Full job description Director of Conservation Programs Region 5 - Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky
Position Overview Ducks Unlimited's Great Lakes Atlantic Region (GLAR) is seeking an accomplished and driven individual to lead our conservation programs. These programs are among some of our highest priorities in the Great Lakes Atlantic Region and are the centerpiece of our Big Rivers Initiative fundraising efforts and conservation delivery programs. This position provides leadership to the specific areas of responsibility and the waterfowl and agricultural conservation enterprises. The Director of Conservation Programs (DCP) will serve as a member of the Great Lakes Atlantic Director's Team which serves to provide direction, strategic thinking and lead targeted implementation to help achieve regional conservation objectives. The DCP will also advise the conservation leadership team on national conservation issues and priority policy efforts. The DCP will provide leadership to help guide the collective conservation and fundraising work of various stakeholders (e.g., DU volunteers, state and federal agencies, joint ventures, agricultural partners, and other conservation organizations) across the GLAR.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities: Oversee the work of staff in field offices to deliver a broad suite of conservation programs, including conservation easements, wetland restoration and enhancements, extension programs for farmers and ranchers, and conservation business opportunities. Work closely with fundraising staff in the region to support fundraising efforts. Work closely with public policy staff both to support priority state and federal policy efforts. Work closely with the Director of Conservation Planning to ensure science support and evaluation for conservation programs. Work closely with the Director of Conservation Services to enhance business planning, improve program efficiencies, and ensure that annual budgets are developed in a fiscally responsible manner and delivered on schedule. Serve as a member of the Great Lakes Atlantic Region Director's Team to help provide overall direction for the region, assist in key decisions, and help develop staff technical and leadership skills. Work with Managing Director of Development and state-based Directors of Development to establish strong working relations aimed at securing private funding in support of priority conservation programs. Collaborate with Director of Fund-Raising and Volunteer Relations, state/based Regional Directors, volunteers and staff in Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky to help develop key policy objectives, major communications themes, and support grassroots fundraising efforts. Work with staff and conservation partners to secure public funding to support priority conservation programs. Coordinate conservation program development and implementation with other conservation organizations, agency partners and interested stakeholders to maximize efficiency of the partners' collective efforts. Incorporate biological, social, and economic information into conservation program development and implementation. Assist Manager of Land Protection and local staff with review of property to be purchased, accepted through donations, or protected under conservation easements. Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications: A minimum of a BS in wildlife biology, ecology, agriculture, business, engineering, or another natural resource related field. An advanced degree is desirable. At least 10 years of experience in conservation program evaluation, development and/or implementation. At least 7 years of experience in supervising a group of staff. Strong personal commitment to conservation. Excellent written and oral communications skills. Ability to utilize technology to manage staff in person and remotely. Experience in strategic program development. Experience in developing partnerships and leading broad stakeholder groups to achieve common goals. Demonstrate a creative approach to conservation program development and implementation. Understanding of not-for-profit fundraising efforts. Specific knowledge in writing and delivering conservation management plans. Ability to work effectively both independently and as a member of a team. Ability to effectively plan, organize and prioritize work activities and complete tasks to meet deadlines. Effectively prepare and present information on conservation programs to peers, colleagues, conservation partners and the public. Possess a valid driver's license and be willing to drive fleet vehicles or personal vehicle for federal mileage reimbursement rate when fleet vehicles are not available.
This position reports to the Director of Operations for the Great Lakes Atlantic Region.
Application: Please fill out the application materials and attach a resume, cover letter, and reference by May 24, 2024 at Please direct any questions regarding application materials to DU Human Resources . This position will remain open until filled. For further information regarding this position, please contact James Rader at , or .
Salary and Benefits Package: Salary commensurate with experience. DU offers an exceptional benefit package that included comprehensive group medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance, including spouse and dependent coverage; three weeks paid vacation; paid sick leave and 10 paid holidays; 401(k) plan (including partial employer match); and tuition reimbursement.
DUCKS UNLIMITED, INC. IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER It is the policy of Ducks Unlimited, Inc. to afford equal employment opportunity to all qualified persons regardless of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, military status, disability, age, or genetic information except where age or gender is a bona fide occupational qualification as allowed by the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
