Agribusiness Partnership Specialist

The Nature Conservancy; Iowa (LA); Remote; USD 63,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Join The Nature Conservancy as an Agribusiness Partnership Specialist in a 2-year remote position focused on promoting regenerative agriculture within the Upper Mississippi River Foodscape. This role involves building relationships with key stakeholders, managing contracts, and ensuring project success through collaboration and communication. Ideal candidates will have a background in conservation or related fields, strong negotiation skills, and a passion for sustainable food systems.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

401(k) with 8% match

Flexible work environment

Paid time off

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience or equivalent in relevant fields.
• Experience engaging with agribusiness retailers or farmer advisors.
• Knowledge of regenerative agriculture practices.

Responsibilities

• Build and strengthen relationships with stakeholders to promote regenerative agriculture.
• Manage contracts, budgets, and reports.
• Monitor progress and communicate with stakeholders.

Skills

Relationship-building

Communication

Creative problem-solving

Negotiation skills

Education

BA/BS in conservation, agronomy, sustainability, or related field

Job description

This is a 2-year remote position (must be located within the Upper Mississippi River Foodscape, with a strong preference for northeast Iowa), with private funding secured through June 2027 (with possibility for renewal). The role involves travel up to 50%, mainly within NE Iowa, SE Minnesota, SW Wisconsin, and NW Illinois, with occasional out-of-state meetings.

WHO WE ARE

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to environmental challenges to ensure that people and nature thrive. Our values include a commitment to diversity and respect for communities and cultures. We offer a rewarding mission, career development, and flexible schedules. Learn more through our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube or visit Glassdoor.

We aim to foster an inclusive work environment where employees feel a sense of belonging and value their contributions. We believe a diverse staff reflecting our communities is essential to our mission. We consider life experience alongside professional requirements in our recruitment process. We invite you to apply and be part of our mission.

WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER

Transforming to a regenerative food system—supporting resilient farms, supply chains, and agricultural communities—requires collaboration among all stakeholders, including farmers, retailers, cooperatives, and agribusinesses. These 'farmer advisors' are trusted sources influencing farm management decisions. Engaging them is crucial for scaling regenerative practices and meeting water quality and climate goals.

The Agribusiness Partnership Specialist will build and strengthen relationships with these stakeholders in the Upper Mississippi River Foodscape to promote regenerative agriculture, develop new business models, and support incentive programs.

Working within a multidisciplinary team and with external partners, the Specialist will advance project activities, develop performance indicators, monitor progress, communicate with stakeholders, and ensure organizational standards. Responsibilities include managing contracts, budgets, reports, meetings, and serving as a liaison.

Success requires attention to detail, organization, communication skills, and knowledge of agriculture, farmer networks, incentives, and technical assistance.

This role is a 2-year remote position, primarily within the specified region, with travel up to 50%. Funding is secured through June 2027, with potential renewal.

WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOU

If you're passionate about conservation, climate change, and sustainable food systems, join TNC as an Agribusiness Partnership Specialist. Strong relationship-building, communication, self-motivation, creative problem-solving, and influence without authority are key skills. Apply today!

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

• BA/BS in conservation, agronomy, sustainability, or related field, with 5+ years of experience or equivalent.
• Experience engaging with agribusiness retailers or farmer advisors.
• Negotiation skills for complex agreements.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Knowledge of regenerative agriculture practices.
• Experience collaborating with non-profits, farmers, agribusiness, or government agencies.
• Valid driver’s license.

WHAT WE BRING

Since 1951, TNC has grown from a small non-profit to a global conservation leader, supported by over 1 million members and 400+ scientists. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health care, 401(k) with 8% match, parental leave, paid time off, insurance, and well-being programs. Our flexible work environment supports employee health and work-life balance.

AUTO SAFETY POLICY

This position requires a valid driver’s license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program.

Employees may not drive TNC-owned/leased, rental, or personal vehicles for work if classified as high risk. For details, visit our Auto Safety FAQ. Employment is contingent upon completing a Vehicle Use Agreement and motor vehicle record review.

SALARY INFORMATION

The starting salary range is approximately $63,000 - $72,000 annually, based on location, qualifications, and experience. Salary ranges outside the USA will vary by local labor markets. Geographic location will be confirmed during recruitment.

Our hiring process is rolling; we review applications as received and may close the posting once a strong candidate pool is identified. We encourage early applications.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and inclusion, reflecting the communities we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, beliefs, and identities.

Applicants must meet background screening requirements. For military experience, use our U.S. Military Skills Translator. We provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities; contact [e-mail] with 'Request for Accommodation' in the subject line.

We offer competitive pay and strive for equitable salaries across locations, with specific ranges provided upon request during the interview process.