Director of Conservation - Oklahoma Program

OFFICE LOCATION

Tulsa,Okalhoma, USA.
OK201

This position will be based out of our Tulsa office. However, our Oklahoma City office location can be a consideration for the right candidate.

A LITTLE ABOUT US

Founded in 1951, the Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world's toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. We are tackling climate change, conserving lands, waters and oceans at unprecedented scale, providing food and water sustainably and helping make cities more sustainable.  One of our core values is our commitment to diversity. Therefore, we strive for a globally diverse and culturally competent workforce. Working in 72 countries, including all 50 United States, we use a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners. To learn more, visit www.nature.org or follow @nature_press on Twitter.

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.

YOUR POSITION WITH TNC

The Director of Conservation oversees all aspects of conservation, protection, science, stewardship, and property management for Oklahoma. Provides scientific leadership and support for TNC’s conservation planning work and establishes overall conservation priorities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The Director of Conservation leads and manages statewide TNC Conservation staff. Works with staff and partners to define overall conservation priorities in the state and develops and implements strategies for their accomplishment. Participates in large-scale conservation efforts that extend beyond the state, addressing North American and global priorities. Assists and supports efforts to influence government policy and programs and works with legislative interests and agencies. Devises and negotiates complex and innovative ventures with government agencies, private organizations, landowners, and other partners to conserve natural communities. Serves as a lead contact with designated government agencies, other conservation organizations, and the academic community. Secures public and private support for Conservancy priorities. Assists in securing public and private funds for land protection; seeks grants and assists in fundraising as required. Negotiates  complex  transactions, both real estate and non-real estate. Oversees operation and maintenance of all lands owned or managed by The Nature Conservancy of Oklahoma. Responsible for extensive collaboration with other Conservancy staff, partner organizations, government agencies, scientists, landowners, and other stakeholders. Supervised by the State Director.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE

Oversight of a conservation program that requires cross-boundary work and relationships.

Supervises staff at remote locations.

Establishes and maintains optimal performance standards within budget and within SOPs.

Writes requests for proposal (RFPs) for grant/contract funding for program.

Frequently makes independent and strategic decisions based on analysis, ambiguous information and judgment.

Negotiates complex agreements, in a political environment.

Leads/co-leads a whole system program.

Frequent travel, evening and weekend hours.

Sometimes works in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

BA/BS degree and 7 years’ experience in conservation practice natural resource management.

Experience collaborating with fundraising staff and meeting with donors.

Experience managing complex or multiple projects, including managing finances and coordinating the work of other professionals and partners.

Supervisory experience, including ability to motivate, lead, set objectives and manage performance, for staff in remote locations.

Politically experienced in partnership development (partners, community, government); extensive networking skills with high level conservation contacts.

Negotiation experience.

Experience meeting deadlines and hold staff accountable.

Must have/maintain valid driver’s license and safe driving record.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

M.S. degree and 5-7 years’ experience in conservation, natural resource, or related field

Demonstrated experience influencing, developing and implementing conservation policy and plans.

Knowledge of current trends and practices in relevant discipline(s) and regions.

Understanding of management strategies is extremely desirable; hands-on experience is preferred.

Experience working with renewable energy, especially related to siting practices.

Ability to develop practical applications of scientific concepts and technical innovations for conservation purposes.

Knowledge of methods and standards of biodiversity information systems and initiatives.

Ability to identify donor prospects and aid in donor cultivation.

Experience with creating and administering budgets.

Excellent communication skills via written, spoken, and graphical means.

Excellent computer and technology skills.

AUTO SAFETY POLICY

This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with the Conservancy's Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." Please see further details in the Auto Safety Program document available at www.nature.org/careers.

Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

SALARY INFORMATION

Job Family: Conservation

Salary Grade: 8

Salary Range: $70,000 - $85,000 (based on skill sets, experience, and location)

HOW TO APPLY

To apply to position number 46768 submit resume (required) and cover letter separately using the upload buttons. All applications must be submitted in the system prior to 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on September 7, 2018.

Click “submit” to apply for the position or “save for later” to create a draft application for future submission. Once submitted, applications cannot be revised or edited. Failure to complete required fields may result in your application being disqualified from consideration.

If you experience technical issues, please refer to our applicant user guide or contact applyhelp@tnc.org.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Our commitment to diversity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of men and women of diverse backgrounds, beliefs and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization that reflects our global character is a priority and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.

The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy’s background screening process.