As part of our mission, the JJK Foundation has partnered with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC), Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, and Lansdowne UP through the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Food Agriculture Nutrition Innovation Center (JJK FAN). This collaborative is committed to engaging East St. Louis youth and communities in STEM, agriculture, and food system career opportunities. The goal is to bridge the opportunity gap for underrepresented communities of color by developing pathways that lead to careers in the expanding ag-tech, food production, and food system sectors while stimulating entrepreneurial and career engagement in regional food systems among an underrepresented population. The Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation is actively seeking a full-time mission-driven professional to join our team as the JJK FAN Partnership Manager.
RESPONSIBILITIES: Act as the main point of contact for outside partnerships specific to the JJK FAN purpose and goals, ensuring effective communication and collaboration. Collaborate with the JJK Foundation COO, CFO, and JJK FAN Director to plan, coordinate, and execute projects and initiatives. Develop and oversee comprehensive project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation, ensuring successful execution and alignment with strategic goals. Supervise and mentor JJK Foundation programming staff dedicated to JJK FAN-related projects, ensuring alignment with project objectives and organizational goals. Support the professional growth of staff through training, mentorship, and development opportunities, ensuring a highly skilled and motivated team. Prepare and deliver comprehensive project reports, updates, and presentations to internal and external stakeholders, keeping them informed of progress and outcomes. Assist in the development of grant proposals and fundraising initiatives to secure necessary funding for projects and operational needs. Ensure compliance with organizational policies, legal requirements, and donor guidelines throughout project execution. Proactively identify and address any issues that arise. Encourage and facilitate collaborative programming and projects among the JJK Foundation, UIUC, Danforth, and Lansdowne UP collaborators. Facilitate effective communication and collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, including donors, partners, and community members, to build strong relationships and support for initiatives. Provide visionary leadership for the Food, Agriculture, and Nutrition Innovation Center, setting strategic goals and objectives to advance the center's mission. Implement evaluation frameworks to assess program effectiveness, compile reports, and communicate progress and outcomes to stakeholders. Foster an environment of innovation, encouraging new ideas and approaches in food, agriculture, and nutrition to address community needs. Develop and implement communication strategies to raise awareness of the center's initiatives and impact within the community and beyond. Understand, participate in and help implement the JJK Way and Jackie Joyner-Kersee's Winning in Life into all programs. Other duties as assigned.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE: Bachelor's degree and three years' experience in a relevant field (e.g., project management, business/public administration, nonprofit management, ag/science education) required. Experience with academia, research institutions, and government agencies preferred. Candidates familiar with the East St. Louis community and passionate about food access, food systems, and social equity are preferred. Proven experience in project management tools and software, preferably within the nonprofit sector.
SKILLS & ABILITIES:• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.• Experience in grant writing and reporting• Ability to work effectively independently and with diverse teams.• Strong interpersonal communications skills and ability to communicate and collaborate. • Solution-oriented, highly motivated self-starter