Job Description

Job Overview

Western Fair District is seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to step into the role of Agri-Business Manager on a temporary basis to cover a maternity leave. This contract position will continue through November 2026.This exciting opportunity involves leading a variety of key agricultural events and initiatives, including the National Poultry Show, London Farm Show, and Western Fair livestock programming, while also supporting innovative agri-tech projects through Innovation Farms Ontario and the AgRobotics Working Group.

Key Responsibilities:

Agricultural Event Leadership

Lead the planning and execution of major ag events including the National Poultry Show, London Farm Show, and livestock displays at the Western Fair. Manage all aspects of event development: budgeting, logistics, exhibitor coordination, team leadership, and post-event evaluation. Collaborate cross-functionally with departments such as Marketing, Sales, Operations, and Security to ensure successful execution. Act as the on-site event lead during setup, event days, and teardown.
AgRobotics & Innovation Program Management

Lead the AgRobotics Working Group, fostering partnerships with producers, researchers, vendors, and funding partners. Budget & track finances for the AgRobotics Working Group and Innovation Farms Ontario, including ensuring reporting deadlines are met between each project Manage research projects and demonstration initiatives aimed at accelerating agri-tech adoption. Organize Knowledge Translation & Transfer (KTT) activities, industry demos, and student-focused programs. Oversee the development of the AgRobotics Lab at The Grove.
Systems & Technology

Gain an understanding for Ungerboeck event management software: training, troubleshooting, and system optimization.
Qualifications:

Post-secondary education in Agriculture, Event Management, or a related field. Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in agricultural events, programming, or innovation-focused projects. Strong understanding of Ontario's agri-food sector and emerging ag technologies. Strong skills in project management, communication, and stakeholder engagement. Experience with industry associations, research organizations, or public-sector partners is an asset. Ability to track time allocated between different projects and events, ensuring funding guidelines are met and timing is managed properly Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with Ungerboeck software preferred. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends during key events. Valid driver's license required..
A portion of this role's wage is funded through the AgRobotics Working Group and the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, as well as a portion through Innovation Farms Ontario, funded by FCC AgExpert. The applicant is required to manage time allocations between each project.

Job Types: Part-time, Fixed term contract, Casual

Contract length: 14 months

Pay: $65,000.00-$82,000.00 per year

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

Employee assistance program On-site parking
Schedule:

Holidays Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract

Benefits:

Company events Disability insurance On-site parking Vision care Wellness program
Schedule:

8 hour shift Day shift Monday to Friday Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person