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 Society’s ultimate goal is a planet in balance, and NGS believes that advancing understanding through education and empowerment provides the greatest hope for addressing the enormous challenges of the 21st century. In the upcoming years, NGS will focus the full complement of the organization’s assets and strengths on three imperatives: protecting the natural world, reducing human pressures on Earth’s resources, and empowering planetary stewards.
Reporting to the Executive Vice President & Chief Scientist, the Vice President is responsible for the establishment and management of regional offices and field staff for National Geographic Society. In this leadership role, the Vice President works collaboratively across a matrixed organization with senior program leadership and other executive leaders to define regional priorities and advance NGS goals to increase the diversity of our talent, advance regional program objectives and support our work in priority markets. The international team plays a critical role in liaising with our regional and in-country media partners, identifying local Explorers and relevant content to increase the impact, and expand the reach, of the Society. The Vice President also plays a lead role in representing NGS international programs to internal and external partners, funders, organizations and individuals in matters related to the planning and implementation of our global expansion and existing regional programs.
- Global Strategy Development: Works with Leadership Team to research, select and prioritize regions for expansion as part of broader programmatic objectives in accordance with NGS priorities; works to refine strategic plan as necessary. Coordinates regional strategy across matrix organization, including Grants, Operating Programs, Explorer Management, Education, Storytelling, Partnerships, and Communications. (30%)
- Regional Oversight: Provides direct oversight of the Regional Program Offices and teams. Current programs and staff are in Latin America (Mexico City), Asia (Beijing, Seoul, Hong Kong), Europe (London) and East Africa (Kigali). Oversight includes budget, personnel and overall programmatic strategy across regional offices and with headquarters in DC. (30%)
- Program Expansion: Executes on global and regional strategies to expand National Geographic Society staff and contractor presence in select markets in support of multi-year strategic goals and evolving NGS priorities. Coordinates with HR, Legal, Finance and Program teams to identify, engage and onboard new staff in line with program and NGS objectives. (15%)
- Program Development and Operations: Represent regional priorities and strategies during incubation and strategy-development process for programs that are principally staffed in the field and where NGS on-the-ground staff is warranted. Work in close collaboration with Operating Programs, Explorer Development, Education and Storytelling teams to ensure international diversity and programs advanced can reinforce regional strategies. Provide direct oversight to staff at Headquarters and promote a culture of collaboration and communication across NGS offices. (15%)
- Partner Identification, Cultivation and Stewardship: Working in close collaboration with the Partnerships and Legal teams, identify, cultivate and steward donors and partners in regions to support NGS priorities. Partners may include individuals, foundations and corporations. (10%)
- 15+ years experience managing large/multi-dimensional projects across multiple countries and cultures, international business development and/or working for international NGOs with at least 7+ years of management experience.
- Strong candidates will have demonstrated experience building and leading teams in multicultural environments.
- Demonstrated collaborative ability to work in team settings across cultures and internally within a diverse and dynamic institution;
- Experience in managing international program operations, including legal entities, staffing considerations and work with HR, Legal and other local advisory firms
- Experience and excellence in leadership and management in multi-dimensional organizations;
- Demonstrated international business development and negotiation skills;
- Strong interpersonal skills, presence and ability to effectively build and maintain strong relationships both internally and externally;
- Reputation for high ethical standards and integrity, displaying diplomacy and tact in difficult or sensitive situations.
- Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced dynamic environment where quick thinking and sound decision making is required.
- Proficiency in other languages a plus.
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