The mission of the Washington State Wine Commission is to raise awareness and drive the growth of Washington State wine through marketing, communications, and viticulture and enology research. Reporting to the Executive Director of the Washington State Wine Commission, the role of the Research Program Manager (RPM) is to elevate the strategic importance of Viticulture and Enology (V&E) Research with key stakeholders, including winemakers, growers, researchers, students, media, research grantors, and government bodies. Working closely with the Executive Director and the Research Committee, the RPM position plays a crucial role in managing the Washington wine industry’s research grant programs and disseminating research outcomes to constituents. Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to proactive outreach and relationship development with key stakeholders and the wine research community. The RPM also works closely with the communications and marketing teams as well as other members of the Washington State Wine Commission and the Washington State Wine Commission Board.

The ideal candidate has extensive project management experience and demonstrates excellent organizational and communication skills. They are detail-oriented, proactive, and capable of independently leading complex projects with minimal supervision. The RPM will frequently engage with, and often lead, meetings involving multiple organizations focused on industry research. A professional demeanor, strong interpersonal skills, and a positive, collaborative attitude are essential. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic environment, exhibits a strong work ethic, and possesses an engaging personality that fosters trust, collaboration, and productive partnerships.

The Research Program Manager position will spend a minimum of 4 days per month at the WSU Wine Science Center in Richland and is expected to attend staff meetings (both virtually and in-person), board meetings, and ad hoc meetings in the Seattle office, Woodinville, and eastern Washington.

Primary Responsibilities:
-Planning and execution of research seminars, webinars, field days
-Industry organization logistics and administration, associated with:
•  Wine Research Advisory Committee
•  WSWC Research Committee
•  Northwest Center for Small Fruits Research,
•  West Coast Smoke Exposure Task Force
•  National Grape Research Alliance
-Research Communications (research newsletters, news releases, trade publication research articles, editorial planning for online programs, social media)
-Managing, coordinating the annual Research Review process (administer research grant portal program, host and lead Research Review meetings)
-Grower & Wine Producer Outreach
-Research Content on Website (update events, posting research reports, webinar recordings)
-Industry liaison with WSU V&E Department, WSU-Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center, Administration

Required Qualifications:
-Minimum of six years of experience in a related field, with a background in research and/or communications within the grape or broader fruit industry preferred
-Proven experience in project management, preferably in research or industry collaboration contexts
-Excellent organization, time management, and prioritization skills required
-Strong attention to detail while maintaining focus on big picture objectives
-Excellent communications skills, both written and verbal
-Ability to collaborate effectively with the team and cross functional organizations
-Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs and web-based systems
-Ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize work within deadlines
-Positive attitude and ability to be productive within a highly collaborative team environment
-Collaboration and partnership building with multiple stakeholder organizations

Desired Experience:
-Bachelor's degree in a related field
-Experience in agricultural research, viticulture or enology
-Experience working with the state and national research community
-Experience Identifying, securing and leveraging alternative sources of research grant funding
-Navigating within the university community
-Communications with an emphasis on developing research-related media content
-Development and implementation of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Benefits:
Working with the Washington State Wine Commission offers a comprehensive and rewarding benefits package, including:
-Competitive total compensation and benefits provided through the State of Washington
-Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and 11+ state and federal holidays
-Healthy work/life balance, with options for flexible schedules and telework
-Professional growth and development supported through training and advancement opportunities
-Meaningful public service, contributing to Washington’s vibrant wine industry and broader community

The Washington State Wine Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, or political beliefs.