Vice President, Great Plains Program

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is one of the world's leading conservation organizations, dedicated to preserving the natural world and addressing the most pressing environmental challenges. Established in 1961, WWF operates in over 100 countries and has a global network of more than 5 million supporters. The organization focuses on various conservation efforts, including wildlife protection, habitat preservation, and sustainable resource management, with a mission to build a future in which people live in harmony with nature.

Job Overview:
The Vice President, Great Plains Program at WWF will serve as a key leader responsible for developing and communicating a strategic vision for the Great Plains Program (GP). This role involves negotiating on behalf of the GP, securing necessary resources, and overseeing fundraising and communication efforts. The VP will also manage a cross-functional team working towards common objectives and will coordinate WWF-US’s Central Grasslands and Freshwater Systems Priority Place strategy. The position requires a strong commitment to conservation and the ability to lead diverse teams in achieving strategic goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Vice President include:

• Strategic Vision: Define and articulate the results required to achieve the GP Program’s five-year strategy and long-term objectives; develop comprehensive long-range plans; balance long-term priorities with immediate demands when setting goals, timelines, and resource allocations.
• Negotiations and Partnering: Build and sustain strategic partnerships; negotiate agreements for mutual success; represent WWF’s ambitions while co-creating practical strategies; foster strong relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Communications and Fundraising: Champion program initiatives; lead major fundraising efforts; engage policymakers and key audiences; build public awareness through strategic communications; achieve annual fundraising goals.
• Team Building and Management: Build and lead diverse teams; collaborate across the organization; establish clear goals and performance expectations; foster a high-performance culture through recognition and professional development.
• Creativity & Innovation: Apply innovative thinking to address challenges; develop forward-thinking solutions; foster a culture of continuous learning; demonstrate adaptability in responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Vice President position include:

• Education/Experience: A Master’s degree or equivalent experience in conservation, natural resource management, or a related field is required.
• Experience: A minimum of 12 years of experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role managing staff and large, complex conservation programs.
• Skills and Abilities: Deep understanding of grassland ecology and conservation planning; demonstrated success in strategic planning and fundraising; proven experience in building partnerships across sectors; strong communication skills; excellent facilitation and negotiation skills; ability to lead and manage teams; experience managing budgets and staff performance; strong analytical and strategic thinking skills; high degree of professionalism and integrity; commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion principles.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent experience in relevant fields such as conservation, natural resource management, or a related discipline. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of conservation efforts and the management of natural resources.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 12 years of relevant experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role. This experience should include managing staff and overseeing large, complex programs focused on conservation, demonstrating a strong track record of success in these areas.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication. Additional languages may be beneficial for engaging with diverse stakeholders and partners in various regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and requires relocation to Bozeman, Montana. The salary range for this role is between $175,800 and $252,70

• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. and this position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. The role may require travel up to 30% of the time. WWF promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals regardless of age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, or veteran status.