The Climate Adaptation Manager supports The Nature Conservancy's conservation goals by developing and implementing policy and planning related strategies across New Jersey to address impacts from climate change with an emphasis on using nature and nature-based solutions to reduce flood risk to towns and infrastructure across New Jersey. 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. This position will be based in either Chester, NJ or Delmont, NJ.
The Climate Adaptation Manager plans, implements, and coordinates efforts in New Jersey to expand support for and to advance climate adaptation planning efforts 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 focused on using nature and nature-based solutions to reduce flood risk (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).
Responsibilities include:
- Creates new and strengthens existing partnerships with other organizations in the non-profit and private sectors, including the environmental, conservation, outdoor recreation, business, and other communities, in order to achieve TNC’s climate adaptation strategies.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- Experience influencing, developing and implementing conservation policy and plans.
- Experience designing, implementing, and directing multiple complex projects, including workloads and finances under deadlines; experience ensuring program accountability.
- Fluency in English.
- A valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree and at least 7 years’ experience in conservation practice or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Strong communications, presentation, and persuasion skills
- Knowledge of current trends and practices in relevant discipline(s) and regions.
- Familiarity with social, economic, and political conditions and issues in New Jersey.
- 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.
- 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.