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Director of Conservation Programs

A LITTLE ABOUT US
 
Since 1951, The Nature Conservancy has been doing work you can believe in, protecting the lands and waters that all life depends on. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to earth’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our Mission and guided by our Values, which includes a Commitment to Diversity and Respect for People, Communities, and Cultures. We recognize that conservation is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of widely diverse backgrounds, experiences and identities. Hiring and cultivating a diverse, inclusive and equitable staff is a reflection of our global character, the communities in which we work, and our collaborative engagement with partners. We promote a work-environment that is supportive of the health, wellness, and flexibility needs of the people we employ by offering a competitive benefits package, including, but not limited to, health insurance, domestic partner coverage, matched 401(k) program, floating holidays, and paid parental leave. To learn more, visit www.nature.org or follow @nature_press on Twitter.
YOUR POSITION WITH TNC
 
The Missouri Director of Conservation Programs manages a diverse and geographically dispersed team of conservation professionals throughout Missouri. Program responsibilities include applied science, conservation planning, restoration ecology, land management, conservation real estate, budgeting, and monitoring measurable results. The Director ensures effective conservation program operations with a cooperative focus working with a broad suite of staff, trustees, partners, and stakeholders. The Director coordinates implementation of conservation strategies to sustain urban and rural communities, priority grassland, woodland, and aquatic systems, as well as to achieve long-term solutions to meet the needs of nature and people.
 
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
 
The Director of Conservation Programs leads a team to develop and deliver conservation initiatives that advance the Conservancy’s goals in priority landscapes and watersheds within and beyond Missouri, including the Missouri and Mississippi River systems. The Director works at multiple levels to achieve conservation success in critical landscapes, working through partnerships to implement solutions, and building scientific, strategic, and technical capacity for conservation priorities. The Director serves as a liaison for the conservation science community and state, federal, and NGO partners, and works cooperatively with other programs in the Conservancy. They make independent decisions and also actively collaborate with the conservation team to make collective decisions that translate into pragmatic plans and actions.
 
RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE
 
·       Guide and supervise a high-performing team of conservation professionals at multiple locations across Missouri and maintain staff commitment, performance, and well-being.
·       Create and foster an open and inclusive environment and encourage team to be active participants in diversity, equity, and inclusion trainings and learning opportunities.
·       Work with trustees, partners, stakeholders, government officials, community leaders, and opinion shapers to promote support for the Conservancy’s conservation priorities in a complex socio-economic and political landscape. 
·       Work closely with Conservancy staff to secure private and public funding and resources to support conservation efforts through grants and donations.
·       Provide analyses and recommendations based on sound science and strategic opportunities.
·       Ensure alignment of Missouri conservation goals and strategies within the overall framework of the Conservancy’s global goals, priorities, and approaches.
·       Communicate effectively to varied audiences on conservation topics that promote engagement and involvement.  
·       Manage a full schedule and frequently travel statewide.               
 
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
 
·       BA/BS degree and 7 years of experience in conservation practice or other field with transferrable skills – or equivalent combination of education and experience.
·       Experience supervising staff and volunteers, including motivating, leading, setting objectives, and managing performance.
·       Experience negotiating and managing complex projects towards a common goal.
·       Experience with the principles of conservation biology, ecology, or applied conservation. 
·       Experience conveying compelling messages to diverse constituencies through verbal and written communications.
·       Fundraising experience, including grant writing, donor cultivation, and/or public presentations.
 
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
 
·       7-10 years of experience in conservation practice or equivalent combination of education and experience in alternate field.
·       A demonstrated level of awareness, understanding and the ability to communicate about systemic inequalities that affect the field of environmental conservation.
·       Experience advancing justice and equity strategies within the field of environmental conservation.
·       Familiarity with conservation real estate practices, including land acquisitions and conservation easements.
·       Political expertise in developing complex partnerships among government agencies, NGO’s, local communities, and other stakeholders.
·       Ability to develop practical applications of scientific concepts and technical innovations for conservation purposes.