Fast Facts

Seeking a Team Leader to oversee the Awards and Recognition Team for the National FFA Organization in Indianapolis, IN. This role involves strategic implementation and management of A&R programs while fostering a culture of teamwork and innovation.

Responsibilities: Lead, mentor, and manage the A&R team; design and improve award programs; collaborate cross-functionally; oversee budgets and project timelines; communicate with stakeholders.

Skills: Strong leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities; project management; budget management; ability to handle multiple priorities.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education or equivalent; 5 years of agricultural education experience, preferably with teaching; at least 3 years of supervisory experience.

Location: Indianapolis, IN, US

Compensation: Not provided by employer. Typical compensation ranges for this position are between $70,000 - $100,000.

Description

JOB SUMMARY:

The Team Leader for the Awards and Recognition (A&R) Team is responsible for leading the strategic implementation and ongoing improvement of National FFA Organization’s awards and recognition programs while providing day-to-day leadership and management for the A&R team. This role ensures that all programs align with the organization's mission, vision, and strategic priorities.

In addition to overseeing multiple programs and initiatives, this individual manages the workflow of the A&R team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation. The Team Leader is responsible for mentoring staff, guiding project planning and execution, and ensuring that goals are met on time and with excellence. This role works cross-functionally across the organization and with external partners to ensure programs reflect best practices, respond to stakeholder needs, and achieve maximum impact.

This role demands strong leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities, along with proven experience in budget management, cultivating industry partnerships, and effectively managing multiple priorities. As a key driver of organizational goals, the Team Leader plays a pivotal role in advancing the impact of national programs. 

Requirements

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND SKILLS:

Strategic Program Implementation & Oversight

• Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of A&R programs to ensure relevance, quality, and alignment with organizational goals.
• Apply agricultural education philosophy to ensure programs are educationally sound and impactful.
• Balance multiple program areas and timelines with attention to detail, quality standards, and stakeholder input.
• Monitor industry trends, educational standards, and emerging technologies to anticipate changes and recommend strategic direction for awards and recognition programs.

Team Leadership & Staff Management

• Provide direct supervision and mentorship to the A&R team, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.
• Delegate tasks effectively, set clear expectations, and support professional growth and accountability across the team.
• Lead regular team meetings and work planning processes to ensure alignment, progress, and efficiency.

Strategic Collaboration & Cross-Functional Leadership

• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to leverage expertise, build shared ownership, and drive innovation in programming.
• Partner with other departments (e.g., marketing, finance, IT, resource development) to ensure seamless execution and strategic alignment.

Stakeholder Engagement & Industry Relations

• Build and maintain relationships with state staff, teachers, sponsors, and industry representatives to inform programming and enhance support.
• Use stakeholder feedback to guide decision-making and ensure continuous improvement.

Project & Budget Management

• Oversee program budgets and timelines, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with organizational priorities.
• Track project milestones and adjust plans as needed to maintain progress and quality.
• Analyze program data, feedback, and outcome metrics to inform continuous improvement, measure impact, and support strategic reporting for internal and external stakeholders.

Communication & Representation

• Communicate program goals, updates, and outcomes clearly across audiences, including internal staff, stakeholders, and leadership.
• Serve as a thought partner to senior leadership by contributing insights and recommendations that shape national programming strategies and organizational goals.
• Represent the A&R team and FFA at conferences, stakeholder meetings, and public events as needed.

Technology & Innovation

• Utilize technology and data strategically to enhance programming, track results, and inform decisions.
• Adapt to new tools, systems, and emerging trends to maintain program excellence and relevance.

Other duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education or equivalent.
• 5 years of agricultural education experience, with teaching experience preferred.
• A minimum of three years of direct supervisory experience, including managing staff, setting goals, and conducting performance evaluations is preferred. 
• Curriculum/content development experience preferred.
• Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, organizational, and planning skills.
• Ability to handle complex tasks and implement multiple projects.
• Demonstrated experience leading a team, including assigning work, managing timelines, and supporting professional development.
• Strong collaboration and influence skills to navigate organizational relationships and generate consensus.
• Excellent project management skills with attention to detail and follow-through.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.