The Climate Adaptation Manager supports The Nature Conservancy's conservation goals by planning and implementing strategies across New Jersey to address impacts from climate change with an emphasis on reducing flood risk. S/he leads project teams, designs and delivers project objectives, and serves as liaison and informational contact on climate adaptation issues in New Jersey between TNC and federal, state, and local governments, business groups, and non-profit organizations.
The Climate Adaptation Manager plans, implements, and coordinates efforts in New Jersey to expand support for and to advance climate adaptation projects, planning and policies to further The Nature Conservancy's mission. Duties include leading collaborative partnerships and interactions with elected and appointed government officials, corporate representatives, non-profit organizations, media, and other key audiences on matters pertaining to TNC's climate adaptation priorities. S/he participates in fundraising activity to increase the level of financial support for TNC climate adaptation projects and priorities
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Working closely with TNC leadership in New Jersey and other TNC chapters and programs, the Climate Adaptation Manager:
- Develops and executes strategies to broaden support for action to address TNC's climate adaptation priorities (e.g., regional or large-scale planning, policies that support adaptation actions, and/or advancing legislation to improve New Jersey’s ability to adapt to a changing climate).
- Conducts outreach and represents TNC to government officials, the business sector, non-profit community, media, funders and other audiences.
- Identifies key stakeholders and constituencies and develops and implements strategies to engage these individuals and audiences in collaborative action on climate adaptation policy, planning, and projects.
- Creates new and strengthens existing partnerships with other organizations in the non-profit and private sectors, including the environmental, conservation, sportsmen's, outdoor recreation, business, and other communities.
- May manage projects and teams involving research and analysis on a broad range of subjects related to climate adaptation (e.g., science and technology, economics, public opinion).
- Monitors legislative, regulatory, and administrative developments and coordinates action on policy opportunities, as appropriate, in support of TNC's climate adaptation priorities.
- As a registered NJ Government Affairs agent, communicates with elected and appointed officials and prepares and delivers testimony before legislative and administrative bodies.
- Coordinates use of media (e.g., earned, paid, social) in support of TNC's climate adaptation policy priorities.
- Shares information and coordinates strategy with TNC staff in other state, regional, and worldwide office programs.
- May supervise staff and/or volunteers, interns, or temporary staff.
- Financial responsibility may include working within/managing a budget to complete projects, negotiating and contracting with vendors and outside consultants, assisting with budget development, and meeting fundraising targets.
- Ensures program compliance with internal policies and external requirements, including federal and state lobbying laws and regulations.
- Experience designing, implementing, and directing multiple complex projects, including workloads and finances under deadlines; experience ensuring program accountability.
- Experience in partnership development with non-profit partners, community groups and/or government agencies
- Experience presenting to and communicating with business, government, or legislative staff and leadership.
- Fluency in English.
- A valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one.
PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
- Master’s degree and at least 7 years’ experience in conservation practice or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Knowledge of current trends and practices in relevant discipline(s) and regions.
- Familiarity with social, economic, and political conditions and issues in New Jersey.
- Demonstrated experience influencing, developing and implementing conservation policy and plans.
- Experience coordinating projects in a decentralized organization, working across teams, operating units, and functions to achieve optimal results.
- Outstanding written and oral communication, negotiating, and organizational skills.
- Strong communications, presentation, and persuasion skills
- Self-starting, independent worker who thrives with minimal oversight
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.