Executive Director

Salary Range: $65,000–$68,000 annuallyJob Type: Full-time (32 hours/week, as per FMNS full-time classification)Application Deadline: Friday, January 16, 2026 (11:59 pm)About FMNSFarmers’ Markets of Nova Scotia (FMNS) is a cooperative of 40+ markets supporting local food systems, small-scale entrepreneurship, rural economic development, and community vitality across the province. Our work is guided by our values—Buying Local, Economic Development & Incubation, Support & Education, Food Access, and Community.We are entering a new chapter focused on organizational maturity, stronger systems that support our staff, member markets, and partners. As we complete our 2023–2026 Strategic Plan and prepare for the future, we are seeking a leader who is collaborative, grounded, values-led, and deeply committed to community connection.Position SummaryFMNS is hiring an Executive Director who is energized by relationship-building, systems development, and cooperative values. The Executive Director works closely with FMNS’ Board of Directors, staff and team, providing transparent reporting, strategic recommendations, and regular communication to support strong governance.Key ResponsibilitiesBuild and maintain a culture of open, honest communication and psychological safety.Co-design decisions with staff and support shared leadership practices across the organization.Offer coaching, mentorship, and capacity‑building to grow internal leadership.2. Relationship Building & Sector ConnectionsSecure multiyear funding for the Nova Scotia Loyal, Nourishing Communities, and Taking Root programs.Develop, foster, and strengthen relationships with program partners.Strengthen relationships across food systems, entrepreneurial ecosystems, government, member markets, and community organizations.Represent FMNS in public settings while uplifting the voices of markets, vendors, and rural communities.Lead fund development and partnership‑building that supports the long‑term financial stability of the cooperative.3. Systems Building & Operational ClarityImplement and strengthen FMNS systems, including workflows, templates, policies, onboarding processes, and shared drive structures.Maintain accurate records and documentation.Support succession planning and operational continuity.4. Values‑Led & Equity‑Centred LeadershipEmbed IDEA principles into hiring, partnerships, and internal practices.Ensure FMNS’ work reflects both the mission and the diverse communities we serve.Uphold and model FMNS core values in daily decision‑making.Collaborate with the Treasurer and Board on budgeting, grant management, financial reporting, and responsible stewardship.Maintain compliance with HR policies and employment standards.Support annual planning cycles, reporting, and milestone tracking aligned with the Strategic Plan.6. Facilitation & Staff EmpowermentFacilitate collaborative discussions internally and externally.Redistribute leadership roles as appropriate.7. Change Navigation & Organizational TransitionSupport the Board as they strengthen their governance role and boundaries (Board Job Description expectations).Guide FMNS through cultural and structural change with patience, clarity, and transparency.Move at the speed that acknowledges the emotional and structural aspects of transition.8. Practical & Grounded Operational LeadershipSupport staff prioritization, pacing, and realistic timelines.Model balance and prevent burnout.Ensure commitments are met and systems remain sustainable beyond any one person.Qualifications & ExperienceExperience with grant writing and funding.Knowledge of Nova Scotia’s local food sector or cooperative sector.Experience in nonprofit, cooperative, community development, or local food/economic ecosystems.Strong relationship‑building and partnership development skills.Demonstrated ability to create systems and follow through on implementation.Experience with HR practices, policy development, and team supervision.Financial literacy, including budgets and reporting.Experience with change management in small organizations.A facilitative leadership approach rooted in collaboration and equity.Nice-to-Have AssetsExperience in rural community development or small business ecosystems.Understanding of IDEA principles and their application in nonprofits and co‑ops.Comfort working remotely and self‑directed time management.Working Conditions & BenefitsWellness days, paid holidays, and paid winter holiday closure.Flexible work environment within Nova Scotia, with required provincial travel.Supportive, community-oriented team and Board.CompensationSalary: $65,000–$68,000 annually, based on experience and alignment with FMNS’ compensated classifications and sector comparables.How to ApplyPlease submit:A resumeA cover letter that speaks to your leadership philosophy and your connection to community ecosystems(Optional) A brief statement on how you approach leadership or relationship buildingFMNS is an equal opportunity employer.We value diversity and inclusion and encourage applications from Black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+, disabled, rural, and other equity‑deserving candidates. FMNS believes lived experience is valid expertise. #J-18808-Ljbffr