Through its Human Journey thematic lens, National Geographic Society helps people around the world better understand themselves, each other, their relationship with the planet, and the steps required for a more sustainable future. Our newest project, Ocean Plastics, has the dual goals of preventing plastics from reaching the ocean and spurring innovation across the plastics - and alternative materials - supply chain.
This position of Manager, Operating Programs will oversee the development and execution of the Ocean Plastics initiative. In close collaboration with the Human Journey Program Director and VP Operating Programs, s/he is responsible for project development including development and management of the project strategy, budget, workplan, and impact measurement/tracking. As the primary point of contact for the Ocean Plastics initiative, the Manager will coordinate across departments at National Geographic Society and National Geographic Partners to ensure that all platforms align in support of outcomes. S/he will work closely with NG departments to support relationships with external partners, scientific experts, sponsors, and other third parties, and will keep abreast of current and emerging work on the issue. The Manager will also be responsible for day-to-day activities to progress the Ocean Plastics project, including administrative, logistical, partnership, organizing/convening, and reporting. The position reports to the Program Director.
Program Development and Management (40%)
- Work with Program Director, other program managers, team members, Explorers/Fellows, subject matter experts, and other key experts to execute Ocean Plastics project needs and ensure alignment with broader NGS strategy and targets.
- Develop and maintain detailed multi-year program strategy, annual workplans and associated budgets for Ocean Plastics, in collaboration with Director and VP.
- Work with Measurement, Evaluation & Research team to develop and maintain a project logic model to inform project workplan. Ensure project is designed to meet organizational objectives/targets, identifying clear measures of success and clear timelines for deliverables.
- Regularly track and report on progress, indicators, and impact for the project. Communicate relevant information across the organization.
- Maintain repository of project information/resources for team members to access and update as needed.
- Manage across departments for ongoing coordinated strategy across National Geographic Society, including Partnerships/Development, Grants, Marketing & Engagement, NatGeo Labs, Education, Digital, and Operating Programs.
Ensure One Brand Initiative (25%)
- Coordinate between NGS and NGP for greatest project impact. Liaise across departments on project-related content and timelines, including but not limited to: NGP Brand Marketing, NGM, NG Channels, NG International, NG Digital & Social, etc.
- Oversee information and communication to internal stakeholders across the organization and ensure that activities align with program strategy and outcomes.
- Ensure alignment and consistency with scientific findings from research expeditions (informing messaging, inform/alignment with NGP Cause Campaign, promotion, media, content use, etc.).
- Liaise with NG Sustainability Team during NG internal reviews of plastic use and waste. Coordinate as needed for internal plastic audit, commitments, messaging, marketing/communication of process, tracking impact, etc.
Internal Administration (20%)
- Provide logistical and strategy support for the program (assist and facilitate process of expedition planning and execution, collaborate with scientific experts to develop research plan, etc.), and elevate when/how additional support is needed.
- Manage agenda, scheduling, and coordination for regular internal cross-functional meetings. Disseminate notes and next steps as needed. Manage ongoing project calendar.
- Schedule external meetings and convening events.
- Assist with contracts, legal, presentation preparation, invoicing, mailing, travel and logistics as needed.
Representation and Relationship Management (15%)
- Create and maintain strong working relationships with internal cross-disciplinary team, including National Geographic staff (NGS+NGP) and talent (Explorers, Fellows).
- Create and maintain strong working relationships with external experts and partners for the project. Coordinate and convene with external experts on technical inputs.
- Attend key events as a representative of the project.
- Support other departments and teams for external partnership relationship management (sponsors, corporate partners, media, etc.).
- Manage advisory group for program components.
- Maintain abreast of current and emerging work in the field of ocean plastics and identify/elevate potential partnerships, relevant information, and developments as needed.
Minimum Years and Type of Experience
- 5+ years experience supporting programs or in a process management role. Conservation experience required with strong preference for marine conservation and knowledge of the ocean plastics issue, landscape, and stakeholders.
Knowledge and Skills Required
- Highly developed oral and written communications skills and ability to work with individuals and groups at all levels; strongly honed leadership/people skills. Creative thinking, responsive problem solving, flexibility, attention to detail, and proactive demeanor required. Must be an excellent multi-tasker and self-starter. Strong institutional knowledge of National Geographic and experience in supporting cross-platform programs. Ability to manage a high functioning team, including field teams and contractors, and oversee diverse activities while meeting deadlines, delivering quality results, and staying within budget.
Supervision
- Contractors and interns.