Vice President of Ecology and Climate

The Trustees of Reservations•Boston, MA

20d•$148,750 - $191,250•Hybrid

About The Position

As the Vice President of Ecology and Climate, you will lead statewide strategies that shape how The Trustees manage, steward, and restore forests, grasslands, wetlands, coastal systems, and farmland. You will guide the organization in science‑based decision‑making and ensure our land management practices develop and reflect best practices in conservation and climate resilience. This role leads the development and execution of organization‑wide ecology, agriculture and climate strategies and oversees major initiatives in habitat protection, climate adaptation, and sustainable land use to address the dual crises of biodiversity loss and climate change. You will be responsible for setting priorities, managing a high‑performing professional team, and collaborating with program, stewardship, and regional leaders.

Requirements

Master’s degree in environmental science, natural resource management, ecology, conservation biology, or related field.
15+ years of experience in nature conservation, with a minimum of 5-7 years in a leadership role.
Demonstrated expertise in land management practices, conservation strategies, climate adaptation, and environmental policies.
Experience leading strategic initiatives and managing complex portfolios.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
Experience in stakeholder engagement and community outreach.
Current authorization to work in the United States – a candidate must have such authorization by his or her first day of employment
A satisfactory criminal background (CORI) check

Nice To Haves

Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a passion for data-driven decision-making.
Experience managing cross‑functional or matrixed teams.
Experience developing budgets for large, multi‑year conservation or climate initiatives.
Proven success in receiving and administering complex multi-year grants for restoration, habitat management, climate adaptation, and agricultural sustainability/research.
Background in agroecology, climate‑smart agriculture, or applied ecological research.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement comprehensive strategies for the sustainable management of forests, grasslands, wetlands, and coastal areas that enhance The Trustees' mission and deliver successful results.
Articulate and implement priorities, strategies, and targets in concert with other Trustees’ program areas of conservation and resilience, urban outdoors, arts and culture, property stewardship, and recreation and public engagement.
Lead and mentor a team of ecology, agriculture, project management and habitat management professionals, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement towards achieving priorities.
Utilize strong collaboration skills, working in a matrixed environment in partnership with other parts of the organization toward shared goals.
Oversee the design and implementation of ecology, agriculture and climate resilience programs aligned with The Trustees’ Strategic Plan and synergy between programs.
Oversee best‑in‑class stewardship practices that support 167 rare species and 20+ rare habitat types.
Develop and oversee program budgets, ensuring efficient resource allocation and alignment with funding opportunities.
Represent The Trustees with government partners, conservation coalitions, research institutions, and community organizations.
Serve as a leading voice for science‑based conservation and climate policy in Massachusetts.
Provide data‑driven insights and recommendations on emerging environmental trends.
Provide guidance to education, engagement, marketing and stewardship teams that align Ecology and Climate team goals with visitor and public engagement.

Benefits

Sick time: 80 hours
Vacation time: 15 days per year
Early release time: 36 hours per year
Floating holidays/personal days: 15 Floating Holidays (13 observed holidays; 2 floating)
Health insurance: You are eligible to participate in the Trustees health insurance benefit via Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS). BCBS also offer additional benefits, such as fitness reimbursement and rewards for healthy habits.
Short and Long Term Disability Insurance
Massachusetts Paid Family Medical Leave
Life Insurance
401k with 5% match after 1 year of employment
Employee Assistance Program: Free access to a confidential service that helps employees and their communities with personal and work-related issues, such as mental health support, counseling, and financial advice.
Reciprocity: Employees have access to free and discounted admissions and memberships to more than 50 nearby museums and cultural institutions.
Discounts: Enjoy free entry to all Trustees properties, discount event tickets, and discounted merchandise at our stores and on stays at our inns.
Day of Wonder: Spend one workday per year to exploring a Trustees’ property
Day of Service: Spend one workday per year to helping with a project at a Trustees property