Organizational Overview

The Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture (NSFA) represents the interests of Nova Scotia's agricultural community. Today, its members account for well over 90% of all primary agricultural production in Nova Scotia, and it brings together farm businesses representing all aspects of primary agriculture in the province. The NSFA tackles policy issues that impact the competitive and sustainable nature of the industry and takes an active role in supporting registered farms through the delivery of programs and services. The NSFA supports farm employers by providing tools, resources, best practices, and training while advocating on their behalf.

At the NSFA, we pride ourselves on fostering an enthusiastic, collaborative work environment where team members are supportive, ideas are shared freely, and everyone works together to achieve common goals.

Position Overview

The NSFA is currently seeking a Director of Operations to join the team. This role plays a central part in turning the organization's strategic goals into coordinated action by building the systems, plans, and supports that empower the entire team to succeed. Working under the guidance of the Executive Director, the Director of Operations will ensure the organization has the right systems, operational controls, administrative and reporting procedures, and people supports in place to improve overall efficiency.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of member-based not-for-profit organizations, funding management, and program management. They are a people- and systems-minded leader with experience in organizational operations, people management, and process improvement. With the ability to lead staff empathetically and embrace continuous improvement, they understand how to guide effective change. Skilled at building structure while enabling flexibility, they ensure systems and practices support both the team and the broader goals of the organization. A collaborative leader, they empower staff as subject matter experts, foster accountability, and cultivate a culture of teamwork. The successful candidate will bring strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills, along with the ability to navigate complex challenges, think holistically, and adapt to the evolving needs of NSFA, its members, and partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Translate strategic direction into actionable operational plans with clear timelines, deliverables, and performance indicators by developing and refining tools such as reporting templates, workplans, trackers, dashboards, and meeting documentation.
• Lead and empower team by building systems and processes that make it easier for staff to succeed, including workflow documentation, coordination tools, and standard operating procedures.
• Provide operational support and guidance to the Leadership Team, including preparing agendas, facilitating discussions, documenting decisions, and ensuring follow-up on assigned actions.
• Identify where cross-functional collaboration is needed and proactively manage the flow of information, timelines, and deliverables between teams.
• Provide coaching and mentorship to Leaders on effective people management to foster a culture of collaboration, shared problem-solving, continuous improvement and accountability.
• Coordinate the hiring process by developing job postings, participating in interviews, and ensuring smooth onboarding and integration for new hires.
• Support the development and monitoring of budgets by coordinating funding tracking, claims, and processes to ensure contractual and reporting requirements are met.
• Establish processes for collecting, managing, and using operational data to inform decisions and fulfill internal and external reporting requirements. Prepare reports and updates to support Executive Director and Council in decision-making.
• Oversee operational processes related to member services, such as Farm Registration and County Federation coordination.
• Oversee procurement systems, service contracts, maintenance schedules, and vendor coordination to ensure transparent and cost-effective use of resources.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in business administration, organizational leadership, or a related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive leadership experience, preferably in a not-for-profit, member-based organization.
• Proven ability to translate strategy into operational systems, tools, and plans that enable staff success.
• Experience managing funding agreements, tracking requirements, and preparing compliance reports.
• Financial acumen, including budget oversight and funding management
• Proficiency in M365, SharePoint and other digital collaboration and data systems.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills to support collaboration and alignment across diverse teams.
• Knowledge of the agriculture sector is considered an asset.
• Must have a valid Nova Scotia driver's license and access to a vehicle

Compensation

• Starting annual salary between $80,000 and $89,000
• Three (3) weeks of vacation annually plus winter Holiday closure
• Ten (10) Health & Wellness Days annually
• Employer-paid health and dental benefits
• Employer-paid life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Short-term and long-term disability plan
• 8% RRSP match following one year of employment
• Hybrid work option pending position requirements

Email resume and cover letter to [email protected] quoting "Director of Operations" in the subject line by September 7, 2025.