The Climate and Energy Policy Manager supports The Nature Conservancy's conservation goals by developing and communicating a clear vision and strategy designed to broaden support in New Jersey for action to address climate change. S/he leads project teams, designs and delivers project objectives, and serves as liaison and informational contact on climate and energy issues in New Jersey between TNC and federal, state, and local governments, business groups, and non-profit organizations. This is a 3-year position.
The Climate and Energy Policy Manager plans, implements, and coordinates efforts in New Jersey to expand support for action on climate change and affect climate and energy policy to further The Nature Conservancy's mission. Duties include contact with elected and appointed government officials, corporate representatives, non-profit organizations, media, and other key audiences on matters pertaining to TNC's climate and energy policy priorities. S/he participates in fundraising activity to increase the level of financial support for TNC climate and energy projects and priorities.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
Working closely with TNC leadership in New Jersey, other TNC chapters, and TNC’s U.S. Government Relations program the Climate and Energy Policy Manager:
- Develops and executes a strategy to broaden support in New Jersey for action on climate change and TNC's climate and energy policy priorities (e.g., supporting clean energy, energy efficiency, and efficient, healthy land use/sustainable energy siting).
- 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 and energy policy.
- 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 and energy policy (e.g., science and technology, economics, public opinion).
- Convenes and facilitates external meetings to deepen understanding of climate change impacts, expand support for action on climate change, and advance climate and energy policy priorities.
- Monitors legislative, regulatory, and administrative developments and coordinates action on policy opportunities, as appropriate, in support of climate action and TNC's climate and energy 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 climate action and TNC's climate and energy policy priorities.
- Shares information and coordinates strategy with TNC staff in other state, regional, and worldwide office programs.
- May supervise administrative 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.
- Serves as a team leader for assigned projects and coordinates the work of others.
- Ensures that the program complies with federal and state lobbying laws and regulations.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- 4 years related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Fluency in English.
- Experience presenting to and communicating with business, government, or legislative staff and program leadership.
- Experience in designing, implementing, and directing multiple complex projects and ensuring program accountability.
- Communications experience including preparing and presenting testimony before government bodies, preparing project proposals and developing written communications on policy issues
- Experience working with corporate or NGO partners and government agencies.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree preferred.
- 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.
- Ability to gain cooperation and build networks with individuals or groups (inside and outside the Conservancy) over whom there is no direct authority to accomplish program goals.
- Strong communications, presentation, and persuasion skills
- Team player with a sense of humor
- 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.