Real Organic Project is a grassroots, farmer-led non-profit organization focused on integrity within the certified Organic food system. Real Organic Project manages an add-on label for farmers committed to the foundational values and practices of Organic farming: whole farm commitment to integrity, soil health, worker protections and animal welfare. We currently certify over 1,000 farms in North America.
Naturland is the largest Organic farmers association worldwide established in 1982 in Germany at a time when Organic farming and animal welfare interested only a few. The vision of the founders: 100 percent Organic, worldwide. Naturland is still pursuing this goal, now in 60 countries globally by offering high Organic farming, fairness, and processing standards.
This newly formed Real Organic Naturland “joint venture” is a shared project between both organizations. The goal is to market the “Real Organic” add-on certification mark for Organic foods in North America. The certification mark will provide North American consumers with the confidence that the certified products are produced without compromises in animal husbandry, soil health, and worker welfare. This new company will promote and market high value Organic products certified by Real Organic Project and Naturland in North America under one common brand.
Job Description
Salary Range: 75-100K (please note the top end of this range is reserved for those with significant directly relevant experience)
Job Summary
The Real Organic Naturland Sales and Marketing Director:
Develops, manages and implements the marketing and sales strategy and activities of the Joint Venture
Develops and ensures implementation of the Joint Venture communication strategy
Identifies and recruits potential clients among North American Organic food brands, processors, and Naturland certified products
Coordinates and executes sales activities
Works closely with the Real Organic Naturland Board of Directors, domestic and international farmers, and the staff of Naturland and Real Organic Project
Represents the Joint Venture at Organic trade shows
Proactively engages with all stakeholders to ensure the organization's development and sales goals are met
Thinks and acts creatively, and with purpose, to engage new clients and find opportunities for the Joint Venture to be successful
This fully remote leadership role is an excellent opportunity to work with two well respected farmer-led organizations to have a significant impact on the US Organic market. This position will be largely self directed and will provide the opportunity to build a program from the ground up while working with a diverse group of stakeholders. Successful applicants will be able to match a passion for Organic farming and food with demonstrated experience in marketing and sales.
Experience and Skills:
3+ years managing complex sales and marketing channels
At least 3 years of experience managing the full life cycle of a sales channel (from generating leads to sale)
3+ years working with Organic and natural retailers/processors in a sales or marketing capacity
3+ years of experience working with national brands and retailers in the Organic and natural foods space
Strong network in the Organic sector in North America
Ability to travel at least 20% of the time (travel costs paid by Joint Venture)
Strong portfolio of connections within the Organic and natural foods retailer and/or processor space
Demonstrated experience building sales and marketing channels with year over year increases in sales volume
Previous experience working in a startup environment and/or an environment that requires significant independence and self motivation
Ability to work proficiently with simple technology programs like Zoom and Google Suite
Valid driver's license
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in written and verbal forms
Demonstrated experience setting and meeting ambitious goals
Deep knowledge of the Organic foods industry
Demonstrated experience creating and managing budgets
Responsibilities
Manage the entirety of the Joint Venture program including regular board meetings, set up of certification processes, and responsibilities that may not be listed in this document
Create and adhere to budgets for the Joint Venture
Create and distribute written and visual collateral to aid in marketing and sales
Attend conferences and other industry events on behalf of the Joint Venture
Actively network in person, and virtually, with prospective clients
Be the public voice of the Joint Venture by actively seeking out speaking and other earned media opportunities.
Manage communication between the Joint Venture, Naturland and Real Organic Project
Develop relationships with brands, retailers, distributors and importers
Develop and maintain a strong understanding of the Organic retail space as it relates to Joint Venture products
Directly interface with Organic farmers certified to sell through the joint venture and/or brands hoping to sell their products in the US. This includes “matchmaking” between farmers, certification agencies, and processors
Manage recordkeeping for the Joint Venture along with any related certification documents
Maintain up to date information about the Joint Venture on any relevant websites and/or social media
Although this role does not currently involve supervising staff, as the Joint Venture grows this role may involve direct and indirect staff supervision
See details and apply
Real Organic Naturland Sales and Marketing Director