General Manager - Dairy Farmers of Nova Scotia

General Manager

Dairy Farmers of Nova Scotia

Truro, Nova Scotia | Salary range $130,000–$150,000 annually

Overview

Dairy Farmers of Nova Scotia (DFNS) seeks a seasoned, approachable leader to help shape the future of dairy through close partnerships with producers, an elected Board and industry partners.

Based in Truro, this producer-funded organization represents 189 dairy producers and administers milk purchasing, sales and transportation, producer and transporter licensing, and production quotas, with delegated regulatory responsibilities. Its members produce over 220 million litres annually, with a farm gate value of $256 million.

About the Role

Reporting to the Board, you will lead strategy and day-to-day operations, financial management, regulatory oversight and industry relations. You will develop an engaged team of six full-time employees, supported by contract resources, while strengthening culture and member relationships.

Key priorities include advancing Atlantic dairy processing capacity, supporting high standards of milk quality and animal care, and engaging the next generation of dairy consumers. Success requires listening, building trust and exercising sound judgment while upholding requirements and processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Board and committees with clear analysis, practical recommendations and timely reporting; translate strategy into operational plans and results.
• Lead budgeting, financial reporting and controls, monitor revenues and expenses, and ensure responsible stewardship of organizational resources.
• Coach and develop staff, clarify roles and expectations, and oversee performance, compensation and human resource practices that support a positive culture.
• Oversee regulatory administration and enforcement; guide amendments through the Board, advisory committees and Natural Products Marketing Council, and ensure compliance with applicable legislation.
• Engage producers through responsive communication and consultation, navigate differing perspectives, and apply regulatory requirements and established processes consistently.
• Build relationships with government, processors, regulators and provincial and national dairy organizations; collaborate across the Maritimes on consistent procedures and represent DFNS at committees and industry forums.
• Advance processing capacity, quality improvements and animal care with partners, and oversee education, promotion and public relations to strengthen consumer engagement and market development.

What You Bring

• Five years of progressive leadership experience in an environment with diverse stakeholders, including accountability for people, finances and organizational performance.
• Post-secondary education in Business Administration, Economics or a related field of study.
• Experience working with an elected Board and within a regulated environment, with sound governance judgment and the ability to turn strategic priorities into action.
• Strong budgeting, financial management and business planning skills, supported by experience developing and implementing strategic and operational plans.
• An approachable, trustworthy leadership style grounded in integrity, with a strong ability to communicate comfortably with various audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to motivate and develop teams, strengthen culture and guide change through clear expectations, collaboration and effective communication.
• Knowledge of the dairy industry, commodity boards or natural products is an asset, together with a strong commitment to supporting Nova Scotia’s dairy sector.

Why Dairy Farmers of Nova Scotia

This role offers the opportunity to influence the direction of a provincial industry while staying connected to the people who sustain it. You will work closely with the Board, develop a capable team and build regional and national relationships that help move industry priorities forward. For a leader who enjoys both setting direction and working through practical challenges, DFNS offers meaningful responsibility and the opportunity to make a lasting contribution.

To learn more about Dairy Farmers of Nova Scotia, please visit: https://www.dfns.ca/

How to Apply

Please submit your resume online by clicking “Apply.” For more information, contact Greg Dickie confidentially at [email protected]. If you need accommodation during the selection process, please let us know.

We believe in employment equity, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds. We encourage applications from the following under-represented groups to self-identify in their resume or cover letter: Indigenous persons, racially visible persons, persons with a disability, women, and persons of a minority sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

Facet is a recruitment firm with an unshakeable belief that change is a good thing. People are not only our purpose, they are also our passion. Facet was created to recruit talented, established professionals who aspire to lead organizations. We are inspired by these individuals and believe they are at the core of building purpose-driven, dynamic, and forward-thinking workplaces.