Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer - New York Apple Association

About the New York Apple Association

The New York Apple Association (NYAA) represents more than 500 apple growers across New York State and serves as the official marketing and promotion organization for New York apples. Rooted in a proud agricultural tradition and supported by a diverse network of growers, shippers, and industry partners, the Association works to advance the long-term competitiveness of New York apples in local, national, and global markets.

Through strategic market development and coordinated promotional efforts, NYAA strengthens demand while ensuring that growers’ interests are effectively represented across the supply chain.

As the Association enters a new chapter of leadership, NYAA seeks a Chief Executive Officer who can provide steady direction, buildalignment with stakeholders, and position the organization for sustainabilityand positive impact in the years ahead.

How to Apply

Qualified candidates are invited to submit applicationmaterials: Cover letter, resume and optional work samples tocarriewafler@gmail.com

Applicants should provide the materials outlined below toassist the committee in evaluating qualifications and overall fit for the role.

• Resume outlining relevant professional experience and leadership roles.
• Cover  Letter describing your interest in the position and how your background and experience align with the responsibilities and priorities  of the New York Apple Association.
• Optional  Work Samples or Portfolio, such as examples of marketing campaigns, presentations, publications, or other work relevant to the responsibilities of the position.

***Only application materials emailed to Carrie Wafler(carriewafler@gmail.com) will be considered. ***

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until theposition is filled.

Position Summary

The CEO serves as the chief executive and principalspokesperson of the New York Apple Association. Reporting directly to thePresident and Board of Directors, the CEO is responsible for advancing theAssociation’s strategic direction, ensuring effective organizationalleadership, and representing the collective interests of New York apple growersacross the marketplace.

We seek a dynamic leader capable of building alignmentacross a diverse industry while guiding the Association through evolving marketdynamics and stakeholder expectations. The CEO must translate the vision intoaction to increase apple consumption and help New York apples remaincompetitive and well-positioned for long-term growth in both domestic andinternational markets.

The position demands strategic perspective, disciplinedexecution, and dynamic communication, ensuring that promotional initiatives areeffective, contract obligations are met, and the Association remains aligned,responsive, and forward-looking.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Act as the primary public-facing representative for NYAA and the New York Apple Industry.
• Lead development and execution of NYAA’s annual marketing and operating plans.
• Provide clear strategic direction aligned with the Association’s long-term goals.
• Identify opportunities to strengthen the industry’s competitive position in the market.

Marketing & Industry Promotion

• Development and execution of domestic and international marketing initiatives designed to strengthen demand for apples in collaboration with shippers.
• Oversee communications strategy, including grower communications, public messaging, press engagement, and annual reporting.
• Evaluate promotional programs and industry events to ensure measurable impact and continuous improvement.
• Coordinate with BOD to align campaign strategy with industry priorities.
• Oversee communication of industry data, market updates, and seasonal information  to stakeholders.

Stakeholder Engagement & Relationship Building

• Serve as the liaison between industry partners.
• Maintain a strong understanding of government policy and regulatory developments affecting the fresh produce and apple industries.
• Represent the Association at grower meetings, industry conferences, trade events,and public forums.
• Facilitate public meetings, Board meetings, committee sessions, and industry working groups.
• Strengthen relationships across geographic regions and supply chain segments to promote unity and shared purpose.
• Foster improved grower outreach and communication statewide.

Organizational & Staff Leadership

• Experienced organizational leader who can build, manage, and inspire a team while maintaining accountability, clear communication, and a results-oriented culture.
• Lead and develop Association staff, fostering a culture of accountability,collaboration, and professionalism.
• Work in strong partnership with the Board of Directors and Executive Committee to advance strategic priorities.
• Prepare Board materials and support governance processes in accordance with bylaws and best practices.

Financial & Operational Oversight

• Develop and manage the Association’s annual budget.
• Ensure responsible stewardship of marketing order funds and state funding resources.
• Maintain compliance with bylaws, regulatory requirements, and board governance standards.
• Lead a data-driven organization by establishing clear performance metrics and key  performance indicators (KPIs), evaluating program outcomes, and using  insights from industry data and market performance to guide strategic decision-making and resource allocation.
• Oversee grant development and administration when aligned with Association goals.

Industry Relations

• Work directly with state and federal agencies regarding marketing orders and the association’s compliance with state funding.
• Coordinate communications related to marketing order requirements and industry obligations.
• Monitor market developments and communicate implications to the Board and stakeholders.

Qualifications & Competencies

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• A  strong record of building and sustaining professional relationships across diverse stakeholder groups.
• Senior leadership experience in marketing, communications, governmental affairs, association, and association management.
• Strong communication and conflict-resolution skills, with the ability to navigate differing perspectives and build consensus among growers, shippers, retailers, and industry stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to lead marketing or promotional initiatives with measurable results.
• Experience  in agriculture, produce, or a related field is a plus.
• Experience managing organizational operations, staff performance, and multiple concurrent priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking, industry presentation, and direct-to-camera social media.
• Financial management and budget oversight experience.
• Strategic judgment and problem-solving capability.

Agricultural industry experience is beneficial; however,demonstrated executive leadership and marketing capability are essential.

Travel & Work Expectations

• Valid driver’s license required.
• Residence in, or willingness to relocate to, New York State.
• Position is based in the NYAA office in Fishers, NY, with regular in-office  presence expected.
• Regular statewide travel required; occasional national or international travel may also be required.
• Availability for evening and weekend commitments during peak industry events.
• May occasionally have to lift up to 40 lbs. for event and meeting materials.

Compensation & Benefits

The salary range for this position is $120,000 – $140,000,depending on experience and qualifications. NYAA offers a competitive benefitspackage, which may include health insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, paidtime off (PTO), and travel reimbursement.

NYAA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed tocreating an inclusive environment for all employees.

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Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.