Job Description - Executive Director - Detroit Food Policy Council
The Detroit Food Policy Council (DFPC) has partnered with Mondo Unlimited to recruit its next Executive Director who will lead efforts to advance a more equitable, sustainable, and community-driven food system across Detroit. Operating at the intersection of community, government, and systems change, DFPC plays a unique role in shaping policy, coordinating stakeholders, and driving solutions to create a food-sovereign Detroit.
The Executive Director will lead the DFPC into its next chapter as the food system in Detroit continues to evolve and grow, with strategies that respond to immediate community needs while advancing long-term systems change. This includes navigating evolving public policy environments, strengthening coordination across sectors, and ensuring that community voice and data-informed decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Governance
Lead the development and implementation of DFPCâs strategic priorities, aligning policy, programs, and partnerships with mission and community needs
Partner with the Board of Directors and committee leadership to support governance and decision-making
Facilitate board and committee meetings, including preparation of agendas, materials, and reports
Strengthen systems for planning, accountability, and continuous improvement
Policy Leadership, Advocacy & Government Relations
Serve as a key advisor and collaborator with the City of Detroit, including City Council, Mayorâs Office, and relevant departments
Advance local, state, and federal food policy advocacy efforts aligned with DFPCâs mission focused on equity, access, and sovereignty
Monitor and respond to evolving public policy environments, including changes that impact all aspects of the food system
Represent DFPC in public forums, coalitions, and policy discussions
Food System Coordination & Community Impact
Align efforts across Detroit residents, government, nonprofit, and private sector stakeholders to strengthen Detroitâs food system
Coordinate cross-sector responses to disruptions in food access, including emergency and short-term needs
Engage and support grassroots, mutual aid, and community-led food initiatives
Advance approaches that promote dignity, reduce stigma, and center the lived experience of residents
Research, Data & Systems Change
Oversee development and use of food system data, reports, and metrics to inform decision-making
Translate research into actionable policy recommendations and strategies
Track progress and evaluate impact across initiatives and system-level outcomes
Ensure data and community insights are integrated into all aspects of the organizationâs work
Urban Agriculture & Food Economy Engagement
Support policy and partnerships related to urban agriculture, land use, and local food production
Engage growers, farmers, and food entrepreneurs as key stakeholders in the food system
Collaborate with partners to strengthen local food infrastructure and access
Fund Development & Sustainability
Develop and execute a diversified fundraising strategy, including grants, public funding, and philanthropic partnerships
Oversee grant writing, reporting, and compliance
Cultivate and steward relationships with funders and partners
Ensure long-term financial sustainability aligned with mission and strategic priorities
Financial & Operational Management
Oversee budgeting, financial reporting, and fiscal management in partnership with the Board
Ensure strong internal systems, policies, and organizational infrastructure
Manage day-to-day operations and organizational administration
Supervise and support staff, fostering a collaborative and mission-driven culture
Communications & Public Leadership
Serve as the primary spokesperson and public representative of DFPC
Communicate complex food system and policy issues in clear, accessible ways
Oversee messaging, outreach, and public engagement
Position DFPC as a trusted voice within Detroitâs food system and policy landscape
Qualifications
Minimum of five years of leadership experience in nonprofit, public policy, community development, or a related field
Experience working with government entities, coalitions, or cross-sector initiatives
Strong understanding of food system, food policy, public health, or urban agriculture (preferred)
Experience with fundraising, grant management, and donor engagement
Financial management experience, including budgeting and reporting
Excellent communication, facilitation, and relationship-building skills
Preferred Attributes
Deep commitment to food equity, justice, and sovereignty through community-centered work
Strategic thinker able to balance immediate needs with long-term systems change
Skilled convener and coalition-builder
Data-informed and systems-oriented leader
Demonstrated ability to work effectively across culturally diverse communities and stakeholder groups
Multilingual abilities a plus, particularly Spanish and/or Arabic
Compensation & Structure
Salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience
Flexible work schedule, generous PTO, and paid holidays
Full-time hybrid position
Reports to the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors
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