JOB: Western Lands Director (Can be Based in Any Intermountain State)

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Rick Trilsch

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Nov 15, 2016, 7:08:38 PM11/15/16

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About Western Resource Advocates

Western Resource Advocates (WRA) has spent over 25 years protecting the land, air and water that Western communities rely on for a healthy, vibrant quality of life. We use law, science, and economics to craft and implement innovative solutions to the most pressing conservation issues in the region within three core program areas: Clean Energy, Healthy Rivers, and Western Lands. Our Western Land’s program works to ensure the lands across our region continue to support thriving diverse species and our natural, cultural and outdoor heritage. In the face of population growth and climate change, the Western United States needs a strong and effective advocacy voice at the regional level to address changes that are already underway and to steer the West towards a sustainable future. WRA has aggressive plans to tackle these challenges.

Position Summary

WRA is seeking a passionate Western Lands Director with deep knowledge of the region to build and lead our Western Lands Program and to work with a talented group of conservation professionals. This new, senior-level position, provides a unique opportunity to apply a background in Western lands policy to develop a focused and strategic advocacy operation capable of protecting priority landscapes throughout the Intermountain West. Reporting to WRA’s Vice President for Programs and Strategies, the Western Lands Director will collaborate with diverse partners to identify emerging threats and opportunities, develop policy solutions, and execute multi-faceted campaign plans. The ideal candidate will be a highly motivated strategic thinker who is excited to embrace the challenges and opportunities inherent in a new venture.

Location

The position can be based in any Intermountain West state, but the location must have easy access to a major airport as significant travel will be required.

Job Responsibilities

Work with WRA’s Vice President for Programs & Strategies to develop an ambitious strategic plan that advances our Western lands vision;
Create strategies at both the state and federal level to protect western lands, critical habitat and access for sustainable outdoor recreational activities;
Build alliances with diverse partners to advance shared objectives;
Build our long-term relationships with influential decision-makers and government agencies in the region;
Collaborate with WRA’s General Counsel to identify and leverage legal strategies that secure conservation gains;
Work with WRA’s Communications Team to design and implement plans that influence key audiences and heighten organizational visibility;
Manage and mentor WRA’s Western Lands Policy Analyst;
Work with WRA’s President and Development Team to build and maintain relationships with philanthropic partners, draft grant proposals and complete reports to funders;
Develop and manage program budget; and
Update, engage and collaborate with WRA’s Board of Directors.

Job Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in related field required;
At least 7-years of experience working for federal or state land management agencies, elected officials, nonprofits and/or in the private sector;
A minimum of 2-years of experience managing staff and consultants in multiple locations and demonstrated experience building work plans to match ambitious strategic, organizational and campaign objectives;
Proven track record of securing measurable policy results by working with diverse stakeholders;
Experience developing and executing strategic plans and building advocacy programs from the ground up;
Strong understanding of current lands management trends and politics in the region, especially as they relate to energy development, outdoor recreation and water quality/quantity;
Fundraising or philanthropic experience preferred, and a commitment to actively work with our President and Development Team is required;
Intellectual curiosity; an innovative and entrepreneurial drive; comfort with change and ambiguity; and a strong bias toward action;
Experience managing multiple projects with deadline pressures;
Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
Strong organizational skills, with attention to detail and follow‐through;
Creativity, patience, drive and a sense of humor;
Genuine passion for the mission and work of WRA;
Track record of working collaboratively; and
Willingness to travel: 30-40%.

Salary and Benefits

Competitive salary based on relative experience. WRA’s excellent benefits package includes health, dental and vision coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan, life & disability insurance and paid vacation leave. Position is full-time exempt.

How to Apply

Email the following in PDF Format to hir...@westernresources.org with “Western Lands Director” in the subject line:

Compelling cover letter explaining how your qualifications match the needs of the position and your interest in WRA;
Resume;
Salary requirements; and
Three references.

Please be sure to mention where you saw the job advertised.

Deadline to Apply: January 1, 2017

Western Resource Advocates is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, marital status, amnesty, or veteran status.