The Midwest Climate & Energy Policy Advisor promotes highly networked efforts within The Nature Conservancy’s Midwest Division (Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio) to broaden political support in the region for energy and climate policies that lead to reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The individual also works closely with state staff of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to engage external audiences in the region including partner organizations; federal, state and local governments; and the private sector to develop and advance climate mitigation and clean energy solutions. The position may be based in any of the five states of the Midwest region.
The Midwest Climate & Energy Policy Advisor helps integrate regional efforts in support of TNC’s climate and energy policy priorities by facilitating a community of practice and knowledge exchange. The individual is also expected to build external networks and strategic partnerships with local and state government, the private sector, non-governmental agencies, academia and professional and trade associations to help form a broader, diverse coalition that supports and advances climate and energy policy. In this capacity, the advisor will work closely with TNC state staff, volunteer leaders, and external consultants to identify opportunities and develop strategies to reach identified audiences in support of advancing TNC’s climate and energy policies. Responsibilities also include providing research and policy analysis; tracking policies and decisions that directly affect TNC’s climate and clean energy goals; building and facilitating internal networks; and coordinating meetings, events, and presentations. Some travel is required.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Promotes an active network and community of practice among TNC staff in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio in the pursuit of clean energy and climate policies at the state and regional level.
- In coordination with state staff, organizes and implements regional policy initiatives.
- Responds to requests by state staff for research, subject-matter expertise, and assistance drafting testimony, public comments, position statements, factsheets, and communications with public officials.
- Contributes to efforts by state staff to build relationships with members of the U.S. Congress on climate change and clean energy policy at the federal level.
- As needed, represents TNC to a variety of constituencies and stakeholders (public, private, government, NGOs, academia), especially at the Midwest region level, and engages these groups in developing and implementing strategies that advance climate and clean energy policies.
- Coordinates strategic communications at the regional level with target audiences, especially conservative audiences, to promote support for clean energy policies.
- As requested, assumes state-specific responsibilities such as contract management or a stakeholder analysis.
- 5 years of government relations or corporate sector experience, or equivalent combination education/experience.
- Experience with legislative, planning, policy or corporate initiatives at two or more of the following levels: federal, state, or municipal.
- Experience working with, presenting to, and communicating with partners, government agencies, government officials, business, academia, professional and trade associations, media and the private sector.
- Experience with strategy development and in developing and maintaining partnerships, coalitions, and collaborations.
- Strong verbal and written communications skills.
- Team player with strong listening, collaborative and diplomacy skills.
- Fluency in English.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree appreciated.
- Knowledge of and subject matter expertise related to climate change, clean energy, and sustainability.
- Experience presenting to and communicating with elected officials, management-level individuals within the corporate sector, and other key decision-makers.
- Fundraising (both public and private) experience.
- Experience building networks or organizational capacity, facilitating informational sessions, increasing knowledge sharing, and identifying key stakeholders.
- Strong time management, organizational and prioritization skills.
- Multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience preferred.
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.