A conversation about workers, communities and social justice

University of Wisconsin-Madison Seeks Cooperative Development Specialist

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Degree and area of specialization:

Bachelor’s degree in a related field required. Master’s degree preferred.

Minimum number of years and type of relevant work experience:

– Minimum 2 years of experience in community outreach, economic development, and/or working with diverse stakeholders.
– Knowledge of business planning, project management, business operating and financing practices, organization structure, and business development practices.
– Knowledge of cooperatives preferred.
– High degree of competency using Excel, Word, and WordPress or equivalent
– Excellent communication skills, including experience with multi-media channels and communication with diverse stakeholders
– Fluency in a language in addition to English preferred.
Position Summary:
This position will support the outreach program of the University of Wisconsin Center for Cooperatives, with a focus on cooperative development. Responsibilities will include assisting start-up cooperative groups, providing education to new and established cooperatives, supporting grant preparation, and providing input on Center outreach activities. The successful candidate will be part of a team that supports new cooperative businesses through technical assistance, education and outreach services.

Principal duties:

Cooperative development: (30%)
– Assess and respond to requests for assistance
– Provide guidance and facilitation to groups interested in starting new cooperatives or converting existing businesses to cooperative ownership.
– Develop processes to assess community needs and connect them with appropriate resources. Work directly with community organizations to build internal co-op development capacity and coordinate technical assistance services.

Outreach and Education: (50%)
– Work with UWCC staff and partners to develop and deliver curriculum and educational programming on start-up worker cooperatives and conversions.
– Assist with the development and implementation of branding, marketing and communications plans. Manage websites and social media presence, including design and content. Create and manage contact databases and email-based marketing.
– Develop a project management system to guide the successful implementation of program goals, including a timeline and tracking system for monitoring task completion and results. Assist with meeting planning and communication. Maintain contact databases and partner information.

Grant support: (20%)
– Assist with implementing small grant programs for community-based organizations and cooperative start-up groups.
– Support the preparation of grant proposals and progress reports to funders.
Additional Information
– The hire shall be given an initial 1 year fixed term terminal appointment. This position may be extended up to a 24 month fixed term terminal appointment or may be converted to a renewable appointment depending on program needs and funding availability.
A criminal background check will be conducted prior to hiring.
A period of evaluation will be required
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More information and application instructions here.