Vice President of Regional Operations

ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION

In today's world, environmental stewardship is more crucial than ever. The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is seeking a Regional Vice President for Saskatchewan, who will be part of a dedicated team focused on safeguarding our vital natural landscapes that support all forms of life.

NCC stands as the foremost non-governmental organization in Canada dedicated to land conservation. As a charitable entity, we collaborate with individuals, Indigenous communities, corporations, governmental bodies, and other non-profits to protect our most cherished natural assets and implement nature-based solutions. Our approach is rooted in collaboration and evidence, enabling us to fulfill our mission effectively. Since our inception in 1962, NCC and its partners have successfully conserved over 15 million hectares across the country.

The Regional Vice President for Saskatchewan will lead and oversee NCC's initiatives within the province.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Reporting to the Vice President of Operations, the Regional Vice President (RVP) for Saskatchewan is a vital member of both the Senior Management Team (SLT) and the Operations Leadership Team (OLT), collaborating closely with a Regional Advisory Board. The RVP will provide leadership, direction, and support to all regional staff and operational functions to advance NCC's goals within Saskatchewan.

By working alongside other senior leaders and engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders, the RVP will utilize advanced interpersonal skills to articulate a compelling vision that inspires enthusiasm and commitment to NCC's mission. They will ensure sustained growth for NCC in Saskatchewan by enhancing its visibility among major donors, partners, and the conservation community.

With a strong focus on translating thought leadership into actionable strategies, the RVP will manage a budget of approximately $12 million and lead a team of around 30 employees. They will also strengthen relationships with various partners, including Indigenous Peoples, government entities, community organizations, volunteers, donors, and supporters. By fostering key local and regional partnerships, the RVP will ensure the ongoing success and sustainability of NCC's strategic priorities, serving as a passionate ambassador for the organization.

This role may be performed remotely or in a hybrid format from a major urban center in Saskatchewan and will require travel to NCC regional offices and other locations as necessary.

The RVP will be responsible for planning, coordinating, implementing, and assessing operational outputs and results within the broader context of NCC's objectives. They will translate strategic goals into actionable plans that utilize various platforms and channels. As a change agent and inspirational leader, the RVP will embody NCC's commitment to equity and inclusion, ensuring that the organization's actions, communications, and partnerships reflect the rich diversity of the communities we serve.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement annual strategies and deliverables to ensure the Saskatchewan Region achieves high-profile conservation outcomes, both independently and collaboratively.
• Position NCC for sustained growth by strategically enhancing its profile among major donors, partners, and the conservation community.
• Foster a unified messaging approach across the Saskatchewan team and NCC to achieve a cohesive brand expression and strategic direction.
• In collaboration with senior staff, prepare and execute annual regional business plans aligned with NCC's strategic goals.
• Oversee conservation planning and reporting at various scales, contributing to the preservation of significant natural areas and enhancing landscape resilience.
• Collaborate across the organization to promote key NCC initiatives.
• Actively seek and leverage opportunities for NCC's growth and collaboration.
• Raise funds for operational needs, conservation projects, and endowment through major gifts and donor stewardship.

Public and Government Relations

• Build and maintain broad public support for the protection of natural diversity in Saskatchewan.
• Collaborate with governmental agencies at local, provincial, and federal levels to further NCC's mission.
• Lead outreach initiatives in Saskatchewan to promote NCC's work to potential supporters and the public.
• Develop and maintain an effective Regional Advisory Board, providing support and seeking advice from its members.
• Represent NCC's interests to landowners, media, government agencies, non-profits, Indigenous Peoples, and other stakeholders.

Performance Evaluation

• Establish benchmarks and metrics to monitor progress towards NCC's strategic goals in Saskatchewan.
• Identify and report on key performance indicators related to plan implementation.
• Utilize data to recommend strategic adjustments as necessary.
• Provide updates to stakeholders regarding operational performance and areas for improvement.
• Oversee financial resource management, ensuring compliance with regional controls and reporting standards.

Team Development

• Oversee regional staffing activities, including hiring, retention, and development of a multidisciplinary team.
• Support team members in reaching their full potential and improving their contributions.
• Communicate effectively to ensure clarity of roles and contributions in relation to NCC's vision.
• Regularly engage with direct reports to track progress towards goals.
• Model exemplary behaviors aligned with NCC's values of Big Thinking, Collaboration, Determination, and Empowerment.

Operational Excellence

• Provide leadership to maximize operational efficiencies within the Saskatchewan team.
• Manage risks effectively and in alignment with NCC's policies and standards.
• Ensure responsible stewardship of lands under NCC's management.
• Review and coordinate regional fundraising proposals for accuracy and compliance.
• Approve contracts and project commitments within delegated authority.
• Build trusting relationships with regional teams and external partners.
• Recommend and implement strategies to optimize program delivery in Saskatchewan.

CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader with a proven track record in senior management roles, bringing vision, managerial expertise, and exceptional communication skills to the organization. They possess the ability to inspire and engage team members, fostering a collaborative environment.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

• A minimum of 5 years in a senior leadership role focused on operational delivery.
• Progressive experience in a complex organizational setting.
• A strong project portfolio demonstrating effective communication initiatives with measurable outcomes.
• Bilingualism in French and English is an asset.
• A relevant undergraduate or graduate degree or equivalent experience.
• Knowledge of the non-profit sector is advantageous.
• A strong passion for conservation and NCC's mission.

CANDIDATE ATTRIBUTES

Leadership

The candidate is a visible leader and consensus builder, able to communicate a compelling vision that fosters collaboration and innovation. They instill confidence and inspire contributions from all team members.

Results-Oriented

They set high performance expectations and possess the tenacity to address complex challenges, taking personal responsibility for achieving outcomes.

Strategic Thinking

• Ability to articulate a future vision and translate it into actionable strategies.
• Collaborative approach to shaping the future of NCC.
• Ability to convey NCC's mission and vision to cultivate a strong organizational purpose.

Relationship Management

• Skilled in building and managing effective relationships across various stakeholders.
• Long-term perspective in addressing partner needs.
• Ability to activate diverse groups to achieve optimal results.

Business Acumen

• Strong understanding of business and financial concepts.
• Ability to analyze data and adopt best practices from partners.

Effective Communication

• Exceptional interpersonal skills for establishing productive relationships.
• Ability to influence through strong oral and written communication.
• Commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

COMPENSATION

A competitive compensation package, including a base salary and benefits, will be provided.

NCC is an equal-opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.