Job Title: Director
Department/Agency: Department of Agriculture (DOA)
Closing Date: December 13, 2024
Type of Position: Political Appointee
Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the Public
Pay Grade and Salary Range: GS-18/$60,000 - $80,000 p.a.
Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com
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Submit a Cover Letter and Headshot - Include a personalized cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the role. Be sure to include a recent headshot photo.
Provide Professional References - Send a list of at least three professional references. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. You are welcome to include letters of reference if available.
General Description
The Director of the Department of Agriculture (DOA) of American Samoa is a senior executive responsible for leading, managing, and advancing the territory’s agricultural sector. The Director is responsible for formulating and implementing policies, programs, and strategies that promote sustainable agricultural development, enhance food security, foster regional trade, and support the local farming community. This leadership position requires oversight of multiple divisions, collaboration with local and regional stakeholders, and a focus on long-term agricultural growth, environmental stewardship, and economic development.
The Director will be tasked with ensuring that the department’s activities align with the overarching goals of the American Samoa Government (ASG) while also identifying and fostering opportunities for agricultural export, particularly within the Pacific region. The Director will also serve as the primary advisor to the Governor, Legislature, and other governmental entities on agricultural matters.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership and Vision:
Lead and manage the Department of Agriculture to ensure the fulfillment of its mission to foster sustainable agricultural practices, food security, and economic growth in American Samoa.
Develop and execute a comprehensive long-term strategic plan for the growth and diversification of agriculture in the territory, including policies to address climate change, land use, soil management, pest control, and sustainable farming practices.
Drive innovative agricultural practices, technologies, and methods to increase productivity and improve the sustainability of local agriculture.
Policy Development and Advocacy:
Formulate, propose, and advocate for agricultural policies that support the development of American Samoa's agricultural industry and address emerging needs such as food security, climate resilience, and economic opportunities.
Lead the development of regulatory frameworks related to agriculture, ensuring that they comply with both territorial and federal laws.
Represent the department in discussions with the Governor, Legislature, and external stakeholders to ensure that agricultural concerns are addressed in broader policy frameworks.
Divisional Oversight and Management:
Supervise and coordinate the activities of all divisions within the Department of Agriculture, ensuring efficient operations and alignment with departmental goals:
Administrative Division: Manage personnel, procurement processes, and budget administration, and coordinate events such as the annual agriculture fair.
Research & Production Division: Lead initiatives related to soil testing, crop and livestock management, and the implementation of federal agriculture programs.
Public Market Division: Oversee the operation of the public market, ensuring that local farmers and fishermen have access to sell their produce and goods to the community.
Manu’a Operations Division: Manage agricultural programs on the Manu’a Islands, focusing on crops and livestock development.
Extension Division: Promote agricultural education and provide technical assistance to farmers, including outreach to schools and communities.
Livestock Division: Ensure the health and safety of livestock, including inspections and certifications.
Financial and Resource Management:
Oversee the department's annual budget, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to support agricultural programs and initiatives.
Secure and manage funding from federal programs, grants, and private sector partnerships to support departmental projects.
Monitor and evaluate the financial performance of agricultural initiatives, ensuring accountability and effective use of public funds.
Stakeholder Engagement and Partnerships:
Build and maintain relationships with local farmers, agricultural cooperatives, community organizations, and other stakeholders to enhance collaboration and address shared agricultural priorities.
Foster strong partnerships with federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and other international agricultural bodies, to leverage resources and implement programs that benefit American Samoa.
Develop regional trade strategies to promote American Samoa’s agricultural products within the Pacific region and internationally. Lead negotiations with trade partners, importers, and other external stakeholders to expand market access for local produce.
Trade Development and Export Strategies:
Develop and implement regional trade and export strategies that increase the visibility and demand for American Samoa's agricultural products within the Pacific region and beyond.
Collaborate with regional agricultural stakeholders to strengthen trade relations, improve agricultural standards, and increase the volume of agricultural exports.
Explore opportunities for value-added agricultural products, including packaging, branding, and certification, to enhance marketability.
Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship:
Ensure that all departmental activities adhere to principles of environmental sustainability, including conservation practices, soil health, and resource management.
Integrate climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies into departmental policies, with a focus on reducing the environmental impact of agricultural activities.
Promote research into sustainable farming practices and the use of renewable resources in agriculture.
Community Outreach and Education:
Lead public relations efforts to educate the community on the importance of local agriculture, sustainable practices, and healthy eating.
Organize workshops, training sessions, and seminars for farmers, students, and the public to improve agricultural literacy and skills.
Ensure that programs are inclusive, culturally sensitive, and designed to meet the needs of diverse farming communities in American Samoa.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
In-depth Knowledge of Agriculture: Extensive understanding of agricultural practices, crop and livestock management, environmental sustainability, and resource conservation, especially in the Pacific Island context.
Leadership and Management: Strong leadership capabilities with experience managing large, multi-disciplinary teams in a government or private sector context.
Strategic Thinking: Ability to think critically and develop innovative solutions to challenges facing the agricultural sector, including food security, trade, and sustainability.
Policy and Regulatory Expertise: Expertise in policy development, government regulations, and best practices in agriculture, with a focus on compliance with local and federal laws.
Trade and Export Knowledge: Deep understanding of regional trade dynamics, export strategies, and international market opportunities for agricultural products.
Financial Acumen: Proficiency in managing budgets, securing funding, and resource allocation in the context of public sector programs.
Communication and Negotiation Skills: Excellent oral and written communication abilities, with the capability to negotiate and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and business partners.
Cultural Sensitivity: Understanding and respect for the cultural values and practices of the local communities in American Samoa.
Academic and Experience Requirements
Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agricultural Economics, Environmental Science, or a closely related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
Experience: Minimum of ten years of progressive experience in agricultural management, policy development, or a related field, with at least five years in a senior leadership or director-level position.
Licensing/Certification: Valid driver’s license required. Professional certifications in agricultural management or related fields are highly desirable.
Salary
The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.
Additional Information
For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com
*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.
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