The Senior Policy Associate plays a key role in policy programs that further the mission of The Nature Conservancy to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. They represent the interests of The Nature Conservancy and conservation as liaison and informational contact between the organization and other groups working in Ohio and the larger Great Lakes and Mississippi River basins. This position will have a primary focus on water policy and programs, and in particular with the establishment of long-term and sustainable funding and policies that lead to lasting improvements in water quality throughout the state of Ohio and larger region. In this role, the Senior Policy Associate will engage with a diverse group of stakeholders in a collaborative way, helping to develop and promote approaches that protect nature while providing for the needs of people. This position reports to the Director of Government Relations of the Ohio program.
The Senior Policy Associate provides research and policy analysis in support of The Nature Conservancy’s policy priorities and tracks policies and decisions that directly affect conservation goals. They build and facilitate internal and external networks by coordinating meetings, agendas, and presentations and acting as a spokesperson and advocate for conservation. They provide services that assist in influencing the outcome of policy and/or corporate initiatives at the international, country, sub-national, and local levels. They develop strategic partnerships with relevant agencies, conservation organizations, and industry to advance the organization’s conservation agenda.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- May supervise administrative staff and/or volunteers, interns, or temporary staff.
- Financial responsibility to complete projects appropriately, and assist with budget development and meeting fundraising goals for local and worldwide conservation.
- Ensures program compliance with internal policies and external requirements.
- Works within scope of program’s strategic goals.
- Provides research and policy analysis in support of legislative, corporate and/or policy priorities.
- May provide assistance with preparation of program materials including presentations, memos, and other communications.
- Influences the outcome of policy and/or corporate initiatives at the international, country, sub-national, and local levels.
- Develops strategic partnerships with relevant agencies, conservation organizations, and/or industry.
- Work independently, working with supervisor as needed.
- Fluency in English and (list language(s) of the countries of the relevant geography).
- Experience researching information from divergent sources and compiling it into a cohesive reporting structure.
- Experience with legislative, planning, policy or corporate initiatives and/or political campaigns at two or more of the following levels: international, federal, state, or local.
- Experience presenting to and communicating with elected officials, government entities, corporate staff and/or program leadership.
- Experience working with partners/government agencies and the corporate sector.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience, coursework, or other training in business, sustainability, or fundraising.
- Experience coordinating complex projects in a decentralized organization, working across teams, operating units and functions to achieve optimal results.
- Experience building networks or organizational capacity, facilitating informational sessions, increasing internal knowledge and capacity, and identifying key stakeholders.
- Experience negotiating complex agreements and contracts.
- Self-starting, independent worker who can thrive in a decentralized organization with minimal oversight.
- Knowledge of state and federal policies that affect water quality
The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.