We are looking for an experienced business advisor to work with both farm and general food businesses in Massachusetts as they launch value-added food products and other consumer packaged goods. The Farm & Food Business Advisor will work directly with clients through individual meetings and educational programming to provide general and financial business assistance to help producers grow and stabilize their start up or existing businesses. The advisor will help businesses strengthen their financial readiness and access to capital through coaching, connections, and tailored technical assistance. This role involves supporting FCCDC outreach efforts to engage farmers and local food producers, onboarding and coaching clients, and collaborating with food system stakeholders to facilitate access to resources and specialized support when necessary. This position will be supervised by the Farm & Food Products Program Director and will work closely with the Lending Director, Business Assistance Manager, and other FCCDC programs and our partners and collaborators, including state-wide organizations supporting food and farm businesses. 

A strong candidate has a firm understanding of business financials, is familiar with farm and food businesses, and enjoys working with a diverse range of clients to implement practical and meaningful changes to their operations. This person should be an effective communicator with strong networking skills, comfortable conducting outreach to farm and food businesses, as well as collaborating with industry peers and other food system stakeholders. They should have the project management skills to work with multiple clients simultaneously while tracking progress, troubleshooting issues through referrals to other service providers, and reporting on outcomes. Experience in explaining financial and business concepts to others is essential, as are strong research and presentation skills. 

Please see the full job description with directions on how to apply at our website, https://www.fccdc.org/careers/

• Similar work experience or an equivalent combination of work experience and education in business, finance, marketing, food systems, food production, food industry, farming, or related field 

• Experience in client-centric work including assessment, counseling, and training/education with an emphasis on financial management  

• Understanding of small food businesses and agricultural operations in Massachusetts and the region 

• Self-motivated with strong organizational and networking skills 

• Ability to work with people of wide-ranging backgrounds 

• Ability to communicate clearly and compellingly with farmers and food producers, team members and partners, as well as other food system stakeholders 

• Proficient with computers, Microsoft Office Suite, CRM databases, and accounting software