External Affairs Associate

Description

What We Can Achieve Together

The External Affairs Associate serves as a representative to inform Conservancy partners and elected and appointed officials of Conservancy policy positions. They help develop strategic partnerships with relevant agencies, lawmakers, conservation organizations, and industry to advance The Nature Conservancy’s conservation agenda. The individual will work closely with TNC staff and external consultants to identify opportunities and develop strategies to reach identified audiences in support of advancing TNC’s mission by leveraging our science, on-the-ground projects, and relationships through policy to make a meaningful contribution to TNC’s conservation and climate goals.

They may organize grassroots efforts to mobilize constituents on legislative priorities. The External Affairs Associate also builds and facilitates internal networks, coordinates meetings, agendas, and presentations, and conducts other activities in support of the Ohio Policy and Government Relations program. This includes additional responsibilities related to federal and state legislative issues based on team needs. Regular and consistent travel to the Columbus office is required.

We’re Looking for You

The External Affairs Associate supports The Nature Conservancy’s conservation and advocacy goals by serving as a liaison and informational contact between the organization and external partners and stakeholders. They will support the Ohio Policy and Government Relations team in amplifying conservation and climate policies that support TNC’s national and state chapter advocacy platform and will be primarily responsible for serving as a contact and resource for Ohio’s Congressional delegation and other federal contacts.

The External Affairs Associate coordinates and implements internal initiatives such as organizational knowledge management, administrative procedures, internal networks, and project coordination. They serve as a main point of contact for Ohio conservation policy issues with Ohio’s legislature and state agencies; therefore, the ideal candidate will be located in the Columbus metro region.

Come join TNC and apply today!

Responsibilities Include

• Advocating for statewide conservation and climate issues through engagement with stakeholders including conservation organizations, community-based organizations, and elected officials.
• Supporting state conservation and climate advocacy goals by actively participating in coalitions and work groups.
• Building and maintaining relationships with key partners and policymakers involved in efforts to tackle climate change and protect lands, waters, and wildlife.
• Managing legislative engagement, including state or federal contract lobbying efforts, and outreach to local, state, and federal elected officials. Collaborating with national, regional, and Ohio Chapter colleagues on shared projects and identifying cross-cutting connections with legislative priorities.
• Drafting testimony, action alerts, letters, and other materials as needed to support the advocacy goals of the Ohio Chapter.
• Presenting policy priorities to potential donors, supporters, and stakeholders.
• Providing research and policy analysis and assisting with outreach in support of legislative, corporate, and/or policy priorities at the state and federal level.
• Sharing information and coordinating strategy with TNC programs in other states, regions, and the Worldwide Office.
• Preparing program materials including presentations, memos, and other communications.
• Providing administrative, research, organizing, and general office support to the Ohio Policy and Government Relations team.
• Working independently and collaborating with supervisor on complex matters as needed.
• Making independent decisions within the scope of work assignments.
• Traveling to the Ohio Statehouse and Washington, DC for advocacy on TNC priorities.
• Carrying out financial responsibilities, which may include developing and working within a budget and completing expense reports.

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 2 years related work experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience researching information from divergent sources and compiling it into a cohesive reporting structure.
• Experience writing and editing persuasive and informational material.
• Experience presenting to and communicating with internal and external audiences.
• Experience building and maintaining professional relationships and working with partners and government agencies.
• Experience interacting with senior leadership in a professional manner.

Desired Qualifications

• Understanding of State of Ohio and federal legislative processes.
• Awareness of conservation and climate issues impacting Ohio and the United States.
• Knowledge of State of Ohio and federal lobbying laws and regulations, and ability to monitor changes in county and local lobbying requirements.
• Experience coordinating complex projects in a decentralized organization, working across teams, operating units, and functions to achieve optimal results.
• Experience building networks, facilitating informational sessions, increasing internal knowledge and capacity, and identifying key stakeholders.
• Experience with legislative, planning, policy, or corporate initiatives at two or more levels: international, federal, state, county, or municipal.
• Experience, coursework, or training in public policy, government relations, business, or sustainability.
• Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural experience appreciated.
• Self-starting, independent worker who collaborates effectively in a team and thrives in a decentralized organization with minimal oversight.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments simultaneously.

This position requires a valid driver’s license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program. Employment is contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the applicant’s motor vehicle record.

Salary Information

The starting pay range for this position is generally $60,000–$63,500 for candidates employed in the USA. Actual pay will depend on factors such as location, qualifications, skills, and experience. Pay ranges outside the USA differ based on local labor markets.

Who We Are

The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to global challenges so people and nature can thrive. We are rooted in our mission and guided by values that include respect for all people, communities, and cultures.

We strive to cultivate an inclusive work environment where all colleagues feel a sense of belonging and where their unique contributions are valued. We welcome applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds.

What We Bring

Since 1951, TNC has grown from a small nonprofit into one of the most effective environmental organizations in the world. With more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and dedicated staff and partners, we impact conservation globally.

TNC offers a competitive benefits package including health care, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) with 8% employer match, parental leave, paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance programs, and additional well-being benefits.

We offer a flexible work environment that supports employee health and well-being.

Our recruiting process uses rolling interviews, meaning applications may be reviewed as they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the posting may be removed. Applicants are encouraged to apply early.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion across all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

Applicants must meet TNC’s background screening requirements.

Candidates with military experience are encouraged to use the U.S. Military Skills Translator to explore matching roles.

TNC is committed to providing accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. To request assistance, email [email protected] with “Request for Accommodation” in the subject line.