Director of Conservation Science 54515

OFFICE LOCATION Madison, WI, USA #Li-hybrid #PDN WHO WE ARE The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends.
As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world's toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive.
Our work is guided by our values, which include a commitment to diversity and respect for people, communities, and cultures.
From a rewarding mission to career development and flexible schedules, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC.
Want to know more? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.
One of TNC's primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe have a sense of belonging and feel that their unique contributions are valued.
We know we'll only achieve our mission by hiring and engaging a diverse staff that reflects the communities in which we work.
Recognizing that people bring talent and skills that have been developed outside the scope of a job, we take a holistic approach to recruitment that considers life experience in addition to the professional requirements listed in our postings.
Please apply - we'd love to hear from you.
To quote a popular saying at TNC, "you'll join for the mission, and you'll stay for the people." WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER Your science expertise, communication skills, ability to focus and deliver as a genuine and thoughtful leader, supervisor and team player will help address the global biodiversity and climate crises here in Wisconsin and far beyond.
Together, we will deploy science-based projects to achieve conservation outcomes while also informing, supporting and inspiring specific individuals and organizations to take action, and frequently, to change their practices.
Ultimately, we seek to transform systems so that people and nature can thrive for the long-term.
Scientists at The Nature Conservancy embody our core value of Tangible, Lasting Results.
The Wisconsin Director of Conservation Science is a leader in The Nature Conservancy's Wisconsin Business Unit, responsible for integrating an evidence-based, scientific approach for priority applied conservation and policy work.
They play a lead role in shaping and implementing TNC's climate action and renewable energy approaches in Wisconsin and the Midwest.
They work independently and on teams, with the discipline and perspective to apply expertise and resources selectively to advance top priorities.
They ensure that work in Wisconsin integrates with TNC's Midwest Division, North American Region and Global science initiatives.
The Wisconsin Director of Conservation Science defines science priorities for TNC in Wisconsin and leads and manages a team to support and improve ongoing projects.
They establish the Conservancy as a conservation science partner in the State, serving as the principal science contact to government agencies, other conservation organizations, foundations, the academic community and the Wisconsin Board of Trustees.
The Director of Conservation Science develops key partnerships with public and private organizations to identify, resolve and communicate solutions and best practices to identified audiences.
They develop scientific methods, analyses, tools, and frameworks that address natural system needs and engage local communities for conservation outcomes.
They co-create and facilitate complex and innovative solutions, working with Conservancy colleagues, government agencies, non-profit organizations and community members to benefit natural systems and people.
The Wisconsin Director of Conservation Science uses a multi-discipline approach to problem solving and manages an ecology-focused Science and Innovation Team that interfaces with staff, contractors and partners in disciplines including physical, atmospheric and climate sciences, renewable energy, social sciences, economics, te hnology and engineering.
Preferred location Madison, but willing to consider candidates at other locations in Wisconsin.
WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOU If you are a highly collaborative leader with demonstrated standing in the scientific community and a proven track record of outcomes and guiding successful teams, we welcome your application.
The Wisconsin Director of Conservation Science will have the opportunity to lead and grow The Nature Conservancy's applied science program capacity and identify opportunities for collaboration with a wide range of conservation partners working together to tackle the climate and biodiversity crises for the benefit of people and nature.
This role will require your ongoing commitment to embedding diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in your work and the work of the organization.
A typical week will include projects like:
Co-creating and deploying climate adaptation and resiliency projects Evaluating, implementing and communicating about an equitable clean energy transition, natural solutions for carbon capture and nature-based solutions to help nature and communities adapt to climate change Helping shape climate messages and coaching colleagues on strategic climate engagement Promoting the Conservancy's Resilient and Connected Network tool to select audiences Helping draft TNC's public comments and positions on conservation priorities Partnering with colleagues and partners on science/academic grants and publications Serving on advisory teams such as Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts Determining the Conservancy's role in public agency planning efforts WHAT YOU'LL BRING BA/BS degree and 7 years' experience in conservation practice or related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience communicating complex issues to non-scientists, including donors Experience managing complex or multiple projects, including managing finances and coordinating the work of other professionals and partners.
Supervisory experience, including motivating, leading, setting objectives and managing performance.
Experience in partnership development with non-profit partners, community groups and/or government agencies.