Job Title: Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
Location: Jacksonville Beach, FL (on-site)
Pay: $200,000-$250,000 per year
Company Information
Athena Ag is a leading cannabis fertilizer manufacturer and distributor, operating in 35+ countries and all 50 U.S. states through a network of 600+ dealers and international distributors. We specialize in dry soluble and liquid fertilizers, alongside IPM, tissue culture, and propagation products. Our ISO9001-certified operations emphasize in-house manufacturing in Sacramento. We are evolving into a technology-driven leader in manufacturing, distribution, multi-brand, and multi-channel management, integrating AI, automation, and customer-facing tools to enhance grower efficiency and supply chain automation.
Job Overview
We are seeking a Chief Technology Officer to spearhead Athena Ag's technology transformation - blending strategic vision with hands-on execution to position us as a premier manufacturing and agtech innovator. This role demands a leader who can architect AI-powered automation across operations, develop customer-centric mobile apps and tools, and integrate deeply into client ecosystems for automated inventory management and supply chain optimization. Based in Jacksonville Beach, FL, the CTO will drive efficiency in a hybrid human-AI workforce, reducing headcount while amplifying output, revenue growth, and customer retention in our increasingly complex multi-brand portfolio.
Responsibilities
- Technology Strategy: Architect comprehensive AI/automation roadmap for multi-brand manufacturing, global logistics, distribution optimization, and customer-facing digital tools across 35+ countries
- Hands-On Execution: Personally code prototypes, deploy AI agents for operational automation, and build mobile apps delivering grower tools like feed schedules, dashboards, and inventory trackers
- Customer Integration: Partner with dealers/distributors to automate supply chains, implement real-time inventory burn rate tracking, and embed Athena tech into customer operations for retention
- R&D Product Development: Lead development of mobile apps and analytics platforms providing real-time cultivation optimization, trial conversion tools, and applied science-based grower insights
- IT Infrastructure: Own all hardware/software systems, cloud infrastructure, cybersecurity protocols, and maintain 99.9% uptime supporting global manufacturing and distribution operations
- Data Leadership: Build enterprise data architecture powering AI initiatives, predictive analytics, customer retention models, and operational decision-making across all business functions
- Technology Governance: Manage vendor ecosystem, rationalize technology stack for multi-brand complexity, and own $5M+ annual P&L with clear ROI metrics and cost optimization
- Team Leadership: Build and mentor lean hybrid human-AI team delivering 20-30% annual efficiency gains while maintaining high output per person in fast-paced growth environment
- Risk & Compliance: Oversee cybersecurity strategy, cannabis/regulatory compliance across jurisdictions, and business continuity planning protecting ISO9001-certified operations
Qualifications
- Experience: 10+ years in tech leadership, with hands-on expertise in AI/ML, mobile app development (iOS/Android), robotics, and supply chain automation; proven track record in agtech, manufacturing, or regulated industries scaling to $100M+ revenue.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency in cloud platforms (e.g., AWS/Azure), ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite), web/mobile development frameworks, and AI tools for predictive analytics and automation.
- Hands-On Approach: Demonstrated ability to execute day-to-day tasks alongside strategic planning; experience in prototyping and deploying solutions in fast-paced environments.
- Strategic Acumen: Visionary thinker capable of navigating multi-brand complexity, using applied approaches to drive customer-embedded tech and operational efficiencies.
- Leadership Fit: High-culture impact with a focus on output per person; confident communicator who thrives in a collaborative, executive team of hands-on leaders.
- Education: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field; relevant certifications (e.g., in AI or mobile development) preferred.
Work Environment
- Computer work and/or reviewing physical documents
- Sit, stand, walk, reach, and balance
- Lift and move objects that weigh up to 25 pounds
- Have close vision, distance vision, color vision, and peripheral vision
Athena Ag, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.