Audubon’s works across California to implement innovative conservation strategies in partnership and collaboration with government agencies, landowners, tribes, non-profits, and communities across California.
Reporting to the Vice President, California, the Senior Director of Conservation will design and lead the implementation of conservation objectives in the state, manage the conservation and science team, and track conservation outcomes and measures of success. They will develop funding relationships with and proposals to foundations, corporations, agencies, and individuals. The Senior Director of Conservation will engage with members of conservation milestone and initiative teams across Audubon to align priorities and implement collaborative conservation initiatives across the Americas.
This is a hybrid position based in either our Oakland or Sacramento offices.
Qualifications and Experience:
10 plus years of experience in natural resources, focusing on landscape conservation design and implementation, including at least three years of management experience leading high-performing teams.
Advanced degree in ornithology, avian ecology, conservation biology, natural resources management, hydrology, wetland ecology, or a related field preferred; An equivalent experience will be considered instead of education.
Familiarity with California conservation, policy, agencies, tribes, and NGOs is preferred. Familiarity with the birds and habitats across California is desirable.
Fundraising experience, specifically from public agencies and foundations and in conservation and experience working with individual donors.
Experience applying the best available science and other information to achieving outcomes and influencing state and federal policies.
Demonstrated experience overseeing complex or multiple projects through to success, including meeting financial goals, project deadlines, and coordinating the work of key staff and partners.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; able to translate science and policy for diverse audiences. Must have public speaking experience, and the ability to effectively represent Audubon to members, elected officials, donors, and chapters, as well as in traditional and social media.
Ability to exercise a high level of diplomacy, balance and flexibility when dealing with various personalities and sensitive situations to develop cohesive solutions and negotiate successful outcomes.
Passion for Audubon’s vision and solidly grounded in conservation issues to effectively manage challenges, identify important issues, and covey conservation priorities to a wide audience.
Demonstrated success in fundraising, grant management, and committed to cultivating a culture of philanthropy.
Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.
Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.
Willingness and ability to travel for key meetings with staff, funders, and other important stakeholders to help advance the project.
Must be self-motivated and able to work in a flexible, nonstructured environment.
Strong interpersonal and social skills with a positive attitude.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, working knowledge of GIS technology preferred.
Candidate must be willing to travel frequently within California and nationally and be comfortable working evenings and weekends as the job demands.
Valid driver’s license required.
Ability to work outdoors, in all weather conditions, and on varying terrain, with or without accommodation. Ability to carry field equipment, with or without accommodation.