Chief Scientist

Chief Scientist - The Nature Conservancy

About Us

Founded in 1951, the Nature Conservancy is a global conservation organization dedicated to conserving the lands and waters on which all life depends. Guided by science, we create innovative, on-the-ground, large-scale solutions to our world's toughest challenges so that nature and people can thrive together. One of our core values is our commitment to diversity. Therefore, we strive for a globally diverse and culturally competent workforce. Working in 72 countries, including all 50 states in the US, we use a collaborative approach that engages local communities, governments, the private sector, and other partners. To learn more, visit www.nature.org or follow nature_org on Twitter.

 

Position Summary

The Conservancy seeks a Chief Scientist to provide intellectual and strategic leadership for the world’s largest environmental NGO.  As the chief scientific leader and authority for the organization, the Chief Scientist advises senior management on complex aspects of the organization’s two thematic priorities: climate change and healthy land, water and oceans. They mentor the Lead Scientists and Managing Director Global Science and guide the identity and rigor of the science that underpins the organization’s work.  The Chief Scientist will be a globally recognized scientific leader and broad thinker with excellent communication skills and a collaborative spirit.  They will be expected to serve as an external spokesperson for TNC and have the ability to connect and represent TNC amongst the world’s leading scientific bodies.  The Chief Scientist plays a key role in recruiting top science leaders to TNC, building and maintaining partnerships with other scientific and environmental institutions, and guiding the work of the Conservancy’s 300+ scientists.  The Chief Scientist is a key thought-partner for the CEO and Board and is a member of the Executive Council.

 

Desired Skills & Experience

·       PhD degree in science-related field plus 10 years related experience in Conservation Science or equivalent.                                        

·       Supervisory experience, including motivating, leading, setting objectives and managing performance.     

·       Global experience in conservation.     

·       Experience making compelling presentations to a wide variety of audiences.

·       Knowledge of current and evolving trends in relevant disciplines.  

·       Experience in strategic thinking, analytical ability and technical skills.                                                       

·       Peer-reviewed publications in scientific journals.                                                      

·       Fundraising experience for conservation programs and projects.                                       

·       Experience building partnerships within the scientific community. 

·       Experience using listening, diplomacy, and tact to build strong relationships and motivate senior managers, donors, partners, staff and volunteers.

·       Experience in decision making with legal, financial and reputational results and consequences.

·       Multi-disciplinary thought leader in conservation, with broad global network.

·       Reputation for high-integrity, collaborative approach.

·       Multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience.

·       Ability to resolve large-scale, complex problems through systematic, thorough studies. 

·       Ability to propose, implement and manage short- and long-term programmatic goals.

·       Ability to lead and/or participate in the formulation of broad, strategic policies.

·       Experience in identifying, cultivating and soliciting major donors.

·       Proven negotiation and persuasion skills. 

·       Ability to communicate and deal effectively and tactfully with all levels of management, staff and external parties, including creating and conveying a compelling vision.

How to Apply

To view the full position description and apply, please visit https://careers.nature.org. Search for job ID# 49130 in the keyword search. If you experience technical issues, please refer to our applicant user guide or contact tnc.org">applyhelptnc.org.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply. Please visit our career center for a full list of all our open positions globally – new positions are posted often!