Director of Colorado Seed Programs

Colorado State University•Fort Collins, CO

51d•$85,000 - $120,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Colorado Seed Programs is responsible for the strategic leadership and operational management of the Colorado Seed Growers Association (CSGA), the Seed Technology Education Program (STEP) (https://agsci.colostate.edu/seeds/step-into-the-world-of-seeds), and the broader suite of seed-related programs at Colorado State University. This includes direct supervision of the managers of the Seed Certification Program, the Colorado Seed Testing Laboratory, and the Agronomy Foundation Seed Program. In collaboration with the CSGA Board of Directors, the Director will oversee all certification and financial activities of CSGA, ensuring alignment with the mission and standards of the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA). The Director will provide leadership and oversight for the Certification Manager, Field Inspector Manager, and guiding the formulation and implementation of policies that uphold the integrity and purpose of seed certification. In addition to field-based responsibilities, the Director will provide strategic direction, operational oversight, and programmatic engagement for both the Colorado Seed Testing Laboratory and the Agronomy Foundation Seed Laboratory. This includes supporting laboratory managers in setting performance goals, ensuring compliance with industry standards, fostering innovation in testing and seed quality assurance, and promoting continuous improvement in service delivery and stakeholder engagement. The Director will lead and train staff in conducting field inspections, evaluate inspection outcomes, and ensure timely and accurate reporting. The role also supports an active CSU Extension educational program through seminars, field days, and the development of written and digital resources for regional stakeholders. A key component of this role involves cultivating partnerships with the seed industry, commodity groups, and governmental agencies to enforce seed production standards, establish and refine certification procedures, and enhance customer service programs that promote satisfaction and trust. The Director will also champion initiatives that elevate the visibility and reputation of Colorado's seed programs, both regionally and nationally. Finally, the Director will provide leadership in advancing inclusive excellence within the seed industry and fostering a professional and inclusive working environment. This position encompasses seed certification for all crops in Colorado, excluding potatoes and watermelons.

Requirements

B.S. degree in an agricultural field or a closely related discipline
Demonstrated strong leadership skills with the ability to manage multiple programs, teams, and organizational partnerships
Proven supervisory experience, including staff development and performance evaluation
Excellent interpersonal and team-building skills
Strong written and verbal communication abilities, with experience presenting to diverse audiences and stakeholder groups
Proficiency in standard office software and digital communication tools
Willingness and ability to travel occasionally overnight (primarily within Colorado, with potential for interstate travel)
Must possess a valid driver's license or have access to a licensed driver by the start date

Nice To Haves

M.S. degree or equivalent in an agricultural field or a closely related discipline
Knowledge of and experience with seed industry practices, including seed certification, seed production, seed testing, and applied research
Familiarity with state and national seed laws and regulatory frameworks governing seed quality and certification standards
Demonstrated experience in business or financial management, including budgeting, reporting, and strategic planning
Proven ability to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and cooperation across academic, industry, and regulatory partners
Demonstrated commitment to advancing inclusive excellence through research, outreach, service, or program development that engages a broad range of stakeholders

Responsibilities

Strategic leadership
Operational management
Oversee certification and financial activities of CSGA
Provide leadership and oversight for the Certification Manager, Field Inspector Manager
Guide the formulation and implementation of policies that uphold the integrity and purpose of seed certification
Provide strategic direction, operational oversight, and programmatic engagement for both the Colorado Seed Testing Laboratory and the Agronomy Foundation Seed Laboratory
Support laboratory managers in setting performance goals
Ensure compliance with industry standards
Foster innovation in testing and seed quality assurance
Promote continuous improvement in service delivery and stakeholder engagement
Lead and train staff in conducting field inspections
Evaluate inspection outcomes
Ensure timely and accurate reporting
Supports an active CSU Extension educational program through seminars, field days, and the development of written and digital resources for regional stakeholders
Cultivating partnerships with the seed industry, commodity groups, and governmental agencies to enforce seed production standards, establish and refine certification procedures, and enhance customer service programs that promote satisfaction and trust
Champion initiatives that elevate the visibility and reputation of Colorado's seed programs, both regionally and nationally
Provide leadership in advancing inclusive excellence within the seed industry and fostering a professional and inclusive working environment
Seed certification for all crops in Colorado, excluding potatoes and watermelons