The Energy and Climate Policy Associate supports The Nature Conservancy's conservation goals by communicating a clear vision and strategy designed to broaden support in Virginia for action on energy policy to address climate change. S/he coordinates project teams, assists with the design and delivery of project objectives, and serves as liaison and informational contact on energy and climate issues in Virginia between TNC and federal and state governments, business groups, and non-profit organizations.
The Energy and Climate Policy Associate coordinates efforts in Virginia to broaden support for action on energy and climate policy to further The Nature Conservancy’s mission. Duties include: 1) outreach to develop strategic partnerships with governments, businesses and trade groups, and non-government organizations 2) organizing meetings and presentations, 3) research and policy analysis, and 4) tracking policies and decisions that directly affect climate and clean energy goals. The Energy and Climate Policy Associate will work closely with the Associate State Director to develop a strategic approach and workplan.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Assists with developing and executing a strategy to broaden support in Virginia for action on TNC's energy and climate policy priorities (e.g., supporting clean energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable energy siting).
- Conducts outreach and represents TNC to government officials, the business sector, non-profit community, funders and other audiences.
- Identifies key stakeholders and constituencies and develops and implements strategies to engage these individuals and audiences in collaborative action on energy and climate 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.
- Coordinates 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).
- Monitors legislative, regulatory, and administrative developments and coordinates action on policy opportunities, as appropriate, in support of TNC's energy and climate 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, assisting with budget development.
- Ensures program compliance with internal policies and external requirements.
- Fluency in English.
- Experience researching information from divergent sources and compiling it into a cohesive reporting structure.
- Experience with state or federal energy regulation or legislation.
- Experience working with nonprofit organization partners, corporations or government agencies.
- Must have valid driver’s license, safe driving record (per TNC’s Auto Safety Program).
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural experience appreciated.
- Experience in writing formal correspondence, drafting policy analysis memos, and interpreting legislative and regulatory language and reports
- Experience with current political and conservation trends and issues in Virginia, and familiarity legislative and regulatory processes.
- Experience, coursework, or other training in sustainability or political science.
- Experience coordinating complex projects in a decentralized organization, working across teams, operating units and functions to achieve optimal results.
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.