The Indiana Director of Government Relations supports The Nature Conservancy’s conservation goals in Indiana and beyond by working with local, state, and federal officials on matters pertaining to administrative, regulatory, and legislative actions important to the goals of The Nature Conservancy and Indiana’s biological diversity. They will lead project teams, design and deliver project objectives, and serve as a liaison and informational contact between The Nature Conservancy and country, sub-national, and local government officials and agencies, business, and/or private groups.
The Indiana Director of Government Relations position is based in Indianapolis, IN and supervises Indiana’s Government Relations Education & Outreach Associate and is supervised by the Indiana State Director.
The Indiana Director of Government Relations plans, implements, and coordinates programs at the sub-national or departmental level to affect public policy to further the Conservancy’s mission. This position will require close cooperation with a variety of levels of The Nature Conservancy, including the Indiana State Director and staff, North America Region, U.S. and Midwest Division government relations staff, and the Indiana Board of Trustees. This also includes coordination and participation on Divisional and Regional teams as required. The Indiana Director of Government Relations builds and engages networks by coordinating meetings, agendas, and presentations to influence the outcome of policy and corporate initiatives at the country, sub-national, and local levels. This individual strengthens and develops new strategic partnerships with relevant agencies, conservation organizations, and industry to advance the organization’s conservation agenda, including growing efforts to advance climate and energy policies in Indiana.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Will supervise administrative staff and/or volunteers, interns, or contracted lobbying or external affairs support.
- Financial responsibility may include working within/managing a budget to complete projects, negotiating and contracting with vendors, assisting with budget development, and securing support for government programs that advance the strategic goals of The Nature Conservancy.
- Maintains regular contact with local, state, and federal officials on matters pertaining to regulatory, legislative, and/or corporate actions and monitors initiatives and policies which would impact the mission or programs of the Indiana Chapter.
- Develops strategic partnerships with relevant groups to influence legislation.
- Ensures program compliance with internal policies and external requirements.
- Serves as a team leader for assigned projects and coordinate the work of others.
- Ensures that the program complies with country lobbying laws and regulations.
- May need to gain cooperation from individuals or groups (inside and outside the Conservancy) over whom there is no direct authority in order to accomplish program goals.
- May require periodic travel in and out of state; and some evening and weekend hours.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- 4 years related experience or equivalent combination.
- Supervisory experience.
- Experience presenting to and/or communicating with government or legislative staff and/or program leadership.
- Experience with the legislative process and working with elected officials at state and/or federal levels.
- Experience in designing, implementing and directing multiple complex projects and ensuring program accountability.
- Communications experience including preparing and presenting project proposals, and developing written communications.
- Experience working with corporate or NGO partners, and government agencies.
- Valid driver’s license and safe driving record required.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural experience appreciated.
- Master’s degree appreciated.
- Supervisory experience, including ability to set objectives and manage performance.
- Familiarity with social, economic and political conditions and issues in the country, sub-national and/or region.
- Experience coordinating projects in a decentralized organization, working across teams, operating units, and functions to achieve optimal results.
- Enthusiasm to work with a wide range of volunteers, donors, and members.
- Outstanding written and oral communication, negotiating and organizational skills.
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.