Job Description

Agency Dept of Agriculture , Consumer Services
Division Ag Finance Authority
Job Classification Title Exec Dir Agric Finance Authority (NS)
Position Number 60012763
Grade FLATRATE
About Us
The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services provides services that promote and improve agriculture, agribusiness, and forests; protect consumers and businesses; and conserve farmland and natural resources for the prosperity of all North Carolinians. The Department employs approximately 2,000 employees.
Description of Work The North Carolina Agricultural Finance Authority (NCAFA) is seeking applicants for the executive director of the agency. This is a full-time, Exempt from the Human Resources Act position (EHRA) that reports directly to and serves at the pleasure of the Agricultural Finance Authority Board of Directors.
NCAFA is charged with providing credit for agriculture and agribusiness across the state. Since its inception, NCAFA has financed more than $111 million in farm and agribusiness loans and issued over $89 million in tax-exempt bonds for agricultural development and energy conservation. The agency's mission is to expand access to capital for North Carolina farmers and agribusinesses when local financing is not available on reasonable terms.
NCAFA evaluates creditworthiness, oversees appraisals, reviews eligibility for federal loan guarantees, and develops feasibility plans for funded projects. The agency also serves as the statewide point of contact for individuals and businesses seeking agricultural credit. For larger projects, NCAFA issues Agricultural Development Bonds to help grow agribusiness opportunities. The NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services provides HR and financial support services to the Authority.
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the Authority and provides leadership for all agency operations, programs, and strategic initiatives. Key responsibilities include:

• Administering the daily operations of the Authority and implementing policies set by the Board of Directors.
• Hiring, supervising, and directing agency staff in accordance with GS 122D.
• Managing loan and bond programs, including working with farmers, agribusinesses, and lenders to expand access to credit.
• Coordinating with federal agencies and private financial institutions to strengthen partnerships and maximize financing opportunities.
• Overseeing financial planning, budgeting, and reporting in compliance with state requirements.
• Advising and collaborating with the Board of Directors and state leaders to ensure alignment with agricultural policy priorities.
• Representing NCAFA in meetings with public boards, legislative committees, and industry stakeholders.
• Applying knowledge of agricultural commodity and livestock markets to assess feasibility and risk in financing decisions.
• Fostering teamwork among staff and partners to solve complex challenges and deliver on the agency's statewide mission.

This position works a normal 8:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday schedule. Exceptions to the schedule should be expected to accommodate out of the office meetings and travel. This position is subject to the State Ethics Act and certain disclosures are required.
Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences
Max Salary: $137,161
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• Effective management skills and the ability to plan and organize the workflow of others
• Ability to establish and maintain strong working relationships with elected officials, board members, department heads, subordinates, and co-workers
• Ability to analyze, interpret, recommend, and apply procedural guidelines of state and federal agencies
• Detailed knowledge of state government operations, including budget processes, legislative processes, and personnel policies
• Ability to work with federal agencies and private financial institutions to further the goals of the NCAFA

Minimum Education and Experience
Some state job postings say you can qualify by an "equivalent combination of education and experience." If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See the Education and Experience Equivalency Guide for details.
EEO Statement
The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.
Recruiter: Elizabeth Woodside
Recruiter Email:

Skills Required