Dairy Project Leader (Rupert)

Eric Newman a dairy industry expert manages EHN Consulting LLC which is a professional services firm focused on helping clients with strategic business development, in the Dairy Industry, food and beverage sector. EHN Consulting LLC specializes in organic and grassfed dairy with vertically integrated producers and cooperatives. We value collaboration, continuous improvement, relationships and data-driven decision making. The company promotes an inclusive, flexible work environment that supports remote collaboration and professional growth.

Role Description The Dairy Project Leader is a full-time remote role, with occasional onsite visits, responsible for overseeing multiple work streams related to building and commissioning a greenfield cultured dairy plant for CPGs and retailer private labels. This role coordinates a wide range of cross-functional activities; From business develoment including financial analysis, P&L and proforma oversite, cultivating equity investors and negotiating offtake agreements. Applying for USDA, State of Idaho and City of Rupert, grants loans and programs. They will coordinate with the engineers, and contractors ongoing. Day-to-day tasks include managing project timelines, aligning internal and stakeholder teams, monitoring progress, and addressing risks or issues. The role also involves analyzing data, preparing project reports, and communicating project status and outcomes to key stakeholders. This role does not have to be proficient in all aspects and will have access to consultants and experts in their fields to assist at all times. This position requires proactive leadership, clear communication, and a focus on continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of dairy products and experience in the dairy or broader food & beverage industry.
• Skills in negotiating with equity investors coupled with offtake agreements. Has the ability to manage equity investors and customer expectations and build strong relationships.
• Project leadership or project management experience, including planning, execution, and stakeholder coordination.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with proficiency in using data to guide decisions.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate clearly in remote settings.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and collaborate with diverse teams across locations.
• Bachelor’s degree in food science, dairy science, engineering, business, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Familiarity with food safety regulations and industry standards (e.g., HACCP, GMP) is beneficial.
• Familiarity with Organic and Natural Foods industry and organic dairy farming and USDA regulations is beneficial.
• Familiarity with Supermarket, Natural Foods retailers and Club retail channel

Project timeline- This is an active project and this role ideally will begin January of 2027. If the candidate can begin in Q4 even on a part time basis, that will help with assimilation of existing project business plans and proformas. engineering plan, introduction to existing equity investors, and coordination with Value Added Producer Grant application and interface with legal and financial teams and producer owners. This role is expected to run 18-24 months. There will be an opportunity to join the team in a leadership postion as well.

Compensation- This is a contract (1099) position. Base annual salary $200K paid biweekly. Approved travel and per diem expenses fully reimbursed.