Chief Executive Officer

ABOUT THE CEO POSITION

Lead one of the most dynamic and rapidly growing sectors in agriculture as CEO of American Pistachio Growers, a national nonprofit trade association representing more than 830 growers across California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of a globally recognized specialty crop industry while driving strategy, market expansion, and member value in a mission-driven environment funded by and accountable to the industry it serves. Based in California’s Central Valley, you’ll partner closely with a grower-led Board of Directors and industry leaders to elevate global demand, influence policy, and strengthen the voice of American pistachio growers. You’ll oversee a $20M organization, lead a high-performing team, and serve as the primary ambassador for the industry across domestic and international markets. We’re seeking a strategic, relationship-driven executive who thrives at the intersection of business, advocacy, and agriculture and is ready to leave a lasting mark on an essential global food sector.  The CEO will be a highly strategic, innovative, and visionary individual with extraordinary communication and management skills, as well as demonstrated leadership qualities.

JOB DESCRIPTION

The CEO is responsible for the successful day-to-day management, growth, and sustainability of APG, a California nonprofit mutual benefit corporation with 501(c)(6) tax exempt status. The CEO drives membership growth by regularly meeting with grower members, and oversees the promotion, research, advertising, member outreach, and advocacy that strengthens the pistachio industry’s position in the marketplace. In line with the direction and goals set by the Board of Directors, the CEO determines business strategies, sets the organization’s budget priorities, leads staff, and ensures the reputation and integrity of APG and its grower members. The CEO oversees compliance with all legal, regulatory and ethical requirements applicable to APG, and prepares and recommends policies and procedures relative to APG operations and staff, with the approval of the Board when requested or required.  

Salary Range: $300,000 to $500,000 per year depending on skills, nonprofit management experience, and ag industry experience. Generous benefits package.  

Priorities: (see link to full Job Description for full list of responsibilities)

• Serve as the primary spokesperson and ambassador for APG.
• Focus on membership development, growth, and retention.
• Develop/oversee plans and strategies to expand markets and grow consumer demand.
• Promote a culture that reflects APG values, encourages excellent performance, and rewards productivity. 
• Recruit, motivate, manage, and retain talented and dedicated professional staff. 
• In collaboration with the Board of Directors, develop and implement strategic priorities and annual budget.
• Develop a proposed annual budget for Board approval based on the Board’s goals and APG’s resources.
• Coordinate the annual financial audit and the implementation of relevant financial controls and procedures.
• Oversee V.P., Global Marketing programs and activities, including comprehensive marketing programs including advertising, promotions, foodservice marketing, public relations, social media, nutrition research, market and consumer research, and issues management to shape a favorable product image with consumers.
•  Provide for effective representation at the federal, state, and local levels with appropriate agencies and elected officials.
• Prepare testimony and advocate directly on behalf of industry before various governmental bodies.
• Develop relationships with other industry association leaders and members to accomplish common goals on legislative and regulatory issues.

EDUCATION & SPECIFIC QUALIFICATIONS

Required: 

• Undergraduate degree.
• Experience with nonprofit organizations, including working with a board of directors.
• Minimum of 5 years management experience. 
• Ability to engage in significant regional, domestic, and international travel.
• Valid driver’s license.

Recommended/Preferred:

• Graduate degree.
• Experience in agriculture or ag-adjacent industry.
• Direct experience with media and public relations.
• Direct knowledge of financial and accounting principles and procedures with the ability to develop financial forecasts and effectively manage budgets.
• Ability to anticipate and solve problems and leverage opportunities.