NYC Bird Alliance seeks a Senior Manager, Strategic Initiatives to lead cross‑organizational initiatives that advance our mission to protect birds and strengthen urban biodiversity. The primary focus of this role will be serving as project manager and external-facing coalition lead for NYC Bird Alliance’s flagship Biodiversity District initiative.
The ideal candidate is an exceptional communicator and relationship‑builder with strong strategic thinking and project management skills, and experience coordinating complex initiatives with multiple external partners. This role will help shape innovative, city‑scale conservation efforts at one of New York City’s leading environmental organizations.
About the Position
The Senior Manager, Strategic Initiatives reports to the Executive Director and partners closely with senior leadership and staff across all departments, including science, advocacy, engagement, communications, and development. This role will also work extensively with board members, external partners, community organizations, and funders.
The primary responsibility of this position is to manage and advance the Biodiversity District — NYC Bird Alliance’s flagship, multi‑year pilot to convene businesses, institutions, public agencies, and public space managers to improve biodiversity and ecosystem health at a neighborhood scale. The Senior Manager will also lead other high-profile, cross-cutting projects that require strong internal and external partner coordination, communication, and follow‑through.
Qualifications
Required skills and experience
At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in project management, coalition building, partnerships, or strategic initiatives
Experience managing complex, multi‑stakeholder initiatives
Success building and managing relationships across organizations and sectors
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messages to different audiences
Entrepreneurial and self-directed, with a high-degree of comfort leading “blank-slate” projects in dynamic, evolving environments
Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
Comfort working cross‑functionally within organizations and coordinating teams without formal supervisory authority
Preferred
Bachelors degree or equivalent work experience in conservation, urban ecology, sustainability, public policy, or a related field
Experience with nonprofit organizations, public‑private partnerships, and coalition‑based work
Additional Requirements
Comfort working effectively with people of varied backgrounds, and commitment to proactively engaging diverse audiences
Proficiency with Microsoft 365/Office, Google Suite, and Zoom
Flexibility, positivity, and strong collaboration skills
The Senior Manager’s salary will be in the $70,000-75,000 range, depending on experience and skills.