The External Affairs Director plans, implements and coordinates programs to affect government and/or corporate policy and resource allocation for Nevada and in support of the Climate Action Strategy program and North American external affairs program.
The External Affairs Director works with government and business entities to further the Conservancy’s mission for the Nevada chapter and in support of the Climate Action in the US strategy program and in support of the Conservancy’s North America Government Relations program. S/he monitors legislative, administrative, and/or corporate initiatives and policies, which are related to the mission or programs of the Conservancy. Duties include regular contact with local, county, state, federal, and country-level officials and/or corporate representatives regarding actions related to the mission of The Nature Conservancy, and fundraising activity to increase the level of financial support for TNC projects and priorities. The External Affairs Director represents The Nature Conservancy before special interest groups, and works among key government and business officials to increase support for the Conservancy’s mission and programs. The External Affairs Director works closely with leads in the land and water conservation programs to advise and support land and water conservation strategies and also works closely with Development, Marketing and Operations directors in building support and capacity for the Conservancy.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Develops and administers departmental budget and has authority to modify budget based on changing circumstances. Operates within budget guidelines to ensure sound financial performance.
- Implements all components and action items for the Climate Action in the US Strategy.
- Advocates before federal, state and local governments and also manages lobbying and other contracts to achieve chapter objectives and may supervise one or more people working to build support and capacity for the Nevada Chapter and the Conservancy. Builds support with in the business community and other interests.
- Ensures that public and private funds are raised to meet program needs.
- Advances water security plan to create sustainable funding for investments in watersheds and projects that increase the resiliency of communities and keep rivers flowing.
- S/he is a member of the NV Management Team working closely with the Directors of Conservation and Philanthropy.
- Work checked through consultation and agreement with others rather than by directives of superiors.
- Ensures that program meets all lobbying, contractual and legal regulations and standards.
- Demonstrated experience building strong relationships across an organization and with corporations, donors, and/or volunteers.
- Experience working with current and evolving political, legislative, sustainability, and/or conservation trends on a federal and/or multi-state level.
- Experience in directing or participating in complex negotiations and presenting to and communicating with government officials, corporate executives, board members and others.
- Experience designing, implementing and directing multiple and multifaceted projects, setting deadlines and ensuring program accountability.
- Experience communicating complex processes and ideas effectively to audiences within and outside an organization.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience in poublic policy, conservation/environmental policy, regulatory advocacy, public funding and corporate sustainability.
- Project management capabilities. Demonstrated ability to successfully develop and implement complex projects in an unstructured environment.
- Outstanding written and oral communication, negotiating and organizational skills.
- Independent and self-motivated with the ability to participate effectively in a remote team environment.
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.