Director of Climate Action – The Nature Conservancy

Location: Boulder, Colorado

Overview: 

The Director of Climate Action will develop and implement a strategic program of policy work to meet  The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in Colorado’s climate and energy goals. In this role, you will guide the transition to clean and renewable energy using science-based strategies to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse impacts to biodiversity across the state. You will work to ensure that TNC is aligned with the needs of local communities and partners. TNC is working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across Colorado; this role will play an integral part in facilitating this work  at the local, regional, national and global levels. You will design and implement TNC Colorado’s clean energy policy agenda, participate in legislative and regulatory forums, and work across teams to develop climate adaptation and resilience strategies.

This role will work closely with Tribal Nations and governments, community-based organizations, local, state and federal agencies, elected officials and other partners to implement climate action strategies. The Director of Climate Action will build trusting relationships with underrepresented and disproportionately impacted communities to create durable and lasting community-based solutions. You will implement principles of diversity, equity, inclusion and justice throughout the projects and workstreams of this role.

This role will work independently within broad program goals and will participate in complex, sensitive and high-profile negotiations. Please include a cover letter in your application.

Role/Responsibilities:

The Nature Conservancy Colorado is dedicated to working closely with communities across the state to build science-based, durable solutions to tackle climate change. As the Director of Climate Action, you will shape the strategies and work of the Colorado chapter through advising, relationship building and collaboration with Tribal, local, state and federal governments. You will apply your expertise to advocate for and implement policy approaches that reduce greenhouse emissions, avoid, minimize or mitigate impacts to biodiversity and meet community needs while working closely with various teams.

Qualifications: 

• Equivalent combination of education and experience: Bachelor’s degree in climate or clean energy policy, environmental policy, management or other relevant field and 7 years of government relations or climate/clean energy policy experience

• Experience developing, directing, and managing a major climate-related program or project, including management of multi-disciplinary teams, contracts, and budgets

• Policy development and advocacy experience. Experience working on climate and clean energy policy issues in various administrative, legislative, and/or other policy forums

• Communication and presentation skills
• Experience utilizing negotiation skills to understand diverse perspectives and develop successful approaches
• Can communicate clearly via written, spoken, and graphical means in English; multi-language skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.

Desired Qualifications

• Master’s or professional degree in natural resources, law, or other field relevant to climate policy

• Experience working with one or more of the following: Public Utilities Commission (or equivalent), gas or electric utility, renewable energy companies, government

• Experience working at the nexus of greenhouse gas emission reduction and biodiversity conservation
• Excellent team player with experience working in multi-disciplinary groups, using influence and interpersonal skills, listening, diplomacy and tact to build strong relationships with governments, corporations, partners, donors, volunteers, and all levels of staff
• Experience presenting to and communicating with a variety of audiences, including management-level individuals within the government, corporate and private sectors

Application Instructions: To apply for job ID #56095 submit your resume and required cover letter online by using the Apply Now button at https://careers.nature.org/. [The application deadline is February 5, 2025  Need help applying? Visit our recruitment page or contact [email protected].

TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to [email protected] with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.