WY Director of External Affairs

About the Role

The WY Director of External Affairs leads the Business Unit’s (BU) external affairs functions, implements BU policy strategies, and provides guidance to program directors and staff on TNC’s conservation policy priorities. This role works with government and business entities to further the BU’s mission in support of conservation policy and climate action and on behalf of TNC’s North America Policy and Government Relations (NAPGR) policy goals. The Director monitors legislative, administrative, and corporate initiatives and policies that can impact the Wyoming BU’s conservation programs. Responsibilities include regular contact with local, county, state, federal, and country-level officials, agencies, and corporate representatives, as well as representing and promoting The Nature Conservancy’s policy positions before special interest groups, government, and business officials. The Director also collaborates closely with Development, Marketing, and Operations directors to build support and capacity for the Conservancy and serves as the staff liaison for the External Affairs Trustee Committee.

The preferred location for this position is Cheyenne, WY, though other locations within the state may be considered. Frequent travel across the state and nationally, evening and weekend hours may be required. The role may involve working in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.

Responsibilities

• Represent TNC’s conservation policy priorities, including participating in legislative and regulatory/rule-making processes and forums.
• Monitor and analyze state and federal legislation affecting TNC’s conservation priorities.
• Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, agency leaders, business associations, and non-profit partners.
• Participate in legislative and regulatory analyses and forums, strengthening TNC’s role as an effective, credible partner on conservation issues.
• Build partnerships with diverse public and private stakeholders, as well as disproportionately impacted communities.
• Foster internal coordination across departments to unify messaging and policy positions; design and execute outreach strategies targeting policymakers, funders, media, and the public.
• Support the development of private and public funding proposals to advance the BU’s programs.
• Participate as a member of the business unit’s Senior Leadership Team.
• May supervise a team of administrative and/or professional staff with responsibility for performance management, training, and development.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, environmental policy, management, or other relevant field and 6 years of government relations or corporate sector experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience developing, directing, and managing multiple projects and implementing strategic program goals.
• Supervisory experience, including motivating, leading, setting objectives, and managing performance.
• Experience in partnership development with non-profit partners, community groups, and/or government agencies.
• Experience lobbying local, state, and federal legislators.
• Fluency in English.
• Analytical and project management experience, including successfully developing and implementing complex projects in an unstructured environment.
• Proven communication and presentation skills.
• Proven negotiation skills.
• Valid driver’s license and compliance with TNC’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." Employment contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

Desired Qualifications

• Fundraising experience, including identifying donor prospects and donor cultivation.
• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural experience.
• Master’s degree and 7-10 years’ experience in conservation practice or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven experience influencing, developing, and implementing conservation policy and plans.
• 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 or related field.
• Politically savvy with proficiency in policy and regulations pertaining to areas of strategic focus to identify ways of incentivizing conservation practices.
• Experience developing and executing strategies for a large, matrixed non-profit.
• Excellent team player with experience working in multi-disciplinary groups, using influence and interpersonal skills, listening, diplomacy, and tact to build strong relationships with governments, corporations, partners, donors, volunteers, and all levels of staff.

Pay

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $85,200 - $90,525. This range applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on factors such as the candidate’s location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience.

Benefits

TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including:

• Health care benefits.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• A 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match.
• Parental leave.
• Accrued paid time off.
• Life insurance and disability coverage.
• Employee assistance program.
• Other life and work well-being benefits.

Learn more about our Benefits and Perks.

The organization is proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports the health and well-being of its employees.