The Recorder – With interim director in place, Just Roots in Greenfield seeks long-term leader

GREENFIELD — With an interim executive director in place, Just Roots farm is undergoing a search for a long-term leader.

The advocacy organization and community farm went through a similar search process last summer following the departure of longtime Executive Director Jessica O’Neill. In its search for an interim director, Just Roots prioritized “candidates from a wide range of lived experience” and focused on “the importance of inclusion and equity skills,” a press release states.

Interim Executive Director Cathy Wirth, a longtime Massachusetts food system advocate, works remotely from her home in North Carolina. Now, the organization is seeking someone to fill the role more permanently.

Wirth said the organization is searching for candidates who are experienced nonprofit leaders or who have experience with the food and farming industry.

“Both are really appealing to us,” she said. “You can learn either side of the equation at Just Roots.”

Priority will be given to candidates who apply by April 25. Those interested can send a resume and cover letter to hiring@justroots.org and find more information at justroots.org/join-our-staff.

Just Roots will conduct interviews through May, Wirth said, with the goal of having a permanent director in place by July. Although the organization is looking for someone who can work in person in Greenfield at least once per week, the pandemic, Wirth said, changed what’s possible for remote work.

“The Just Roots executive director position is an incredible leadership opportunity for someone in Massachusetts who is interested in working both locally and statewide at the intersection of food systems and public health,” Wirth said in the press release. “The position provides the chance for someone to lead a grassroots organization at a time of great growth, to continue to scale a local food distribution model that has been built from the ground up by an incredible community and an unparalleled team, and to take the Just Roots home campus to the next level.”