Pfuhl Announces Retirement

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The Minnesota Grocers Association announces that President Jamie Pfuhl has informed the Board of Directors of her intention to retire from her position on August 30, 2024. Pfuhl has served as the MGA’s President since 2006, starting her employment with the association in 1996. The MGA will continue to benefit from Pfuhl’s experience and perspective as she serves the organization while the Board of Directors seeks her replacement.
Read full press release.

We are seeking a Collaborative and Visionary Leader to be our President!
The Minnesota Grocers Association is seeking a full-time President to serve as its leader, advocate, and champion. This is an exempt, at-will position that reports to the Board of Directors and collaborates with the entire membership. The President provides direction and effective execution of the daily functions of a non-profit trade association.

MGA’s next President must have an aptitude for cooperation and collaboration between the members and the demeanor to work outside of the organization. Additionally, the position includes interaction with the media, policymakers, industry peers, and other business organizations. The President shall serve existing members and work to successfully recruit new members.

About MGA
The MGA is the only state trade association representing the food industry of Minnesota – from farm to fork and is over 125 years old. The membership represents hundreds of hometown grocers and convenience stores, many of whom are independent, multi-generational, and locally owned. There are over 300 members with more than 1,300 locations statewide, which includes food producers, manufacturers, brokers, and wholesaler members. The President will be expected to play a broad, collaborative, and visionary leadership role within our scope.

The MGA has six entities within its organizational structure. The President will have oversight and management responsibilities for all entities and the staff. They must have the ability to effectively communicate the positions of the industry, and stay current with industry trends, issues, and challenges. The President will actively seek opportunities to elevate and educate on the industry and its commitment to consumers, careers, and the communities they serve.

Pay and Benefits
The salary is commensurate with skills and experience and benefits package.

Location
The MGA is in St. Paul, MN and some travel throughout Minnesota and the U.S. will be required. A consistent office presence is important for this role.

Key Duties and Responsibilities
The President reports to the Board of Directors, specifically the Board Chair and Executive Committee. Responsibilities include:

  • Working with the Board of Directors of the MGA, Council, Foundation, Food Pac of MN, Minnesota Food Coalition, and Minnesota Marketplace Alcohol Alliance and for following all protocols as spelled out in the Articles of Incorporation and the By-Laws.
  • Supervisory authority for office staff of approximately 5 employees.
  • Developing and recommending an annual budget to the Board
    and accounting to the Board for results based on established expectations.
  • Identifying, planning, and prioritizing all strategies of the MGA and its affiliates, while maintaining efficient and effective internal operations.
  • Listening to and understanding the needs and expectations of a diverse membership, while navigating the legislative and regulatory environment at the local, state, and national levels.
  • Serving as the primary public spokesperson for and representing MGA at industry meetings, public hearings, conferences, and public events.
  • Managing lobbying efforts on behalf of MGA at the Minnesota Legislature, the Governor’s office, and the State’s Regulatory Agencies.
  • Overseeing, planning, and execution of annual and special events, including the annual conference, golf event, Legislative Day on Hill, Best Bagger, strategic planning event, annual luncheon, BOD reception, and additional MGA member networking opportunities.
  • Identifying prospective new members and effectively communicating the value and benefits of MGA membership.
  • Leading the development, execution, and monitoring of the MGA’s strategic plan.
  • Managing MGA’s Political Action Committee, the Independent Expenditure Committee, and all related activities including member tours, and election engagement. Work in coalition to achieve the industry’s objectives.
  • Overseeing fundraising efforts including the establishment and collection of membership dues, event sponsorship, and soliciting contributions to the Food Pac of MN and the Minnesota Food Coalition.
  • Collaborating with membership and educational platforms to advance the “Carts to Careers” program.
  • Overseeing all publications, social media, and industry PR initiatives – executing annual hunger campaign and Earth Day activities.
  • Researching and executing grant opportunities to advance the industry.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Our Ideal Candidate Will Possess

  • A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Association Management, Finance, Marketing, Political Science, or related fields, preferred.
  • A minimum of 7-10 years of business and/or government experience, preferably in an agriculturally related environment. Experience in association management is also a plus.
  • Excellent networking, communication, public relations, and leadership skills.
  • A solid understanding of the legislative and regulatory process.

To Apply
Please send a cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to mgaposition@gmail.com

The Minnesota Grocers Association is an equal-opportunity employer.