Manager, Food Program's Special Initiatives

Job Description

Job Description

FLSA: Exempt/Overtime Ineligible

Benefits: Eligible

Hours Per Week: 40/Full-time

Met Council is America’s largest Jewish charity dedicated to serving the needy. We fight poverty through comprehensive social services and by treating each client with compassion, integrity, and respect. Our programs are staffed by experts who help over 325,000 clients each year and advocate on behalf of all needy New Yorkers. Our services include 100% affordable housing at 21 locations, family violence services, Holocaust survivor assistance, geriatric social work, crisis intervention and the largest free kosher food distribution program in the world. Our network of 120 food pantries, affordable housing sites, and JCCs provide services directly in neighborhoods across New York City.

Position Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Manager of Food Program’s Special Initiatives to support the reach and impact of Met Council’s food program. Reporting to the Director of Food Program’s Special Initiatives, this individual contributor will help facilitate the implementation of strategic initiatives, support the development and execution of new areas and models of growth, and contribute to partnership-building efforts within the network of food providers and funders at both a local and national level. This may include (1) the integration of the Kosher National School Lunch Program into the Food Program’s operations, (2) continued development of our digital food pantry platform and warehouse management tool Market by Met Council, and/or (3) the expansion of revenue-generating models of food provision. Depending on the individual’s experience and expertise, the Manager may also independently lead select projects and initiatives.

Principal Responsibilities:

The Manager of Food Program’s Special Initiatives will be a thoughtful and action-oriented professional working closely with the Director of Food Program’s Special Initiatives to support and, where appropriate, lead special projects that advance Met Council’s Food Programs.

• Support the Director of Food Program’s Special Initiatives in short, medium, and long term strategic planning activities, as well as the Food Program’s research, implementation, and evaluation efforts.
• Serve as a partner to the Food Program’s leadership.
• Assist in scaling and implementing new programs and initiatives designed to distribute more emergency food in ways that increase client dignity and convenience.
• Manage project plans, timelines, deliverables, and cross-functional coordination for a range of strategic initiatives.
• Support the development and implementation of innovative models of service delivery, digital tools, policy-related initiatives, and other operational improvements.
• Contribute to identifying, facilitating, and maintaining partnership opportunities with community organizations, providers, and funders.
• Represent Met Council in meetings, presentations, and collaborative forums as appropriate.
• Lead select projects and special initiatives independently, based on organizational priorities and the Manager’s experience and expertise.
• Collaborate with the Food Program’s leadership and interdepartmental partners on special projects and initiatives.
• Other responsibilities as required.

Competencies:

• Must have a passion for serving vulnerable communities and those in need of our services, consistent with the mission of Met Council.
• Demonstrated ability in project management and tracking and advancing programmatic deliverables.
• Ability to articulate goals, objectives, progress, and outcomes in writing for internal and external audiences.
• Ability to plan, organize, and implement activities aligned with organizational goals.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to work effectively with professionals from diverse backgrounds.
• Knowledge of Jewish or Muslim dietary needs (i.e. kosher & halal) preferred, willingness to learn required.
• Ability to work effectively in collaboration with other individuals and organizations and operate with a high degree of professionalism.
• Strong organizational, planning, reporting, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to assess situations, manage competing priorities, and make sound and timely decisions.

Skill and Education:

• Bachelor’s degree required (preferably in human services, public policy, operations, nonprofit management, or a related field). Years of related professional experience will be considered alongside education.
• Relevant professional experience in project management, program implementation, operations, partnerships, or a related area.
• Experience supporting cross-functional initiatives and managing multiple workstreams simultaneously.
• Experience with public presentations and external engagement preferred.
• Experience building collaborative relationships with community, provider, or government stakeholders preferred.
• Experience in food systems, warehouse/logistics operations, public benefits, school meals, or related implementation work is a plus.
• Tech savvy, with a strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (required).
• Knowledge of CRMs, ERPs, and other digital tools (preferred).

Physical Demands:

1. Required Constantly: Walking, sitting, grasping, bending, stooping, squatting, computer input, finger dexterity and coordination of hand, eye and foot
2. Required Frequently: Standing and climbing stairs; carrying laptop & files (approx. 8-10 lbs)
3. Required Occasionally: Reaching above the shoulder, and lifting 5-25 pounds, pushing and pulling

Special Requirements:

1. Travel throughout the five boroughs using public transportation as needed.

Compensation: $68,000 - $75,000 per year.

Benefits: Major medical, dental, vision and life insurance; pre-tax commuter benefits; FSA; 403(b) with employer contribution; plus generous vacation, sick leave and holidays.