Executive Director

The Executive Director is responsible for the overall leadership, management, operations, programs, and performance of the Wisconsin Agri-Business Association (WABA). Reporting directly to the WABA Board of Directors, the Executive Director implements the Board’s policies and strategic direction while advancing the association’s mission and serving the interests of Wisconsin’s agribusiness industry. This is a full-time, salaried leadership position that requires flexibility in working hours, including occasional evenings for meetings, events, and industry functions. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following: Responsibilities Lead, supervise, and develop WABA staff, including hiring, performance evaluations, and establishing clear roles and expectations. Develop and implement operational plans, organizational goals, employee policies, and procedures in accordance with Board direction. Oversee the development and distribution of WABA communications and informational materials. Ensure association operations comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations and maintain appropriate insurance coverage. Work collaboratively with the Board of Directors to advance WABA’s mission, strategic priorities, and long-term success. Develop annual operating budgets for review and approval by the Board of Directors. Coordinate annual financial audits conducted by a certified public accounting firm. Oversee membership dues, program fees, accounts receivable, and collection procedures. Oversee financial accounting, reporting, recordkeeping, and expenditures in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and Board-established financial authority. Monitor financial performance and collaborate with the Board on long-term financial planning and sustainability. Member Services & Program Development Build and maintain strong relationships with WABA members and develop committee structures that encourage member participation and leadership. Develop and oversee membership programs and services that support members’ training, operational needs, and business success. Develop and implement strategies to recruit new members, strengthen engagement, retain existing members, and communicate association activities and relevant industry developments. Plan and oversee educational meetings, training programs, seminars, conferences, and other member-focused events. Oversee the planning and execution of the annual membership meeting and annual convention while identifying opportunities to enhance the value of WABA membership. Legislative & Regulatory Affairs Develop and maintain relationships with relevant state agencies, including DATCP, WisDOT, DNR, DOR, DWD, DOA, DPI, and DFI. Establish and maintain relationships with elected officials and government leaders at the federal, state, and local levels. Monitor proposed legislation, regulations, and public policy developments; evaluate their potential impact on members and advocate for policies that advance Wisconsin agribusiness interests. Identify and advance legislative and regulatory initiatives that benefit WABA members and the broader agribusiness industry. Oversee the Friends of Wisconsin Agribusiness political action committee (PAC), ensuring lobbying activities and PAC fund collection, management, and distribution comply with applicable laws and Wisconsin Ethics Commission requirements. Industry Advocacy & Engagement Represent WABA and its members in agricultural and agribusiness advocacy organizations, including the Wisconsin Agriculture Coalition. Participate in relevant regulatory boards, councils, and committees, including the DATCP Agricultural Producers Security Council, Agricultural Chemical Cleanup Program, Fertilizer Research Council, and DOT Freight Advisory Committee. Maintain relationships with industry, research, university, and national trade organizations, including UW–Discovery Farms, the UW Integrated Pest and Crop Management Committee, the UW–Renk Agribusiness Institute, NGFA, AFIA, ARA, TFI, CLA, and ASTA. Build and maintain partnerships with industry stakeholders, government agencies, educational institutions, and other organizations while serving as a spokesperson and advocate for Wisconsin agribusiness. Qualifications & Experience Bachelor's degree in agriculture, agribusiness, business administration, public policy, communications, or a related field, or equivalent relevant professional experience. Experience in agribusiness, association management, nonprofit leadership, government relations, or a related industry is preferred. Demonstrated leadership and organizational skills, including the ability to manage staff, establish priorities, oversee projects, and advance organizational goals. Compensation Range: $100,000 - $150,000 (based on experience) Health and dental insurance. Flexible hybrid work arrangement. Retirement plan with employer contributions. #J-18808-Ljbffr Wisconsin Agri-Business Association