Office Location:

Jefferson City, Missouri, USA

Hybrid 

Flexible to other locations in central Missouri.

Who We Are:

The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our Mission and guided by our Values, which includes a Commitment to Diversity and Respect for People, Communities, and Cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s lots of reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube  or on Glassdoor.  

Our goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging, and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our Mission by hiring and engaging a diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we work. In addition to the requirements in our postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job. Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is a key to innovation and a culture of inclusion! Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote myriad TNC staff members, “you’ll join for our mission, and you’ll stay for our people.”

What We Can Achieve Together:

The External Affairs Program Manager will develop and lead the policy and legislative strategy for TNC Missouri and support policy initiatives of larger TNC programs including the Great Plains Division, North American Policy and Government Relations, Mississippi Basin Program, and Interior Highlands Program. They will build relationships with state legislators, the Missouri Congressional Delegation, partner state and federal agency leaders, and non-governmental partners to affect policy to further The Nature Conservancy’s mission. They will lead a team to increase engagement with TNC Missouri partners by leveraging our preserves and building coalitions around key conservation policies. 

The External Affairs Program Manager will lead Missouri’s legislative, policy, and partner engagement strategies. Responsibilities will include developing and advancing legislative priorities, researching policy opportunities, developing and managing partner relationships and agreements, coordinating preserve visits and field days for lawmakers and partners, working with legislative and agency partners to create enabling conditions for conservation projects and systems, and identifying public and corporate funding opportunities to sustain and grow conservation programs. They should enjoy working with people from a variety of backgrounds and perspectives to find mutually beneficial opportunities to partner together, strengthening our voices and missions. The Manager will work in a fast-paced, frequently changing environment. They must be skilled in using data to communicate strategic messages to key internal and external stakeholders.   

We’re Looking for You:

Are you looking for a career to help people and nature? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We’re looking for someone who is passionate, motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today!

What You’ll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree and 4 years related experience or equivalent combination.
• Supervisory experience.
• Experience presenting to and communicating with leadership in corporate, NGO, or government sectors.
• Experience in designing, implementing, and directing multiple complex projects and ensuring program accountability.
• Communications experience including preparing and presenting project proposals and developing written communications.
• Experience working with corporate or non-governmental organization partners, and government agencies.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural experience appreciated.
• Master’s degree appreciated
• Supervisory experience, including ability to set objectives and manage performance.
• Familiarity with social, economic and political conditions and issues in Missouri.
• Experience coordinating projects in a decentralized organization, working across teams, operating units and functions to achieve optimal results.
• Outstanding written and oral communication, negotiating and organizational skills.
• Skilled in using active listening, diplomacy, and tact to build strong relationships.

What We Bring:

Since 1951, The Nature Conservancy has been doing work you can believe in protecting the lands and waters that all life depends on. Through grassroots action, TNC has grown to become one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff, we impact conservation throughout the world!

The Nature Conservancy offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including: health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan including employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work wellbeing benefits. Learn more about our benefits at in the Culture Tab on nature.org/careers.

We’re proud to offer a work-environment that is supportive of the health, wellbeing, and flexibility needs of the people we employ!

Salary Information:

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $64,000 - $74,000 for annual base salary. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.