About Olds College of Agriculture & Technology

Founded in 1913, Olds College of Agriculture & Technology has been offering high quality hands-on education for over a century. Through our core programming including continuing education, online and blended programming, we provide accessible educational opportunities within Alberta and beyond. We are passionate about the Agriculture industry. Through our applied research and integrated learning, we are proud to be Canada’s Smart Agriculture College, specializing in agriculture, agrifood, horticulture, land and environmental stewardship. We work closely with industry to advance and adapt our programming to ensure our graduates have the skills to succeed.

The Opportunity - Business Development Partner (temporary, full-time)

The Technology Access Centre for Livestock Production (TACLP) is focused on meeting the needs of the Canadian livestock industry by providing access to new technologies that improve production efficiencies, industry sustainability and producer viability. Research and innovation services are provided in support of feed efficiency and animal health, including feed efficiency testing, carcass analysis, behavioral assessment, early disease detection, genomics and breed selection. The Centre primarily serves cattle and sheep producers by providing technology demonstration and tools to help accelerate the adoption of innovation in the livestock sector.

The Business Development Partner is a key member of the team in the TACLP at Olds College. This position is responsible for sharing livestock production technology information and services with producers, developing communication and marketing activities for the TACLP, and leading in the preparation of grant proposals, field days and presentations. The Business Development Specialist will also assist with hands-on applied research projects in the area of livestock technologies and related services.

The Business Development Partner will work closely with the TACLP Manager of Entrepreneurship and Innovation and the team at the Olds College Centre for Innovation, the Development department, faculty experts, Olds College Farm staff, and members of the National Meat Training Centre at Olds College. The Business Development Specialist is accountable to the research policies and procedures of Olds College.

Key Job Functions:

Tech Transfer & Outreach

• Create extension reports or materials and facilitate their distribution in meaningful ways to support TACLP researchers (e.g. podcasts, printed resources, webinars, etc.)
• Understand and use the technology being showcased at the TACLP
• Leads the organization of tours, training, field days, workshops to disseminate information, to raise the profile of the TACLP and to showcase new technology
• Work with the Communications & Marketing team to update TACLP website and marketing materials
• Organize and assist with the delivery of producer and industry site visits as well as on-campus events
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships within industry, government and producer stakeholders
• Encourage producers to participate in technology research and trials and to adopt new technology
• Provide advisory to the Business Development Coordinator and Director when reviewing and maintaining the TACLP Strategic Plan

Proposal Writing & Funding

• Identify grants and other sources of funding, including fee-for-service clients, as well as potential industry contributors/collaborators for TACLP projects and events
• Coordinate proposal and grant writing as requested

Strategic Advisory & Applied Research Support

• Assist with meeting livestock and meat science research goals
• Assist with hands-on applied research with livestock, as required

Education/Experience/Skills/Knowledge Required:

• A post-secondary degree in marketing, communications, agriculture, ag tech, business, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
• At least 5 years of related experience
• Familiarity with livestock industry and technologies and experience working with livestock
• Strong network of contacts within the livestock industry would be an asset
• Proven capability for collaborative partnership development and teamwork
• Effective communication skills
• Organized and detail-oriented with the ability to work under minimal supervision
• Computer literate and proficient with Microsoft Office and Google applications
• Strong dedication to promoting inclusivity and diversity. This includes actively seeking out and valuing diverse perspectives, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for individuals of all backgrounds, and continuously striving to create a culture of respect and understanding.

Conditions of Employment:

• Travel to various committee meetings, networks, or client sites, and may be required to work outside of regular College operating hours
• Current Criminal Reference check with a Vulnerable Sector Check that is free of any offenses.
• Must respect and actively promote health and safety policies.

Open until suitable candidate found.

We thank all individuals for their interest in this position. We appreciate the time involved for candidates in the application process. At this time, please note only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Olds College is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage applications from women, Indigenous Peoples, racialized persons, persons with disabilities and persons of any sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.