Senior Director, Water for Birds and People

The Senior Director, Water for Birds and People, North America, leads Audubon’s Initiative to focus on the creation of a connected network of protected, managed, and restored freshwater rivers, lakes, and wetland habitats. Through improved science-based water management, long-term water policy solutions, demonstrations of successful on-the-ground restoration projects, and involvement of Audubon’s network and partners, this initiative will work to stabilize and increase populations of priority bird species that will in turn support clean water for people. The position will ensure work within its portfolio contributes impact toward the organization’s Habitat Conservation goals and other strategic initiatives.

Under the direction of the Vice President, Habitat, North America, the Senior Director will establish priorities, detailed goals, specific strategies and tactics for water efforts in the United States and advise on work in Canada and Mexico as part of supporting Audubon’s hemispheric vision. These solutions include both policy and on-the-ground conservation efforts. The position is expected to work closely with peers across the organization responsible for local, regional, and national-level plans that successfully implement and scale these strategies. They will work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure an integrated approach to water conservation across the hemisphere.

The Senior Director is expected to build and maintain relationships with key water leaders, coalitions, partners, and government officials and will serve as an important fundraising partner with Development. They will elevate Audubon’s leadership and profile with relevant external stakeholders and audiences.

This is a hybrid position based in Audubon’s New York City or Washington, DC offices. We will also consider remote candidates within the United States.

Qualifications and Experience:

10+ years’ progressive, professional experience in policy, government relations, advocacy, science on-the-ground conservation and/or public service, including time spent leading successful conservation efforts.

3+ years in a leadership position. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.

Solid expertise in developing conservation strategies, water management and/or wildlife conservation issues and policies, as well as strong connections with leading experts in this field.

Firm grasp of conservation issues and trends.

Demonstrated experience overseeing complex and multiple projects in a matrixed environment to success, including meeting financial goals, project deadlines, and communicating and coordinating closely with key staff and partners.

A self-starter who works collaboratively with staff on multiple career levels.

Outstanding interpersonal skills, judgment, and a demonstrated ability to collaborate and build coalitions with a wide range of individuals and organizations at all levels.

Willingness to aid in fundraising efforts as needed and a proven track record of success in cultivating donors and funders. Public funding experience preferred.

Technically savvy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office suite applications and various web-based technologies.

Excellent and persuasive communication skills, both written and verbal. Experience working with the media a plus.

A deep commitment to building a culture of workplace excellence is a must.

Willingness to travel as required.

Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.

Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.

Salary Range: $144,000 – $202,000

Tagged as: Law/Policy