Deputy Director

~ Community Conservation Solutions (CCS) is a dynamic, cutting-edge conservation non-profit organization that pioneers the forward-thinking, strategic changes that are essential to solve the complex environmental problems created where people and nature intersect. This includes improving water quality and water supplies, restoring habitat, and preserving precious open space. ~

CCS implements innovative, practical conservation projects that create permanent public benefits. CCS integrates a wide range of science and technology, habitat restoration, geospatial data analysis and planning, community outreach, public finance, legal analysis and public policy to achieve success. Current projects include the Green Solution Program, which develops water sustainability throughout California, and the L.A. River Greenway Trail Project.

For more information, please visit our website. 

Position Overview

Community Conservation Solutions seeks a talented and dynamic Deputy Director. As second in command, the Deputy Director will share in the responsibility of the success of the organization by articulating and implementing CCS' mission.

Working directly with the President, the Deputy Director will oversee the organization's projects and programs; develop and secure funding for new projects; direct staff and manage teams of multi-disciplinary technical, science, design and planning experts; participate in policy development and fundraising; guide GIS data analysis; oversee construction and native habitat restoration projects; engage with funders, partners, and the greater community; and plan and execute community outreach initiatives.

The Deputy Director must have demonstrated experience in the environmental and land conservation field and an interest in making a difference in the world of conservation. S/he must have experience in managing and developing projects and a proven track record of securing public and/or private project funding. Candidates must be engaging, innovative, and interested in advancing their career in the environmental field, and have a desire to develop and apply executive leadership skills.

Responsibilities

The Deputy Director's duties include:

Leadership and Development

• Establish and maintain relationships with public agencies, policy makers, foundations, corporations, community groups, and government officials to support CCS' mission.
• Develop new programs, projects, and funding, as well as the public and private partnerships necessary to carrying out those programs and projects. 
• Communicate on behalf of CCS to the media at meetings and events and to outside groups.
• Work with the President to maintain public relations, communications, and social media documents and materials.
• Collaborate with the Fiscal Manager and President on annual budget planning, quarterly financial reviews and reporting, grant tracking, and financial forecasting.
• Assist the President and partners in developing new state, regional, and local public policies related to CCS' water sustainability projects.
• Engage with the Board and assist in updating CCS' Strategic Plan and Annual Report.

Project Management

• Manage CCS projects and direct project teams, technical studies, geospatial data analysis, and mapping.
• Negotiate and manage scopes of work, contracts, and budgets and ensure on-time completion of deliverables.
• Provide oversight and management of restoration and construction projects.
• Develop and produce project reports, publicity materials, and web-based outreach.
• Ensure that project and funder needs are met.

Staff Management

• Assist in directing staff across all program areas in pursuit of CCS' mission, goals, and organizational excellence.
• Assist with the management of outside consultants to further CCS' water sustainability, land protection, communications, and marketing work.
• Participate in the hiring, performance management, and disciplinary action of all staff.
• Mentor and inspire staff to achieve a highly engaged and cohesive team in an intellectually rigorous environment.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will have the following minimum qualifications:

• Minimum of eight years of experience in environmental, conservation, or a related field, including a minimum of three years of senior-level management of complex projects with multiple timelines, complex data requirements, and diverse team members; comparable experience will be considered
• B.A. or B.S. degree in Environmental Science, Natural Resources, Planning, Public Policy or a related field
• Working knowledge of California water issues, environmental regulations, and current policy directions and events. Experience in Southern California preferred
• Knowledge of the land conservation and/or water sustainability community
• Demonstrated experience in developing new projects and in securing public or private grants/funding
• Proven track record in maintaining relationships with government agencies, foundations, corporations, and other non-profit organizations
• Experience with managing budgets 
• Superior writing and communication skills
• A high degree of proficiency in Microsoft Office and computer platforms
• Excellent public speaking and presentation skills; ability to effectively persuade and motivate others
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail; ability to prioritize and effectively handle multiple tasks
• Outstanding planning and analytical skills
• Self-motivation and a highly organized nature
• Agility, with problem-solving skills and ability to think "outside the box"
• Ability to work independently, while still being a strong team player
• A well-developed sense of humor 
• A passion for land and water conservation 
• Commitment to the mission of Community Conservation Solutions

Compensation: Community Conservation Solutions offers a competitive salary that is commensurate with experience, and a benefits package that reflects CCS' strong commitment to employees. Benefits include health, vision and dental; salary deferral plan for retirement; and holidays and sick leave. 

To Apply

To be considered for this position, interested candidates must click below: "Apply Here!" to submit a resume, cover letter, and salary requirements. CEA Recruiting is assisting Community Conservation Solutions with this search. Please direct all applications and inquiries to CEA Recruiting. This position will remain open until filled. 

~ Community Conservation Solutions is an equal opportunity employer. ~

CEA Recruiting works with leading environmental nonprofits, foundations, and businesses to recruit top talent and design effective organizational staffing strategies. Click here for more information.