies, and provincial/federal governments, and you know how to prioritize limited resources for optimal gain.

Some key responsibilities for this role include:

• Build and maintain a trusting relationship with a Board of Directors
• Ensuring that LRIC complies with the law in all respects of its operation and Financial reporting
• Responsible for the day-to-day management of the operations of the organization and project management for research initiatives undertaken by LRIC
• Raise funds for livestock and poultry research and sufficient funds to provide for efficient administration while leveraging investments
• Maintain focus on the 3-5 year horizon for the Ontario livestock sector, identifying challenges and opportunities
• Organize meetings of the Emerging Trends and Opportunities Committee once per annum
• Work with OMAFRA, value chain partners and LRIC members, develop the intellectual environment within the LRIC member base, at OMAFRA and at regional institutions
• Act as sector ambassador in Ontario, nationally and internationally to ensure that LRIC remains a highly respected organization with a reputation for excellence
• Recruit and Maintain an International Research Advisory Committee

This is a fully remote position with the candidate being located preferably in Southwestern Ontario.

Travel is required once or twice per week, on average, typically within the Guelph region

Visit us at https://livestockresearch.ca/