Job Details

Join to apply for the Vice President, Biodiversity Science role at Conservation International

Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.

POSITION SUMMARY

This position is preferably based in Arlington-VA, or Seattle-WA. Other options include Santa Barbara-CA (remote) and offices in the Americas: Bolivia, Brazil (remote), Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guyana, Mexico, Suriname, or Mexico.

The Betty and Gordon Moore Center for Science at Conservation International is a highly motivated team that leverages science to accelerate global conservation action. Our near-term goals by 2030 include increasing the impact of our science to help stabilize climate, doubling ocean protection, and expanding planet-positive economies. Under new leadership, the Center is shaping its strategy to meet CI's ambitious targets and deliver actionable science that supports field programs and partners worldwide.

The Vice President of Biodiversity Science will lead CI's efforts to integrate advanced biodiversity science into global policy, finance, and conservation strategies. Reporting to the Moore Center leader, the Vice President will oversee a dynamic team addressing key biodiversity challenges across themes such as policy and regulatory integration, nature markets and finance, biodiversity co-benefits of nature-based solutions, and developing strategies for biodiversity monitoring and evaluation.

This role involves setting strategic vision, driving research, developing insights, and collaborating across teams to ensure biodiversity science informs CI's mission and global impact. The Vice President will also foster partnerships, secure funding, and deliver science-based solutions aligned with global goals for climate, nature, and sustainable development.

The position requires engaging with senior stakeholders internally and externally, leveraging partnerships to secure funding, and delivering impactful scientific outputs including peer-reviewed publications. The Vice President is responsible for managing a diverse and complex program, motivating team members, and making decisions that impact CI's resources and reputation.

Responsibilities:

1. Champion adaptive management and lead teams to deliver high-impact projects and partnerships.
2. Align biodiversity research with CI's Science Agenda and priorities.
3. Contribute to the strategic planning efforts and create long-term outcomes and work plans.
4. Provide leadership and expertise in implementing the Science division agenda.
5. Identify and develop new innovative projects and programs.
6. Lead fundraising initiatives, aiming to raise $2-3 million annually.
7. Engage with institutional partners and represent CI externally.
8. Publish research in peer-reviewed journals.
9. Develop technical materials for high-level stakeholders.
10. Represent CI in global forums to promote biodiversity science integration.

Additional Responsibilities:

Develop biodiversity science initiatives across themes such as policy, finance, co-benefits of NBS, and monitoring strategies.

Oversee research programs, develop tools for biodiversity monitoring, and support CI teams in integrating science into climate and oceans initiatives. Manage a team of 10+ scientists, fostering collaboration and professional growth.

People and Resource Management:

• Manage a large or high-visibility program.
• Oversee budget and human resources.
• Motivate and manage team members.

Working Conditions:

• Office environment with frequent international travel (>25%).
• Hybrid work structure with some days remote and some in-office.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Ph.D. in conservation, environmental, or ecological science or related field.
• 15+ years in conservation science or research, with strategy and program management experience.
• 7+ years in biodiversity policy, finance, or markets.
• 5+ years of supervisory experience.
• Proven track record in scientific research management and fundraising.
• Strong publication record and communication skills.

Preferred:

• Expertise in biodiversity finance, markets, and monitoring frameworks.
• Experience leading interdisciplinary teams and securing funding.

To apply, submit a resume and cover letter. See all Conservation International career opportunities HERE

Conservation International is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

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