Description:
The Director of External Affairs strategically plans, develops, implements, and coordinates External Affairs and Government Relations programs to affect public polices and legislation in Alabama and across the southeast, Gulf of Mexico Region, and North America. They coordinate a full spectrum of GR work with federal, state, county, municipal, and military governmental entities to further the Conservancy’s mission. They monitor legislative, administrative, and/or corporate initiatives and policies, which are related to the mission or programs of TNC. Duties include regular contact with local, county, state, federal, and country-level officials and/or corporate representatives regarding actions related to the mission of The Nature Conservancy, and fundraising activity to increase financial support for TNC projects and priorities. The Director of External Affairs represents The Nature Conservancy before special interest groups and works among key government and business officials to increase support for TNC’s mission and programs. They help develop and implement strategy related to Alabama conservation policy and programs. The Director of External Affairs leads the Chapter’s efforts to interact and build partnerships with Alabama’s uniquely diverse communities, regions, and indigenous tribes in coordination with conservation staff and serves as a member of the Chapter leadership team.
The goals and objectives for this postion are:
- Directing all aspects of Alabama's External Affairs Government Relations program developing strategic initiatives in support of Alabama's priorities at the federal, state and local level, and budget managment.
- Develops and administers departmental budget and has authority to modify budget based on changing circumstances. Operates within budget guidelines to ensure sound financial performance.
- Develops and, with staff assistance, executes strategies and plans for influencing federal, state, and local policy and funding.
- Ensures that public and private funds are raised to meet program needs.
- Leads the Chapter’s efforts to interact and build partnerships with Alabama’s uniquely diverse communities, regions, and indigenous tribes with placed-based conservation efforts and staff.
- Works collaboratively within a cross-functional interdisciplinary team. May need to gain cooperation from individuals or groups (inside and outside the Conservancy) over whom there is no direct authority in order to accomplish program goals.
- Ensures that program meets all lobbying, contractual and legal regulations, and standards. Advises the staff and board on all lobbying, campaign, and election law issues.
- Leads the Government Relations Committee of the Alabama Board of Trustees.
WHAT YOU'LL BRING
- Bachelor’s degree and 4 years related experience or equivalent combination.
- Fluency in English.
- Experience working with corporate or NGO partners, and government agencies.
- Demonstrated experience building strong relationships across an organization and with partners such as corporations, donors, and/or volunteers.
- Exhibits strong analytical thinking skills and project management experience. Demonstrated experience in successfully developing and implementing complex projects in an unstructured environment.
- Experience developing, directing, and managing multiple projects, implementing strategic program goals, and ensuring program accountability.
- Must have a valid driver’s license and good driving record.
- Supervisory experience.
- Experience managing a program budget.
- Experience working with current and evolving political, legislative, sustainability, and/or conservation trends on a federal and/or multi-state level.
- Experience in directing or participating in complex negotiations and presenting to and communicating with government officials, corporate executives, board members, and others.
- Experience communicating complex processes and ideas effectively to a variety of audiences within and outside an organization.
- Strong written, communication, and presentation skills.