The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Grounded in science, we develop innovative 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; respect for people, communities, and cultures; and a collaborative, nonpartisan approach. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world.
The California Chapter is TNC’s largest state program and one of the largest, most dynamic conservation organizations in the country. With approximately 275 employees, from financial analysts and fundraisers to ecologists and economists, we are currently invested in 14 strategies to address the biggest challenges facing California and the world, including numerous community-based projects designed to increase the pace, scale, and effectiveness of conservation. Over the past six decades, we have protected 1.4 million acres, 5,000 miles of streams, and 3.8 million acres of ocean habitat in California and off the coast.
The California Chapter believes that we are most effective when we are embedded in our state’s communities, politics, media, and environmental issues. For this reason, and to reduce our carbon footprint when meeting in person, all staff live in California, including those in a home office.
Finally, we are passionate about holding the middle ground in American politics and civic life and doing our part to make conservation a shared national value. The hallmark of The Nature Conservancy is its “big tent” approach, engaging people across the political and ideological spectrum to find solutions that last. We are not activists. We do not litigate. We do not take public stands on matters unrelated to our purpose. We welcome everyone. Everyone in our organization should therefore be adept at working with people who may not share their personal values or opinions. We ask all employees to embrace the critical strategic position of our brand and organization as centrist and non-partisan. It is the foundation of our success.
WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER
The Associate Director plays a key role in the development and implementation of strategies to achieve the Conservancy’s goals through interaction with local governments and communities. The Associate Director works with an interdisciplinary team to serve as a subject matter expert and advisor on complex and strategic issues. They liaise with TNC’s strategy teams, Science and Conservation staff, and with other TNC’s Operating Units to further conservation goals, policies, and strategy. Duties of the Local External Affairs team include:
- Frequent contact with local government officials and community partners on matters pertaining to TNC’s conservation projects and programs.
- Building and facilitating internal networks, coordinating meetings, agendas, and presentations.
- Influencing the outcome of policy and ballot initiatives at the local levels.
- Developing strategic partnerships with relevant agencies, non-government organizations (NGOs), and industry to advance the organization’s conservation agenda.