About LEAP

Local Environmental Agriculture Project (LEAP) is a Roanoke-based 501c3 nonprofit. Founded in 2009, LEAP strives to nurture equitable food and farming systems that prioritize health and abundance. LEAP programs include two farmers markets, a mobile market, a farm share, a food hub, a retail store, a processing kitchen, three community gardens, and robust food access programs. LEAP is a fiscal sponsor for the Roanoke Foodshed Network, a community of partners from across the region working together on initiatives that promote farmers, food access, and local food systems. LEAP is also the fiscal sponsor for Virginia Fresh Match, a statewide network of farmers markets and retail stores that make fruits and vegetables more affordable for SNAP participants. Learn more about LEAP at leapforlocalfood.org, Roanoke Foodshed Network at roanokefoodshednetwork.org, and Virginia Fresh Match at VirginiaFreshMatch.org.

LEAP values:

• Equity: We believe that all people should have affordable access to the food that feeds them and their families. We believe that farmers and food producers should be able to have viable businesses.
• Dignity: We value and honor all people. We work to see, hear, listen, and understand the food community at all levels.
• A holistic approach: Our region's people, animals, and environment have wide-ranging and different needs. We seek to understand this complexity and support systems which focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• The benefits of local food: We are rooted in trusting relationships with community members, businesses, organizations, and governments to collectively support our food community.
• Love: We serve our community with passion, love, and humility.

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Director of Communications and Organizational Development

Position Description

The Director of Communications and Organizational Development will provide leadership in LEAP’s operations and long-term sustainability. If you have experience in external communication strategy and implementation, organizational development, project management, resource development, and leadership, particularly in a small-team environment, this role is an opportunity to put those skills to use. This position will manage the Support Team, work closely with the Director of Programs to support LEAP programs, and report to the Executive Director.

‍Position Responsibilities

Organizational Development and Strategy

• Identify areas of improvement in processes and strategy related to human resources, staff development, organizational culture, fundraising, and long-term planning. Propose innovative solutions, and work with staff on implementation.
• Work with the Executive Director, Director of Programs, and Managers to strengthen, clarify, and implement organizational policies and processes.
• Lead the organizational strategy, processes, and communications for individual donors and business sponsorships. Work closely with the LEAP Board, Executive Director, Director of Programs, and Support Team on implementation.

Internal Communications

• Lead projects aimed at improving and streamlining processes related to organizational functions and internal communications.
• Provide leadership and manage the Support Team to set and complete goals for strong internal communications, onboarding and offboarding staff, facility management, office supplies and equipment, financial processes, and administrative services.
• Lead communications and planning for staff activities, trainings, all team meetings, and weekly happenings.

External Communications and Outreach

• Create and manage the organizational strategic communications plan. Work with Directors and Managers to implement via LEAP website, monthly newsletter, Annual report, program-specific communications, and social media.
• Support program managers in strategic planning and messaging for program-specific events and communications.
• Lead communications and planning for LEAP donor, sponsor, and community events.
• Serve as the lead for external communications including earned and paid media, community presentations, and facility tours. Work closely with staff on implementation.
• Lead communications response and messaging for community requests and inquiries.
• Cultivate relationships and network with potential donors, sponsors, and community partners.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Attributes

• Proactive and strategic thinker; excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Superior communication (written, verbal, and interpersonal), presentation, and facilitation skills
• Exceptional leadership and team management skills, including peer-to-peer
• Strong understanding of project management principles and practices
• Proficient with Google Drive, Microsoft Office Suite, or related software
• Proficient in customer databases and/or project management tools
• Thrive when working independently and as a supportive team member
• Demonstrated experience with organizational development and/or multi-partner/multi-team project design, implementation, and management
• 3+ years of experience in a leadership role in nonprofit organization or business
• Committed to local food, farming, and community

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Position details

• This is an in-person position at The LEAP Hub (1027 Patterson Ave SW, Roanoke)
• This is a full-time, exempt position
• Salary is $50,000-$65,000, depending on experience
• Benefits include paid time off, flexible work schedule, matching retirement account, and discounts on local food

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Application details

• To apply, email the following to maureen@leapforlocalfood.orgsome text
  • A cover letter that speaks to why you are interested in this position and your experience and skills related to the position
  • A resume that supports your cover letter
• Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with a priority deadline of February 1, 2025