Chief Conservation & Land Protection Officer

Malaysianwildlife; Doylestown (Bucks County); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Heritage Conservancy seeks a dynamic Vice President of Conservation to lead land protection, easement stewardship, and fee-owned property programs across Bucks County and surrounding regions. Reporting to the President & CEO, this role oversees a 10+ person Conservation team and a portfolio of 270+ easements and 50+ owned properties.

The VP will set priorities, guide acquisitions, and cultivate relationships with municipalities, counties, and state agencies to expand public funding for

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree a plus.
• 12+ years of experience in conservation, land use planning, real estate, and/or fee title and conservation easement transactions.
• 8+ years of management experience.
• Negotiation / dealmaking skills.
• Experience with and management of various types of easements including conservation and agricultural preservation easements a plus.
• Familiarity with Pennsylvania local and county government a plus.
• Ability to handle multiple and diverse responsibilities.
• Excellent oral and written communications skills; strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to see the big picture while attending to detail.
• Strong problem solving, time management, and organizational skills.
• Ability to cultivate and manage relationships with landowners, partners, officials, and staff.
• Commitment to Heritage Conservancy’s mission and high standards of conduct.
• Some weekend and evening hours are required.
• Access to an insured vehicle and ability to travel for work in the surrounding area.
• Successful candidate will be required to pass Pennsylvania child abuse clearances.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Conservancy’s overall Conservation function with strategic direction and alignment across land protection and stewardship.
• Oversee acquisition projects and the conservation portfolio, ensuring alignment with priorities and funding.
• Build relationships with municipalities, counties, and state agencies to expand funding for conservation.
• Lead the Conservation department staff and supervise senior program leaders.
• Budget, track, and report expenditures for land conservation projects and programs.
• Collaborate with Development and Grants teams to craft compelling proposals for donors and funders.
• Represent the organization on conservation policy and regional partnerships.

Skills

Negotiation / dealmaking

Communication skills

Time management

Organizational skills

Stakeholder relationships

Travel availability

Local government knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree

Job description

Heritage Conservancy seeks a dynamic Vice President of Conservation to lead land protection, easement stewardship, and fee-owned property programs across Bucks County and surrounding regions. Reporting to the President & CEO, this role oversees a 10+ person Conservation team and a portfolio of 270+ easements and 50+ owned properties.

The VP will set priorities, guide acquisitions, and cultivate relationships with municipalities, counties, and state agencies to expand public funding for