OPMA SEEKS YOUR LEADERSHIP SKILLS
A rare and exciting opportunity is available to qualified candidates ― The Ontario Produce Marketing Association (OPMA) is currently accepting applications for the high-profile role of Association President.
Based in Toronto, Ontario, the OPMA is a not-for-profit organization representing over 275 international and Canadian members engaged in the growing, packing, wholesaling, retailing and marketing of fresh fruit and vegetable in Canada. The OPMA is heavily involved in the following areas: food safety, government & trade relations, marketing & promotion, networking and education & training.
As its new president, you will sustain and enhance the vibrancy of this innovative Association that engages membership through its leadership, resources and expertise about key industry issues and opportunities.
Your strong business acumen, achieved through formal education and related experience will equip you for success in this role.
You recognize the value of technology, as well as new and traditional media, as communications tools; you are skilled at developing and delivering sound business plans, including effective marketing strategies. As a confident and compelling public speaker, you can proficiently communicate clearly in both prepared and impromptu speaking settings.
You are skilled at nurturing relationships with government, regulatory bodies, media and partner associations nationally and internationally.
In partnership with the OPMA Board, you are highly effective at guiding the staff in the execution of the Association’s vision and strategy.
Resumes must be submitted by February 27, 2015.
Purpose of the position:
- Develops and maintains a vibrant, innovative Association that engages membership through its leadership, resources and expertise about key industry issues and opportunities
- In conjunction with the Board, guides the development of a vision and strategy that is clear and shared throughout the organization and has the commitment of all employees
- Ensures a progressive and respectful culture where employees work together in meaningful ways that represent the vision of the Association while attaining the goals of the strategy
- Provides strong leadership for the full scope of activities of the Association, including financial, operational, marketing, human resources, educational and networking opportunities, trade issues and government relations
- Promotes the sustainability of the Association through innovation and strategic growth
Accountable to:
- The Chair of the Board and Board of Directors through the Executive Committee.
Direct reports:
- Director of Inspection Services, Director of Marketing & Communications, Administrative Assistant.
Day to day responsibilities:
- Assures the Association is structured for maximum effectiveness by managing, directing, coaching, supporting and providing development opportunities to a competent staff
- Oversees Association benefit plans to ensure they are relevant to the market and cost effective
- Providing safe office space and the tools/systems required for the team to achieve its goals, and ensuring the staff members are appropriately rewarded for their efforts
- Safeguards the financial success of the Association by creating realistic yearly budgets, controlling expenses and monitoring financial statements
- Oversees the negotiation of agreements, contracts, partnerships
- Ensures full protection of the Association’s assets, records and legal liabilities, including liability insurance and errors and omissions insurance for the Directors and the staff
- Consults with legal counsel on issues of significance
- Assures streamlined and appropriate communication throughout the Association and with its membership and other stakeholders
- Prepares briefs, reports, recommendations and suggestions to the Board of Directors and members at large that will be in the best interest of the membership
- Organizes meetings with the Executive, the Board of Directors, and special committees as appropriate
- Ensures organizational effectiveness and communication flow through the preparation of minutes, follow up and circulation of information with respect to all meetings in a timely manner
- Represents the association to the industry, including public speaking, attending meetings on behalf of the Association (or delegating a replacement)
- Develops and maintains trustworthy relationships with government, regulatory bodies, media and partner associations regionally and nationally
Candidate should have the following qualifications and attributes:
- Strong business acumen achieved through formal education and related experience
- Previous Association experience in a leadership position as well as a background in the produce industry
- Trustworthy, emotionally intelligent leader who can achieve results and drive the culture with fairness and integrity
- A consensus builder who can engage staff, the membership and our partner organizations
- A passion for the industry and vision for the future to maintain the Association’s stature as a leader
- Natural broad perspective and ability to drive compelling strategies, and your proven ability to translate complex ideas into meaningful concepts that resonate with a target audience
- A confident and compelling public speaker, experienced at delivering prepared presentations and taking part in impromptu speaking opportunities
- Confident verbal communication, which may deal with potentially controversial issues from time to time
