Exciting Leadership Opportunity: Vice President and Director of the Columbus Center for Wildlife Conservation

The Columbus Center for Wildlife Conservation (CCWC), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds, is on a mission to "Empower People. Save Wildlife." Our focus on animal conservation, biodiversity, and sustainability is central to everything we do, and we strive to provide an inclusive experience for all who engage with us.

We are excited to announce a pivotal leadership opportunity: the Vice President and Director of the Columbus Center for Wildlife Conservation (CCWC). This role is critical not only for steering our conservation efforts locally and globally but also for spearheading our fundraising initiatives. As a key leader, you will be heavily responsible for developing and executing strategies to secure financial support, driving our mission forward, and fostering a culture of sustainability within and beyond our organization. If you are passionate about wildlife conservation and have a proven track record in fundraising, we invite you to join us in making a meaningful impact.

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop and implement the strategic vision and operational framework for the CCWC, overseeing key programs including but not limited to Partners in Conservation (PIC), the Ohio Center for Wildlife Conservation, Mission Conservation, and the Commitment to Conservation Award.
• Collaborate with senior leadership, Board members, staff, and stakeholders to set strategic goals, create implementation plans, and measure success.
• Represent the organization at national and international meetings, conferences, and seminars to build support for our conservation initiatives.

 Conservation and Culture:

• Foster a culture of conservation across the CCWC and CFZP, including the Zoo, Wilds, Zoombezi Bay, and Safari Golf.
• Cultivate a collaborative environment by nurturing existing partnerships and establishing new ones to enhance our conservation impact.
• Oversee conservation projects and staff involvement supported by the CCWC.

 People Management:

• Provide mentorship and delegate responsibilities to key positions, including the PIC Manager, and Conservation Biologists.
• Create and advocate for new positions that align with and advance the strategic vision and framework of the CCWC.
• Manage staff performance, conduct reviews, address performance challenges, celebrate successes, and prepare long-term departmental plans.

Philanthropy:

• Partner with the Philanthropy Department and Board Conservation Committee to expand funding and build relationships with new donors.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities for conservation programs.

 Financial Oversight:

• Oversee the CCWC budget, ensuring proper financial controls and collaboration with the Finance Department.

 Communication and Outreach:

• Write articles, present at conferences, and support staff presentations.
• Collaborate with the Zoo’s Communications department to create and implement strategies that promote sustainability efforts and conservation projects both internally and externally.
• Develop metrics to assess conservation impact and organize related seminars, lectures, and educational materials.

Leadership:

• Proven experience in advancing conservation and sustainability initiatives.
• At least ten years in a leadership role within a conservation-related field (e.g., Zoo, Field Project, Government, Academia).
• Strong fiscal management skills and the ability to cultivate funding through new donor relationships.
• Inspirational leadership skills with the ability to motivate staff, volunteers, and stakeholders.
• Strategic thinking and data-driven decision-making capabilities to guide the organization toward achieving its mission.
• High ethical standards with a commitment to transparency and accountability.

 Communication:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively articulate the organization’s mission and goals.
• Proven success in public speaking, including publishing and presenting scientific and conservation content.

 Business Acumen:

• In-depth knowledge of conservation and sustainability issues with a track record of staying current with trends.
• Familiarity with nonprofit operations, including fundraising, grant writing, program development, volunteer management, and compliance.

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field required; Master’s degree or PhD preferred.
• Experience in international travel and networking, including in underdeveloped countries and challenging conditions, preferred.
• Knowledge of laws and regulations governing nonprofit organizations, including tax-exempt status, reporting requirements, and employment laws.

 Other Requirements:

• Proficiency with relevant software and technology, including databases, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems, and office software.
• Flexible schedule with availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Ability to pass TB screening, adhere to drug-free workplace policies, and complete an annual criminal background check.

Join us in making a difference in wildlife conservation and sustainability. If you are a visionary leader passionate about driving impactful change, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.