The External Affairs Associate plays a key role at the federal, Utah state and local level to affect public policy to further The Nature Conservancy’s mission. S/he serves as liaison and informational contact between the organization and federal, state and local agencies and other NGOs.
The External Affairs Associate provides research and analysis in support of The Nature Conservancy’s policy priorities and tracks policy at federal, state and local levels relevant to Utah’s conservation goals. S/he builds and facilitates internal networks, coordinating meetings, agendas, and presentations, and develops strategic partnerships with relevant agencies, conservation organizations and select elected officials to advance conservation. S/he provides services that assist in influencing the outcome of policy initiatives at the federal, state and local levels.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- May supervise volunteers or interns.
- Financial responsibility to complete projects appropriately, and assist with budget development and meeting fundraising goals.
- Ensures program compliance with internal policies and external requirements.
- Provides research and policy analysis in support of legislative and policy priorities of the Utah business unit and division/region goals.
- Prepares program materials including presentations, memos, and other communications.
- Coordinates and works collaboratively with Utah, division and region staff to influence the outcome of policy initiatives at the federal, state and local levels.
- Develops strategic partnerships and works effectively with relevant government agencies and conservation organizations to advance the organization’s conservation agenda.
- Works independently, yet in close coordination with supervisor and Utah staff.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- 3 years experience working in government relations and/or policy in private business, government, legal, or NGO setting, or equivalent combination.
- Fluency in English.
- Experience researching information from a variety of sources and compiling it into a cohesive reporting format.
- Experience communicating with and making presentations to government commissions, elected officials, business leaders, boards or other formal committees.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with and/or solid working knowledge of western water resource issues or water conservation planning.
- Experience with and/or solid working knowledge of public land law and management.
- Experience with climate change policy.
- Experience with state or federal legislature and lobbying.
- Outstanding written and oral communication skills – writing samples may be requested.
- Excellent team player with experience working in multi-disciplinary groups, using influence and interpersonal skills, listening, diplomacy and tact to build trust and strong relationships with governments, corporations, diverse stakeholders, and all levels of staff.
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural experience appreciated.
- Self-starting, independent, high energy worker who can thrive in a decentralized organization with minimal oversight.
- Is results-oriented.
- Familiarity with Utah political and socio-economic setting.
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.