Water Program Director, Oregon Environmental Council
Organization: Oregon Environmental Council
Position Title: Water Program Director
Location: Portland, Oregon
Application Deadline: July 7, 2015
Description: After nine years with Oregon Environmental Council (OEC), two key program directors who lead our sustainable agriculture and clean and plentiful water programs are departing for their next professional challenge. We will begin to fill their shoes by hiring a water program director whose main responsibilities will include: (1) strengthening partnerships to mobilize support and achieve significant protections for Oregon’s waters; (2) protecting the quality of Oregon’s groundwater; and (3) advancing top-tier recommendations for protecting the Willamette River System. We seek a candidate who has working knowledge of water quality and quantity issues, policy analysis and experience advancing policy solutions, and a demonstrated ability to work respectfully with agricultural leaders, conservationists and others to advance water protections.
Responsibilities:
Policy/Project Development and Project Management
- Formulates ideas for new projects; develops project implementation plans
- Develops policy proposals and campaigns
- Ensures that policies and projects are evaluated for equity implications
- Implements projects and policy campaigns, meeting agreed-upon deliverables
- Investigates and analyzes issues germane to program; reviews relevant professional materials and communications on a continuing basis
Advocacy
- Develops and maintains collaborative relationships with key interest groups and individuals, including policymakers and agency staff
- Builds broad support for program goals and project objectives, including engaging in public speaking
- Prepares and presents public comments and testimony; lobbies Oregon Legislature and other electeds
Outreach and Education
- Produces reports, fact sheets, opinion pieces, and other communication tools to support policy proposals and project objectives, often with support from our marketing/communications team
- Occasionally develops and implements public education and “things you can do” campaigns related to specific projects
- Actively seeks earned media
- Serves as an ambassador for OEC, building OEC’s public presence and securing new members
- Educates and engages OEC supporters through website communications, articles in e-bulletin and print newsletter, personal interactions, and other communications
Fundraising
- Writes program-related grant proposals; meets with foundation officers and other potential funders; writes progress reports
- Assists development staff with fundraising appeals and events
- Actively seeks new sources of financial support
Qualifications:
Required:
- Minimum five years of professional experience in public policy development and advocacy, public affairs, or other related field, preferably in a water- or agriculture- related position
- A demonstrated understanding of agriculture and a commitment to ensuring the economic and environmental success of Oregon farmers and ranchers
- Proven ability to bring stakeholders together and work strategically to secure policy changes and other program objectives
- A gift for writing and speaking in a clear and compelling fashion
- Strong organizational skills; ability to manage multiple projects without losing sight of the “big picture”
- Self-motivation and initiative
- An eagerness to work collaboratively in a dynamic team environment
- A passion for OEC’s mission
- Bachelor’s degree; relevant advanced degree preferred
Desirable:
- Existing relationships with Oregon agriculturalists, state agencies, conservation groups, and local governments
- Experience working in a non-profit setting with a mission-driven staff and board
- Experience in communications or marketing
- A sense of humor
How to Apply: No calls, please. The position will be open until filled, but we will begin reviewing applications on July 7, 2015. Send cover letter and resume via email to [email protected]with subject line “Water Program Director.”
