CHIEF CONSERVATION OFFICER

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF) is a mission-driven non-profit dedicated to ensuring the future of elk, other wildlife, their habitat and our hunting heritage. Since our founding in 1984, we have helped conserve nearly one square mile of elk country every day. In partnership with others, we have conserved or enhanced more than 9.2 million acres, including improving public access to more than 1.6 million acres. Our impact will extend to 10 million acres by 2030. Building on this momentum, RMEF is seeking an experienced and strategic Chief Conservation Officer (CCO) to serve as member of the leadership team. The CCO is responsible for building multi-sector and multi-stakeholder partnerships focused on mission delivery and future initiatives. The CCO oversees advocacy and governmental affairs, representing RMEF with federal and state agencies, NGOs and other associated groups/individuals supporting impactful mission delivery. This position serves as a key representative of the organization's conservation priorities with appropriate decision-makers, partners, donors, our membership, and the public.

Key Responsibilities:

Advise the CEO and Executive Team on positioning of RMEF conservation programs Provide strategic input in the development and implementation of mission initiatives Oversee advocacy work of the organization on a federal, state, and local level Serve as a co-liaison or advisor role with board committees, sub-committees, and working groups Ensure that RMEF is informed, engaged and well-represented on issues and communications within relevant scientific, conservation, governmental and sportsmen communities Serve as a key resource in maintaining RMEF's role as the go-to authority on elk Represent RMEF at national, and some state, government meetings/events to sustain RMEF's highly respected reputation, as well as secure organizational support and funding Assist in forming and strategizing RMEF positions on relevant issues Represent RMEF on national-level groups, and as necessary at the regional level, and leverage these networks to assist RMEF with development and mission accomplishment Identify and cultivate relationships with corporations, private landowners, foundations, government agencies, and others to secure funds and position RMEF as a respected leader in the conservation world This is an extraordinary opportunity for a senior conservation leader to help shape the future of conservation in a dynamic, mission-driven environment.

Location:

The CCO position is based at RMEF Headquarters in Missoula, Montana, full-time.

Qualifications :

Bachelor's degree in natural resources or a related field Eight-plus years of experience working in natural resources Five years of experience working in a senior-level leadership position Strong emphasis on land management, lands administration, natural resource policy, or environmental planning Experience working with federal, state, or national conservation organizations and issues Demonstrated experience in supervision, leadership, organizational management, and program management Experience in public relations is desirable

Physical Demands:

This position will encounter both office and field conditions Office work will require sitting or standing for extended periods of time, frequent use of office equipment such as telephones and computers Frequent travel by automobile, airplane, foot, or mechanized ORV's will be required. Walking, hiking, climbing, and riding may all be required To apply, please refer to www.rmef.org/careers .