Program Manager, Public Lands Defense

The Wyss Foundation works with non-governmental research and advocacy organizations, governmental agencies, and other charitable foundations to protect, preserve, and restore the public lands, waters, and open spaces of the American West. 

The Program Manager for Public Land Defense will implement strategic grantmaking initiatives to protect western public lands through proposal review and analysis and technical assistance to potential and current grantees. Particular program areas include threats caused by unsustainable mining, grazing, energy development, and off-road vehicle use. 

The Program Manager reports to the Executive Director located in Washington, D.C., and works collaboratively with Foundation staff. The day-to-day work of the Program Manager is self-directed, and will involve travel throughout the western United States. 

Responsibilities: 

* Work with grantees to develop timely and complete grant proposals. Communicate regularly with the Executive Director and other Wyss staff about proposals and letters of inquiry; 
* Research and provide recommendations on assigned active proposals and new proposals; 
* Evaluate and monitor grants through site visits/telephone interviews, review of reports and other methods; document progress of grant portfolio, review and refresh program directions and identify new opportunities for Foundation involvement; 
* Advance opportunities for collaboration with the donor community to leverage grant resources;
* Prepare grant-related correspondence, including customized grantee award packages; 
* Prepare materials such as memos and reports for the Board of Trustees and present information at board meetings and professional gatherings; 
* Convene meetings of grantees, donors, and others on topics related to the program's grantmaking interests; 
* Coordinate the work of consultants in support of Foundation goals;
* Work with other foundations, environmental and citizen groups and related campaigns to ensure Foundation efforts are effectively coordinated;
* Represent the Foundation at meetings on an as needed basis; 
* Assist the Executive Director with research projects as needed. 

This position will also be responsible for other duties as required to support Foundation responsibilities. It is anticipated that over time the general and specific responsibilities are likely to change as the Foundation's activities and resources change. Flexibility and a willingness to work in a team environment are essential. 

Education & Experience:

* Bachelors degree in related field; advanced degree a plus;
* Two years of work experience in environment/public lands advocacy, outreach, communications, policy, or conservation; 
* Experience working with grassroots organizations, nonprofits, and coalitions; familiarity with private philanthropy a plus;
* Knowledge of western public land issues and natural resource management; 
* Strong organization and communication skills, written and verbal; 
* Intellectual agility and the ability to analyze, think critically, and understand emerging issues that are directly relevant to programmatic funding areas;
* Ability to work as part of a team; 
* Ability to prioritize daily and long-term work assignments, meet deadlines, and manage ongoing paper flow; 
* Enthusiasm for the Foundation's mission; 
* Extensive travel; overtime required.

Compensation and Benefits: The Foundation offers a full benefit package. Salary commensurate with experience. 

Interested candidates should send a cover letter and resume preferably by email. 

Francesca Di Silvio
Office Manager
1601 Connecticut Ave, NW, Suite 802
Washington, DC 20009