Senior Project Manager

About AeroFarms  

Join AeroFarms, the global leader in vertical farming, as we pioneer the future of agriculture! Our new facility in Danville, Virginia, set to be the world's largest indoor vertical farm, is four times the size of our record-breaking farm. With a track record of innovation, including three consecutive years as the #1 spot in the Global Food Tech 500 list, we're revolutionizing how food is grown. 

We're seeking creative, motivated individuals to join our team of over 200 professionals. If you're passionate about sustainability, technology, and making a global impact, AeroFarms is the place for you. Enjoy competitive benefits like 401k enrolment, comprehensive insurance, and generous PTO. 

Watch our video to learn more and apply today to be part of this exciting journey! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPX7ZS0wqWI  

About the role 

The Senior Project Manager partners with key stakeholders to lead the delivery of high priority, cross-functional initiatives. In this position, you will drive project planning and execution management of critical AeroFarms projects, including new farms, commercial product introductions or changes, system implementations, or major process changes. This position is part the Business Transformation team and is central in supporting AeroFarms’ continued ramp-up.  

The successful candidate is comfortable wearing multiple hats and operates with equal comfort as project manager, functional consultant, and trusted advisor. This is a highly collaborative role will proactively work with key stakeholders and external partners in the delivery of key project outcomes that support AeroFarms’ mission. 

Responsibilities  

• Project manage high priority, cross-functional projects across AeroFarms – driving all phases from inception through delivery  

• Support the rollout and standardization of program and project management tools  

• Partner closely with Commercial teams and relevant stakeholders in the introduction of new or changes to existing products  

• Work closely key stakeholders to understand and prioritize requirements   

• Create required documentation of requirements and outputs for review and sign-off (e.g., project plans, requirements documents, etc.)  

• Own written and verbal status reporting for projects/programs under management   

• Act as a functional consultant by supporting project delivery through outside research, developing analyses, and aligning stakeholders on the path forward  

• Become the expert in the processes and technologies you are implementing  

• Establish and manage project budgets 

If you thrive in a dynamic, collaborative environment and are comfortable wearing multiple hats as a project manager, functional consultant, and trusted advisor, we encourage you to apply. Your proactive partnership with key stakeholders and external partners will be instrumental in delivering key project outcomes that support AeroFarms’ mission. If this sounds like a good fit for you, we look forward to receiving your application. 

Candidate requirements 

• 7-9 years of experience in consulting, strategy and operations, or related experience; experience at an early-stage or high-growth company a plus  

• Bachelor’s degree minimum  

• Experience in program and hands-on project management  

• Track record of working with technical project teams to build and manage plans (e.g., manufacturing equipment, software, IT)   

• Experience in commercial product change management and new product introduction  

• Ability to learn new processes and technologies quickly  

• Significant experience using project management and Microsoft Office Software, including Smartsheets, Excel, and PowerPoint  

• Experience leading complex, cross-functional projects involving system and process change  

• Experience with disciplined approaches for project planning/management and budgeting   

• Ability to perform and prioritize multiple tasks effectively with strong attention to detail  

• Very strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with stakeholders  

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, and able to tell effective, data-driven stories  

• Demonstrated proactive approach to problem-solving  

• Resourceful team player with the ability to be effective independently in a rapidly changing environment  

• Ability to see the bigger picture but dive into the details to become the “expert” in new technologies and processes  

You may also have:  

• Project management certification  

• Experience in industries that involving R&D projects, manufacturing, food, and/or agriculture  

• A passion for tinkering with technology and learning new things  

• Experience with using ERP systems, experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central / NAV a plus 

Physical and other job requirements 

Travel: Depending on the scope of the role, Ability to travel to farm sites during critical periods, which may include up to 40% travel during a month (e.g., major go-lives, etc.)   

Presentation: Delivering sales presentations and pitches to clients and stakeholders may involve standing for extended periods, engaging in active communication, and possibly using presentation equipment. 

Physical Ergonomics: While not typically strenuous, office-related tasks such as using computers, phones, and other office equipment require maintaining proper posture and ergonomics to prevent discomfort or strain. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee in order to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Must be able to lift to 30 lbs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Computer Skills: Significant experience in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word. Project planning software (Smartsheets, MS Project), SharePoint. Enterprise Resource Planning software, such as Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central / NAV  

The above job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of duties and standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as assigned by their supervisor. In accordance with organizational protocol, employees will at times be required to fill absences in the operation process that are equal to or lower than their positional hierarchy. Additionally, if an employee is absent, the role of the absent employee is to be completed by their immediate superior.