ABOUT WESTERN HOG EXCHANGE

The Western Hog Exchange (WHE) is a non-profit organization held by hog producer share holders and directors. Since December 1996, Alberta has operated in an "Open Market" for all sales of hogs. The WHE was formed as a result of this change which is a departure from the way hogs were marketed in Alberta for the previous 30 years under the old single desk selling system.

The WHE operates all its services on a self-funded basis with no assistance from any other sources. Their object is to provide the best service that they can using a break-even strategy. The WHE prides itself in providing, on behalf of their producer partners, superior pricing strategies using the latest up to the minute North American pricing data. By using their producer database, they also negotiate the most beneficial grading grids that can benefit producers. The WHE utilizes their many years of experience to provide more financial returns to producers.

Another valuable service that WHE provides to their shareholders is a voluntary non-profit in-transit program. They know that transporting live animals safely can be difficult and this program provides reimbursement for problems that hogs may encounter from the time they leave the farm until they arrive at the plant destination. They provide this service at the lowest price per hog possible.

ABOUT THE GENERAL MANAGER

Reporting to the Chair, the General Manager is the key member of the executive team, providing strategic and operational leadership. The General Manager provides leadership and vision to the organization by assisting the WHE Board of Directors and the WHE staff with the development of long range and annual Board policy goals, and with effective evaluation reports the progress of these policy goals to the Board.

The General Manager oversees and is accountable for administration and planning, human resources management, project management, marketing, communications and public relations. This role also requires the performance of other sundry duties as required by the Chair of the Board of Directors including providing support and coverage for other management staff as may be required.

KEY LEADERSHIP ACCOUNTABILITIES

Administration and Planning

• Prepare comprehensive reports for the Board of Directors, including financial statements, operating notes, and forward pricing reports.
• Develop meeting agendas and coordinate logistics for Board and Committee meetings, ensuring all necessary information is available for effective decision-making.
• Serve as a key resource to the Board, legal counsel, auditors, and consultants, providing insights and recommendations on contentious or strategic issues.
• Lead the annual budgeting process, monitor financial performance, and identify areas for operational improvement.
• Organize and facilitate the Annual General Meeting, ensuring compliance with governance requirements.
• Represent WHE at political meetings and industry events, advocating for the interests of hog producers.
• Oversee the management and reporting of government-funded projects, ensuring due diligence and successful implementation.
• Participate actively in industry seminars, committees, and functions to maintain WHE’s visibility and influence.

Human Resource Management

• Design and maintain an organizational chart that aligns staffing with business needs, utilizing both direct employment and contract arrangements as appropriate.
• Develop clear job descriptions for all roles, ensuring employees understand their responsibilities and how they contribute to WHE’s success.
• Implement an annual performance review process for all staff, setting measurable objectives and identifying training or development needs.
• Recruit, onboard, and manage staff and external consultants, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Negotiate compensation, benefits, and annual cost-of-living adjustments in collaboration with the Board.
• Ensure employee benefit programs (pension, health, disability, dental) are competitive and regularly reviewed.
• Maintain accurate records for payroll, holidays, and HR documentation, supporting year-end audits and compliance.

Project Management

• Communicate Board policy directions to management and staff, ensuring alignment and administrative efficiency.
• Establish and monitor procedures for data integrity, including database backups, grading audits, and settlement systems.
• Oversee risk management programs and ensure the effective operation of WHE’s website and producer information systems.
• Maintain strong producer customer relations and ensure the financial health of related programs such as the In Transit Protection Program (ITPP) and APGI.
• Manage insurance coverage for directors and management, safeguarding organizational assets.
• Monitor accounts receivable and payable, ensuring financial controls and approved sign-offs are in place.
• Oversee office space and lease arrangements to support WHE’s operational needs.

Marketing, Communications and Public Relations

• Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote WHE’s services and enhance producer engagement.
• Ensure Directors receive timely and accurate market pricing statistics, including detailed breakdowns of producer pricing.
• Participate in the negotiation and oversight of new marketing agreements, maintaining strong relationships with industry processors.
• Secure annual bonds and ensure compliance with industry requirements.
• Oversee the flow of information to Directors, employees, stakeholders, and producer customers, maintaining high standards for accuracy and timeliness.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

The ideal candidate for General Manager is a self-starter and self-motivator with a proven track record of leading organizations, preferably within the livestock agriculture sector. Experience working with or understanding Hutterite colonies is highly valued, as is the ability to build relationships and navigate unique community dynamics. While post-secondary education is considered an asset, hands-on experience in managing and growing an organization like Western Hog Exchange is paramount. Candidates should demonstrate strong member service and promotional skills, with a background in livestock agriculture being preferred. The successful candidate will be adept at driving results, fostering innovation, and leading teams in a dynamic, producer-focused environment.

The ability to work in or regularly commute to Edmonton, Alberta is required to fulfill the operational needs of the organization.

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