[Hiring] Chief Programs Officer @Western Landowners Alliance

Role Description

The Chief Programs Officer (CPO) serves as a member of the Executive Leadership Team and provides strategic leadership, direction, and oversight of all of WLA's programmatic work (including water, wildlife, forest and range, conservation finance, and public policy). The CPO is responsible for ensuring that programs are aligned with WLA's mission and strategic priorities, effectively integrated across disciplines, and positioned to achieve measurable outcomes for private landowners and the landscapes they steward.

• In partnership with the President & CEO, develop and implement WLA's strategic vision and programmatic priorities.
• Provide executive leadership and oversight for all program areas (water, wildlife, forest & range, conservation finance, and public policy).
• Foster alignment, coordination, and collaboration across program areas.
• Establish annual programmatic priorities, department goals, performance metrics, and staff objectives.
• Oversee the successful execution of programmatic work plans, grant-funded initiatives, and strategic projects.
• Serve as a member of the Executive Leadership Team, contributing to organizational strategy and decision-making.
• Maintain regular communication with the President & CEO regarding programmatic opportunities and challenges.
• Collaborate with the Chief Advancement Officer to support fundraising efforts and programmatic communications.
• Represent WLA externally with policymakers, funders, partners, and other stakeholders.
• Partner with the Chief Operating Officer to align staffing and organizational resources with strategic priorities.
• Cultivate a high-performing, collaborative, and mission-driven program team.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in natural resources, public policy, economics, environmental science, or related field or equivalent work experience required; Advance degree preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive responsible leadership in conservation, natural resources management, public policy, agriculture, land stewardship, nonprofit management or a related field.
• Demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary teams and complex programs across multiple issue areas.
• Deep understanding of issues affecting private landowners, including water, wildlife, forest and range management, conservation finance, etc.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience serving as an organizational spokesperson and representing an organization before public audiences.
• Proven track record of securing, managing, and overseeing grant-funded programs.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; detail oriented, strong independent work ethic.
• Creative and positive approach to communication and problem solving.
• Willingness and ability to maintain confidential information and work with diverse populations.
• Strong technology literacy and adaptability.

Requirements

• 40 hours a week, exempt, Monday-Friday.
• This position is remote, but individuals must be located in the West.
• Periodic travel will be required.

Benefits

• Compensation: $115,000 to $140,000, commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off, parental leave, medical leave.
• 403b retirement savings account with a discretionary match.
• Life insurance, short and long-term disability benefits.
• Employee assistance program.

Application Procedure

Please submit your resume and cover letter (required) via our website. Please, no phone calls. Western Landowners Alliance values diversity and inclusivity and is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all team members. We encourage all qualified and interested candidates to apply.

Target Start Date

Immediately. Preference will be given to applications received by Monday, July 6th.