Chief Conservation Officer

American Bird Conservancy (ABC) is the only conservation group whose sole mission is to conserve native wild birds and their habitats throughout the Americas. ABC accomplishes its mission through direct action and by engaging the people, groups, resources, and strategies needed to succeed. It undertakes the full spectrum of bird conservation issues using advocacy and habitat conservation strategies.

ABC is looking for a dynamic, teamwork-oriented individual to lead its exceptional and productive Conservation Division. ABC’s Conservation Division is currently comprised of three departments – Domestic Habitat, International Programs, and Advocacy - and has 18 staff with more growth planned. ABC’s Conservation Division develops needed conservation science, influences policy affecting birds, addresses major threats to birds, and establishes and sustains protected areas throughout the Americas.

The Chief Conservation Officer will be responsible for prioritizing ABC’s conservation needs, bringing creativity in advancing ABC programs, and providing support to program staff that both enhances their programs and increases cooperation among programs. This position requires strong leadership and supervisory skills, a creative mind, high energy, flexibility, the ability to juggle multiple activities, and the ability to work well with fellow staff and feel rewarded by their subsequent success. This is a full-time position located at ABC’s office in The Plains, VA and is supervised by the President.

Duties

1. Provide leadership in crafting and advancing ABC’s conservation vision, project selection, and conservation planning.

2. Manage conservation staff, programs, and budget. Ensure top quality project management.

3. Ensure advancement of all conservation projects and timely delivery of products and reports. Ensure all of ABC’s systems are being used effectively.

4. Improve integration and communication both within the Conservation Division and with other ABC departments. Contribute to communicating ABC’s messages to its membership, donors, and the public.

5. Fundraise and assist with ABC fundraising by working with the President and Development Division.

Position Requirements

1. Advanced degree in conservation biology or other relevant field and at least five years management experience or other appropriate combination of education and experience. Demonstrated conservation experience.

2. Demonstrated fundraising experience and the ability to manage complex contracts and agreements.

3. Excellent communication skills, the ability to positively interact with a diverse array of people and demonstrated management skills.

4. Willingness to travel.

5. Ability to work independently, efficiently, accurately, and under pressure.

Please send cover letter and resume to:

Merrie Morrison
Vice President for Operations
American Bird Conservancy
PO Box 249
The Plains, VA 20198

No phone calls, please.