Executive Officer, San Diego River Conservancy – California

Organization: San Diego River Conservancy

Position Title: Executive Officer

Location: San Diego, California

Compensation: The annual salary range for the Executive Officer is $7,406 – 8,250/month. The appointee will be offered a specific salary from within this range based on his/her qualifications. As an employee of the State of California, the Executive Officer also receives a comprehensive benefit plan.

Application Deadline: June 19, 2015

Description: As directed by the Board, the Executive Officer is responsible for the execution of SDRC’s programs, planning, and fiscal management. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Implement the Conservancy’s new Prop1 grant program, including project solicitation, applicant/project interviews, grant proposal ranking, staff recommendations for Board approval and grant administration
• Providing information, support and expert policy advice and recommendations to the Governing Board regarding the programs, projects and priorities of SDRC.
• Planning, organizing and directing the program functions and staff of SDRC
• Assisting the Governing Board in the implementation of several foundation documents that include but not limited to the San Diego River Park Master Plan (2013), the San Diego River Conservancy Act (Pub. Resources Code, §§ 32630-32661), SDRC Five-Year Strategic and Infrastructure Plan, the 2012-2017 Update and SDRC Annual Work Plans.
• Maintaining a high level of communication with the Executive and Legislative Branches of State Government with respect to coordinating programs, securing ongoing funding, implementing current projects, addressing legislative concerns, and responding to inquiries in a timely and effective manner.
• Coordinating with partner agencies, particularly the cities of San Diego, Santee, the County of San Diego and non profits to develop project priorities and funding sources.
• Ensuring compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and other statutes and regulations applicable to SDRC’s activities.
• Developing and implementing funding programs, including grants and other fund raising activities.
• Representing SDRC in relations with the general public, community groups, media and other interested constituencies.

Qualifications: The ideal candidate is a motivated, adaptable and innovative leader with experience in the management of conservation programs. A familiarity with public and private financing, particularly, general obligation bond funded grant programs is preferred. The successful candidate will be a seasoned executive from the public and/or private sector, with land conservation, environmental planning, and/or non-profit management experience, who will possess the strategic understanding, relationship skills, and political astuteness to implement the Board’s vision.

Particularly desirable are: the ability to maintain an effective administrative structure and build partnerships, knowledge of State and local government budget and procurement practices and processes, and experience in fund raising. Other helpful attributes are familiarity with land acquisition techniques, habitat restoration, trail development, the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), site improvement projects, contract negotiation and management of natural resources and public facilities.

Specific qualifications are as follows: Education and Experience Extensive professional experience in land conservation, environmental planning or protection, or related field, with at least five years of management experience is expected. A Bachelor’s degree is required. A Master’s or professional degree in a related field, such as urban planning environmental resources, business, law, or public administration is preferred.

Competencies and Personal Characteristics In addition to the above, the ideal candidate will: • work effectively with a variety of agencies and individuals representing a broad range of interests and issues • be able to understand complex issues and interrelationships, including natural processes • be an able problem-solver and team builder • be a strong and decisive leader, who knows when to act • be an effective communicator, both orally and in writing • be collaborative; a facilitator of consensus • be politically aware and sensitive • handle multiple priorities effectively • be calm under pressure and possess a good sense of humor

How to Apply: To be considered for this position, please submit a resume and cover letter, including current salary and the names of four workrelated references, directly to:

Kevin McKernan & Julia Richards

San Diego River Conservancy

1350 Front Street, Suite 3024 San Diego, CA 92101

Tel: 619 / 645-3183 Fax: 619 / 238-7068

Email to both : [email protected] & [email protected]

SDRC web site: http://sdrc.ca.gov/

The filing date for this position is June 19, 2015. Following the filing date, resumes will be screened in relation to the criteria outlined in this announcement. A few candidates with the most relevant qualifications will be given interviews in July. An offer of appointment is anticipated in early August following full reference and background checks, and a final interview with SDRC Governing Board.