Australia Data and Science Director — 14-Month Impact Lead

The Nature Conversancy; Sydney; Remote; AUD 155,000 - 173,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Parental leave

Flexible work environment

Job summary

The Nature Conservancy in Australia is seeking a Data and Science Director to provide senior scientific, technical and strategic leadership for conservation initiatives. You will lead Data, Science and MEL, manage a multidisciplinary team, and ensure decisions are grounded in robust science and credible impact evidence.

This enterprise role supports conservation teams and leadership, overseeing data governance, research translation to policy, and funding initiatives across Australia.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant science or technical discipline.
• 4+ years manipulating, analyzing and interpreting statistical or environmental data.
• Record of peer reviewed publications.
• Experience fundraising or writing grants.
• Experience communicating with diverse stakeholders.
• Significant leadership of science, data or MEL functions in complex organisations.
• People management and capability development experience.
• Experience managing multi-stakeholder programs and deliverables.
• Strong track record applying science to conservation outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Oversee Data, Science and MEL functions for TNC Australia; align with strategic priorities.
• Manage governance of science and data infrastructure, including governance and reporting.
• Lead and develop a multidisciplinary team; workforce planning and recruitment.
• Advise leadership on scientific quality and policy translation; represent in external forums.
• Support funding proposals and internal funding mechanisms; manage risks and complex partnerships.
• Work in variable conditions, including remote locations and challenging environments.

Skills

Statistical data analysis

Environmental data interpretation

Wide range communication

Leadership experience

Science to policy translation

Education

Master’s degree in science/technical discipline

PhD in scientific discipline (or equivalent)

Tools

R

Python

Job description

The Nature Conservancy in Australia is seeking a Data and Science Director to provide senior scientific, technical and strategic leadership for conservation initiatives. You will lead Data, Science and MEL, manage a multidisciplinary team, and ensure decisions are grounded in robust science and credible impact evidence.

This enterprise role supports conservation teams and leadership, overseeing data governance, research translation to policy, and funding initiatives across Australia.