ABOUT US

The Bee Industry Council of WA is the peak body working to support the WA bee industry, producers and associated organisations in development through leadership, advocacy and active participation in policy, planning and awareness.

ROLE SUMMARY

Under general guidance and utilising independent judgement, the Industry Development and Project Officer (IDPO) conducts extension and industry development for the WA bee industry. The IDPO contributes to the economic development of the WA bee industry by:

• Delivery of key industry development projects
• Undertaking and brokering research, innovation, education and training for industry participants
• Delivering programs, communications and engagement to improve biosecurity risk, management, response and control of declared pests and diseases
• Undertaking stakeholder and industry engagement on behalf of the WA bee industry

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The key responsibilities of the role include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Bee industry communication & engagement: Develop and maintain a high level of engagement with the WA bee industry through effective written communications including eNewsletters and trade magazine articles. Maintain awareness of emerging issues for WA bee industry through strong two-way communication with industry participants.
• Extension and adoption: Develop and maintain up-to-date knowledge and awareness of research, findings, issues and trends relevant to bee industry. Promote new technology and systems which may enable bee industry participants to improve profitability, efficiency and effectiveness. Prepare and disseminate the results of research through reports, articles, broadcasts and field days to build the capacity and capability of the WA bee industry and drive profitability and sustainability. Arrange travel, venues, catering and equipment for meetings, conferences and field days as required. Support the development of new initiatives and assist with preparation of project proposals to funding bodies. Help protect the WA bee industry by developing and delivering programs to help control declared pest and disease.
• Stakeholder engagement & beekeeper representation: Build and maintain a strong reputation among government, NGO and adjacent industry stakeholders as an industry with skilled producers. Maintain and promote effective working relationships with stakeholders, agri-industry groups and other agricultural organisations and agribusinesses within WA and nationally. Actively work with government stakeholders to represent the WA bee industry and influence policy on research, innovation, education, training and biosecurity. Represent WA bee industry interests in biosecurity and other forums.
• Other: Develop and deliver an annual work program of projects and activities to underpin the industry strategic plan. Prepare project reports. Report to BICWA on role activities and attend to general correspondence. Apply risk management to all business processes. Apply relevant safety procedures/guidelines and equal opportunity principles to work performance. Apply the guidelines and principles of the BICWA Code of Conduct. Undertake other duties as directed.

WORK RELATED REQUIREMENTS

Essential criteria

• Sound knowledge of the agri-food, beekeeping industry or sustainable production systems, and proven practices of extension and industry development
• Comfort around bees and beekeeping processes (but do not need to be a beekeeper)
• Well-developed communication skills, both verbal and written, including the ability to consult, advise and convey information to stakeholders
• Sound skills in identifying trends and issues and making recommendations that contribute towards ongoing improvement. Ability to establish clear plans and timeframes, evaluate performance, identify need for change, determine action and see tasks and projects through to completion
• Well-developed conceptual and analytical skills including the ability to provide solutions to challenging issues and problems
• An adaptable and motivated self-starter with strong time management and organisational skills
• Proven ability to engage constructively and collaboratively with industry representatives, business owners and government bodies

Desirable criteria

• Possession of a tertiary qualification in Agricultural Science, Agribusiness, Business or related discipline
• Demonstrated ability to lead/deliver extension and adoption activities
• Qualifications and/or demonstrated ability to deliver projects on time, within budget

Special requirements/equipment

• An acceptable National Police Certificate (police clearance) is required. If not currently held, must be acquired prior to commencement at applicant’s expense
• A current, valid Australian driver’s licence, C-class or higher
• Preparedness to work flexible hours outside the scope of normal business hours from time to time (early mornings, evenings or weekends)
• Ability to travel to regional areas and comfort with long distance driving (vehicle will be provided for travel)
• The contract of employment specifies terms and conditions relating to this position.

WHAT WE OFFER

• A chance to build something from the ground up - this is the first time we have offered this role. Let’s build something great together
• While desk hours will predominantly be worked from home, there will be plenty of time spent out and about engaging with industry and the team
• We offer flexible hours and a supportive culture. Let's design a schedule that works for the both of us
• We are a passionate and driven team and look forward to sharing our knowledge, enthusiasm and supportive culture
• Your talent and passion matter most. If you don’t exactly fit the description but believe you have what it takes, get in touch for a chat

More information can be found at bicwa.com.au

How to apply:

If you believe we are the right fit for you, and you are the right fit for the role, please email a brief cover letter and resume to: chair@bicwa.com.au.