A member of the Chief Scientist’s senior team, the Vice President (VP) of Operational Programs oversees and has operational responsibility for the series of flagship projects that are helping to achieve National Geographic Society’s ambitious targets to deliver on the mission. Operational Programs are divided into eight portfolios under three thematic lenses of The Human Journey, Wildlife & Wild Places, and Our Changing Planet. The VP will oversee program management and will direct the ongoing operations of the team including: development of annual plans, impact evaluation, budget oversight, and partner management. The VP will collaborate across the organization to maximize outcomes, and will work closely with the Society’s Development team to ensure the initiatives are adequately resourced.
- Program Leadership and Management. Oversee the assessment, development, and operations of Programs, and regularly evaluate portfolios to meet and exceed quantitative targets. Demonstrate consistent quality of budgeting and reporting, communications, and systems, and recommend timelines and resources needed to achieve organizational goals. Attract, develop, coach and retain high performance team members, empowering them to elevate their level of responsibility and performance. Work with staff to ensure consistent, high-quality program management, including development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. Provide leadership in the development of inter-team communication and cohesiveness, supporting staff and cultivating a culture of empowerment and accountability. (50%)
- Relationship Management. Work closely with National Geographic Society’s Development team to expand revenue generation and fundraising activities to support the development and implementation of Operational Programs, cultivating existing relationships and developing new funder relationships. Identify, cultivate and maintain productive, ongoing relationships with high-impact communities and partners; identify key opportunities for amplifying the program objectives; and oversee efforts to increase awareness of programs and associated outcomes. Publicly represent National Geographic Society and build excitement for the mission. (30%)
- Knowledge Management. Work with the senior team to develop a dissemination system to share organizational learning with a broad range of communities. Ensure that key outcomes are evaluated and leveraged for maximum impact. Work collaboratively across the organization to integrate cross- program activities and functions. (20%)
Minimum Years and Type of Experience
- 15+ years demonstrated project management, with a strong background in science and experience in managing international teams; 7+ years of management experience.
Knowledge and Skills Required
- Highly developed oral and written communications skills and ability to work with groups at all levels; budget management and planning experience; international knowledge and experience working with NGOs and government organizations. Extremely effective in building teams and consensus across a broad range of groups. Must have strong scientific credentials, be an excellent communicator. Experienced at managing projects on time and on budget.
Supervision
- 11+ staff members and contractors
National Geographic's headquarters is located in the heart of Washington, D.C. In addition to a unique and dynamic work environment, National Geographic offers its employees a comprehensive benefits package, including health and dental benefits, generous vacation and leave time, a 401(k) plan, and flexible work options. National Geographic is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Responsibility percentages may vary depending on business needs.