Conservation Policy Special Assistant, Ocean Conservancy – Texas

Organization: Ocean Conservancy

Position Title: Special Assistant, Conservation Policy

Location: Austin, Texas

Hours and Compensation: Full-time

Application Deadline: Position open until filled

Description: The Special Assistant is responsible for working with the Vice President to manage day-to-day operational aspects of Conservation Policy and Programs. The Special Assistant will work with a team of Ocean Conservancy staff, including members of Executive Leadership, to coordinate and manage the flow of regional and national programmatic campaigns to ensure Ocean Conservancy’s program goals and objectives are met.

Responsibilities: Executive Support: Responsible for the day-to-day operations and workflow of the Vice President, Conservation Policy and Programs. Provides budget inputs and assists in monitoring office and program budgets. Oversees quality control of communications, routing and tracking, filing procedures, and handling of confidential materials. Manages flow of information between program team members and with Vice President, Conservation Policy and Programs to ensure and enhance communication within the team and achieve maximum effectiveness. Provides logistical and administrative support to the Austin office and program directors within the Conservation Policy and Programs portfolio. Responsible for the organization and coordination of the Austin, Texas office operations, procedures, and resources to facilitate organizational effectiveness and efficiency.

Program Coordination: Supports the Vice President, Conservation Policy and Programs to ensure team accountability through: facilitating timely completion of program deliverables; monitoring progress on program goals, expenditures, and available resources under comprehensive work plans; and assessing results and impact. Supervises regular programmatic reporting to accurately communicate success and effectiveness. Convenes meetings for status updates, problem solving, and work plan development, in consultation with Director of Program Development, to fully flesh out project development and on an ongoing, regular basis to facilitate communication of project progress across the organization.

Schedule Management: Judiciously manage the Vice President, Conservation Policy and Programs time in the office and offsite. Responsible for overseeing meeting and travel arrangements and associated logistical details. Responsible for scheduling meetings with the Executive Team, the Policy and Program Directors, or other senior staff as appropriate and preparing materials for the Vice President, Policy and Programs in preparation for these meetings, as well as circulating summary notes afterwards. Coordinates with other Ocean Conservancy staff to ensure timely completion of action items identified at meetings or otherwise specified by the Vice President, Conservation Policy and Programs. Ensures the Vice President, Conservation Policy and Program’s calendar is kept updated and accurate and that appropriate supporting arrangement for meetings are completed.

Qualifications:

  Three years or more of experience in project management preferred; with proven experience in fiduciary management.

  Working knowledge preferred in one or more of the following: marine/coastal ecosystems, human impacts and threats to oceans/coasts, ecosystem protection and management, and program management/strategic communication methods.

  Familiarity with U.S. or state fishery management systems, regulations and policy preferred.

  Proven ability to multi-task and handle a fast-paced work environment.

  Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential, as is the ability to communicate complex scientific or technical concepts to policy and lay audiences (writing samples will be requested).

  Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with past success in working collaboratively and functioning as part of a team.

  A strategic thinker who can bring the creativity, energy, discipline and commitment needed to help secure sustainable fisheries and restore and enhance the Gulf of Mexico.

  A high-level performer who remains attentive to details and adheres strictly to deadlines and deliverables while keeping a larger vision in mind while supporting accurate, timely, and powerful policy, products, and positions.

  Personable, passionate, productive, and focused on advancing the cause of ocean conservation.

  Proficient in Microsoft Office software and other standard office technologies.

  Bachelor’s degree or higher preferred in a relevant interdisciplinary specialty, such as management, communications, public policy, or another field closely related to coastal/marine affairs or environmental protection.

How to Apply: If you think you have what it takes to join Ocean Conservancy’s team, please send a cover letter speaking to your qualifications and abilities along with your resume and salary expectations to: [email protected] and note your name and “Special Assistant, Policy and Programs #1409” in the subject line.