The External Affairs Associate coordinates and implements internal initiatives such as organizational knowledge management, internal procedures, internal networks and project coordination. S/he will also support the Nature Conservancy's conservation goals by serving as a liaison and informational contact between the organization and outside agencies or companies.
The External Affairs Associate builds and facilitates internal networks, coordinates meetings, agendas, and presentations, and conducts other activities in support of a program and/or manager. The External Affairs Associate will serve as a point of contact to inform Conservancy partners and elected and appointed officials of Conservancy policy and positions. S/he helps to develop strategic partnerships with relevant agencies, conservation organizations, and industry to advance The Nature Conservancy’s ’s conservation agenda. S/he may organize grass roots efforts to mobilize constituents on legislative/business priorities.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Serve as primary contact for external affairs for The Nature Conservancy of Oklahoma.
- Participation in various government relations work groups and initiatives such as climate change, soil health and renewable energy.
- Develop continued relationships with local, state, and federal officials, as well as partner agencies and organizations.
- Execute strategic events and field trips that advance the cultivation of officials.
- Coordinate meetings, roundtable discussions, and listening sessions.
- Provide research and policy analysis in support of legislative, corporate and/or policy priorities.
- Develop and implement policy plans including polling, research and campaigns.
- May supervise administrative staff and/or volunteers, interns, or temporary staff.
- Financial responsibility which will include developing and working within a budget, processing check requests, and completing travel expense reports.
- Prepare program materials including invitations, presentations, memos, and other communications.
- Works independently, working with supervisor on complex matters as needed.
- Makes independent decisions within the scope of work assignments.
- Comply with TNC policies and procedures, and external (donor/legal/IRS) requirements.
- Able to travel and work flexible hours as needed.
- Duties are performed under general supervision and established guidelines.
- Fluency in English.
- Experience researching information from divergent sources and compiling it into a cohesive reporting structure.
- Experience writing and editing promotional and informational material.
- Experience presenting to and communicating with internal and external audiences.
- Experience working with partners/government agencies.
- Experience interacting with senior leadership in a professional manner.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience coordinating complex projects in a decentralized organization, working across teams, operating units and functions to achieve optimal results.
- Experience building networks, facilitating informational sessions, increasing internal knowledge and capacity, and identifying key stakeholders.
- Experience, coursework, or other training in public policy, government relations, business, or sustainability.
- Self-starting, independent worker who can thrive in a decentralized organization with minimal oversight.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Some supervisory experience.
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.