Manager, Center for Urban Smart Agriculture (Phoenix, AZ) (Extended Temporary)

This Manager, Center for Urban Smart Agriculture (Phoenix, AZ) (Extended Temporary) position is with University of Arizona in Phoenix, AZ. Management and Oversight: Manage multiple Extension and applied research projects from initiation through completion, ensuring alignment with program objectives, sponsor requirements, and organizational priorities. Monitor project budgets, schedules, deliverables, milestones, and reporting requirements to ensure successful and timely completion of grant-funded activities. Coordinate with the Center Director, affiliated faculty and staff, stakeholders, and funding agencies to support program implementation and achieve project goals. Prepare and present progress reports, presentations, publications, newsletters, and other project updates to internal and external stakeholders. Review technical documentation, purchasing requests, and required project records to ensure compliance with grant, sponsor, and university requirements. Facilitate project planning meetings and milestone reviews with project teams and stakeholders. Supervise Center staff and oversee work assignments, performance expectations, and resource utilization to support program objectives. Ensure Center operations, projects, and activities comply with grant obligations, university policies, and applicable regulatory requirements. Program Development and Strategic Initiatives: Support the development and submission of grant proposals, agreements, and other funding opportunities that advance the Center's mission and strategic goals. Collaborate with Center leadership, faculty, staff, and stakeholders to develop scopes of work, project plans, budgets, schedules, and resource requirements. Assist with the preparation and review of proposals and agreements to ensure technical accuracy, consistency, and sponsor compliance. Identify and pursue opportunities to expand the Center's Extension, applied research, and outreach portfolio through new partnerships and funding sources. Contribute to strategic planning efforts that strengthen and grow Center programs and services. Planning and Resource Management: Manage Center operations and activities across multiple grant-funded programs to ensure effective execution and achievement of project objectives. Track program outcomes, performance measures, and deliverables throughout the life cycle of assigned projects. Oversee Center assets, equipment, and inventory to ensure appropriate use, maintenance, and compliance with university and sponsor requirements. Direct the activities of Program Coordinators, student employees, and other assigned support staff to support project timelines, deliverables, and operational goals. Develop and maintain work plans, schedules, and resource allocation strategies that promote efficient operations and successful program outcomes. Evaluate operational processes and recommend improvements that enhance program effectiveness, efficiency, and service delivery. Knowledge, Skills Abilities (KSAs): Knowledge of the Cooperative Extension system and best practices for managing issue-driven programs and projects. Understanding of Arizona agricultural systems, with preference to familiarity with urban agriculture and small-scale or beginning farmer production systems. Ability to identify emerging opportunities and challenges in urban and smart agriculture. Demonstrated leadership, interpersonal, and supervisory skills. Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple complex projects independently and effectively. Expert skills with MS Office, including MS Project, Smartsheet, and other software.