The Government Relations Associate provides research and policy analysis in support of The Nature Conservancy’s policy priorities and tracks legislation, regulations and other policies and decisions that directly affect conservation goals. S/he builds and facilitates internal networks, coordinating meetings, agendas, and presentations. S/he provides services that assist in influencing the outcome of policy initiatives at the state and federal levels. S/he develops strategic partnerships with relevant agencies, conservation organizations, and industry to advance the organization’s conservation agenda.



RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE

May supervise administrative staff and/or volunteers, interns, or temporary staff.



Financial responsibility to complete projects appropriately, and assist with budget development and meeting fundraising goals for local and worldwide conservation.



Ensures program compliance with internal policies and external requirements.



Works within scope of program’s strategic goals.



Tracking, monitoring and analyzing legislative and regulatory processes and documents, and attending hearings, workgroups, and other meetings as needed.



Provides assistance with preparation of program materials including presentations, memos, and other communications.



Coordinating workgroup meetings and legislative visits.



Influences the outcome of policy and/or corporate initiatives at the state and federal levels.



Develops strategic partnerships with elected officials, relevant agencies, conservation organizations, and industry.



Work independently, working with supervisor as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree and 3 years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.



Fluency in English.



Experience researching information from divergent sources and compiling it into a cohesive reporting structure.



Experience with legislative, regulatory or other policy or initiatives at two or more of the following levels: international, country, sub-national, or local.



Experience presenting to and communicating with government or corporate staff and/or program leadership.



Experience working with nonprofit organization partners and government agencies.



Must have valid driver’s license, safe driving record (per TNC’s Auto Safety Program).

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural experience appreciated.

Experience in writing formal correspondence, drafting policy analysis memos, and interpreting legislative language and reports.

Experience with current political and conservation trends and issues in Virginia, and familiarity legislative and regulatory processes.

Experience, coursework, or other training in sustainability or political science.

Experience coordinating complex projects in a decentralized organization, working across teams, operating units and functions to achieve optimal results.

Experience building networks or organizational capacity, facilitating informational sessions, increasing internal knowledge and capacity, and identifying key stakeholders.

Experience negotiating complex agreements and contracts.

Self-starting, independent worker who can thrive in a decentralized organization with minimal oversight.

AUTO SAFETY POLICY

This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with the Conservancy's Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." Please see further details in the Auto Safety Program document available at www.nature.org/careers .

Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.