The National Geographic Society is an impact-driven global nonprofit organization that pushes the boundaries of exploration to further our understanding of our planet and empower us all to generate solutions for a more sustainable future.
For 130 years, we’ve funded groundbreaking scientists and explorers and shared their findings with the world. We sponsored Hiram Bingham as he brought back stories from Machu Picchu, documented Robert Ballard’s quest to find the Titanic, and supported Jane Goodall’s study of chimpanzee behavior.
The National Geographic Society will be conducting a series of expeditions to some of the most extreme and inaccessible environments on Earth. Extreme environments, from the highest mountain peaks to the deepest parts of the ocean, to the coldest and the hottest places on Earth, are poorly understood, yet they are expected to be the most affected by global environmental and climate change. Exploration and monitoring of these extreme environments will be critical to improve our understanding of our global vulnerability and inform ways to mitigate risks.
Reporting to the VP, Operating Programs, the Expedition Director has operational oversight responsibility for these expeditions and will work with scientific leads to ensure successful execution of expedition objectives. The Director will also be expected to assist with the strategy and planning of other programmatic expeditions, which includes playing a leadership role across the organization to ensure that expeditions achieve long-term impact with measurable outcomes.
- Expedition execution: Oversee the entire development and execution of program-related expeditions beginning from original concept to expedition design and evaluation. Organize and/or lead preliminary reconnaissance trips to develop scope for logistics, transport, shipping and local partnerships/vendors. Contribute to the development of risk assessments, control measures and logistical plans in collaboration with expedition leader, including ensuring that satisfactory support is in place at or near the expedition destination. Ensure successful execution of the expedition and it objectives. Coordinate regular reporting during expeditions and evaluate expeditions at their close. (40%)
- Program management: Plan and direct operational, financial and administrative activities of expeditions, including creating and maintaining budgets. Oversee and manage the overall success of expeditions. Direct the workflow of other individuals within the organization. Arrange and manage key project meetings (e.g. weekly planning with core team) in support of expedition strategic objectives, and have clear action items and follow-up after meetings. Oversee development of necessary collateral and materials. (30%)
- Strategic initiatives: Manage core project internal communication and outreach support. Provide strategic guidance and ensure effective network/partner communications. Provide strategic advice to improve the daily management of the projects. Participate in the development of financial/development strategies. (10%)
- Internal NGS communications and coordination: Attend meetings and coordinate with other NGS teams, including Science and Exploration and NG media units. Collaborate closely with the extended Science and Exploration team, NGS media and other NGS groups to procure and distribute appropriate content to stakeholders. Assist in the development, creation and distribution of press kits, exhibits, social content, blogs, and general website content. Develop presentations for key events. (10%)
- Program administrative support: Lead and direct the work of administrative support staff. Work with project coordinator to maintain monthly reports, program files and program calendars. Lead the creation and management of all contracts. (10%)
- A minimum of 10 years demonstrated experience within middle to upper management positions. Previous experience executing international expeditions is preferred. Experience with preparing expedition supplies and effectively consolidating shipments in a dynamic environment. Passion about environmental conservation is required.
Knowledge and Skill Requirements (to include software, licenses, certifications, etc.)
- Excellent coordination, communication, problem-solving, organizational, leadership, coaching and supervisor skills. Strong writing and oral communication skills. Exceptional professionalism and ability to remain calm under pressure. Demonstrate ability to anticipate problems and find creative solutions to challenging situations. Candidate needs to have the ability to perform in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. It is imperative to work as part of a team. Focused on quality, and detail-oriented. High analytical skills, be able to see patterns, be a fast thinker and a good decision maker. Strong willed, fast learner, and able to effect changes fast (based on employee feedback). Proficient in basic computer programs (including Office suite, Keynote) and social media.
National Geographic's headquarters is located in the heart of Washington, D.C. In addition to a unique and dynamic work environment, National Geographic offers its employees a comprehensive benefits package, including health and dental benefits, generous vacation and leave time, a 401(k) plan, and flexible work options. National Geographic is an Equal Opportunity Employer