Lead Specialist Opportunity: Ontario Beekeepers’ Association – Technology Transfer Program (TTP)
About Us:
Join a leading organization committed to the health and sustainability of Ontario’s beekeeping community! The Ontario Beekeepers’ Association (OBA) is searching for a dynamic Lead Specialist to take the reins of our Technology Transfer Program (TTP). This position offers a unique chance to make a lasting impact on the industry while spearheading innovative initiatives in research, knowledge transfer, and beekeeping education.
Position: Lead Specialist – Technology Transfer Program (TTP)
Location: Guelph Ontario, Canada
Job Description:
As the Lead Specialist of the TTP, you will be at the forefront of advancing research and knowledge transfer within the OBA. Reporting to the TTP Advisory Committee Chair and collaborating closely with the Board of Directors, your role will be pivotal in shaping and executing strategies to benefit OBA members, stakeholders, and Ontario’s beekeeping community. This role requires a visionary leader—someone who can look ahead, identify emerging needs, and work with the TTP Advisory Committee to craft and refine the long-term direction of the program. As a driver of innovation and community impact, you will be responsible for planning and executing meaningful programming that supports and uplifts the entire Ontario beekeeping sector.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership & Program Development:
● Provide visionary leadership by anticipating trends and setting the long-term direction of the TTP in collaboration with the Advisory Committee.
● Plan, execute, and continuously improve programming that benefits the Ontario beekeeping community.
● Manage, develop, and expand fee-for-service offerings, workshops, speaking engagements, and other educational initiatives that enhance beekeeper knowledge and resilience.
● Build the financial health of the TTP by assisting and managing budgets as well as developing funding proposals, fee for service, and other revenue streams that respond to the needs of the beekeeping sector as outlined in the TTPs most recent set of strategic priorities.
Research and Knowledge Transfer:
● Identify, develop, and manage research projects in collaboration with the TTP Advisory Committee and research stakeholders.
● Oversee project parameters, including trial design, scheduling, and administration as per funding agreements.
● Conduct field and laboratory work, collaborating directly with beekeepers to monitor honey bee colonies.
● Provide technical information to OBA members, media, and stakeholders through relevant articles and communication channels.
Administration and Management:
● Hire and supervise TTP staff and students.
● Identify, acquire, and manage funding sources, research grants, and operational funding for TTP projects.
● Manage OBA/TTP resources, including equipment, supplies, and bee yards.
● Collaborate in OBA/TTP’s financial and operational planning processes, adhering to an annual budget.
● Develop networks and relationships with stakeholders to further the strategic objectives of the TTP. Stakeholders will include beekeepers, other provincial TTPs, the Canadian Association of Professional Apiculturists, academic researchers, government, private sector, philanthropic, and not for profit organizations, etc.
Education:
● Bachelor of Science or higher degree with coursework in entomology, biology, animal husbandry, and/or agrifood or agriculture.
● Preferred coursework in apiculture, project management, training development, research planning, and financial management.
Experience:
● Previous experience in team building, project management, applied field research, and laboratory work.
● Experience in recruiting, selecting, training, and leading staff.
● Knowledge of Not-for-Profit organizational funding.
● Preferred experience in working with honey bees and stakeholders.
Knowledge and Skills:
● Thorough knowledge of leading a technical team, conducting field and laboratory research, and providing training in an agricultural or related field.
● Strong project management, organizational skills, and the ability to secure research grants.
● Ability to communicate complex scientific information to diverse audiences.
● Familiarity with the business of beekeeping, honey bee biology, and Not-for-Profit or other Board type organizations.
How to Apply:
If you are ready to lead with passion and expertise, please submit your application, including a CV or resume, to jobs@ontariobee.com. Join us in fostering a sustainable and thriving future for Ontario’s beekeeping community!
We sincerely thank all applicants but can only contact those selected for follow-up.
