Director of Outreach and Education

~ The Michigan Nature Association (MNA) is a nonprofit conservation organization working to protect Michigan's rare, threatened and endangered species by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive. ~

Established in 1952, MNA's members, donors, and volunteers have built a remarkable network of more than 170 nature sanctuaries across the state – the largest network of natural areas established and maintained by a nonprofit conservation organization in Michigan.

Position Overview

The Michigan Nature Association, a statewide land conservation organization headquartered in Okemos, Michigan, is seeking exceptional candidates for our Director of Outreach and Education position.

The Director of Outreach and Education will report to the Executive Director. The Director of Outreach and Education plays a central role in MNA's mission and programs; specifically, in raising awareness of the importance of protecting Michigan's rare, threatened and endangered species and imperiled natural communities, and in MNA's efforts to support environmental education and inspire future generations to value and care for Michigan's unique natural heritage.

Responsibilities

Outreach:

• Assist the Executive Director in developing and leading an effective multiple-channel statewide communications strategy that supports MNA's conservation, education and fundraising goals
• Assist the Executive Director in developing and implementing a comprehensive fundraising program, including implementing a targeted moves management approach to securing major gifts and planned gifts
• Manage and assist MNA's Communications Coordinator in the regular production of print publications and content for digital platforms, including Michigan Nature magazine, MNA's annual report, sanctuary guidebooks, educational materials, MNA's website and social media, etc.

Education:

• Promote MNA's education mini-grant program and university outreach initiatives in conjunction with regional conservation staff
• Work with the conservation staff to develop new initiatives that link people with MNA's mission, including Citizen Science projects, service learning opportunities, and other community engagement initiatives
• Assist in the development of a series of vibrant and growing education based outreach events, such as MNA's statewide "Race for Michigan Nature" series of 5k runs as well as education and outreach programming at MNA's headquarters

General:

• Develop an integrated communications and fundraising annual calendar linked to education, outreach and other programmatic initiatives and events
• Serve as liaison to conservation organizations and agencies, including Michigan's land conservancy community, for collaboration or joint initiatives that support MNA's mission and its strategic conservation and education goals
• Participate in key decisions as a member of the senior management team

Qualifications

• Demonstrated leadership, including 10 years of experience in conservation, environmental education and/or nonprofit management
• Bachelor's degree in a related field
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Familiarity with the principles of nonprofit fundraising
• Knowledge of and commitment to MNA's mission
• Proficiency with Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint and other general business software programs

Compensation: Salary will be commensurate with education and experience. Position offers health insurance benefits (with certain co-pays), life insurance, disability insurance, paid vacation, and a 403(b) savings plan.

To Apply

Please click below: "Apply" to upload your cover letter including salary requirements, resume, at least one relevant writing sample, and at least three professional references to Paul Steiner, Operations Director.