Senior Director, Perpetual Planet Science & Impact

National Geographic; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 162,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

The National Geographic Society is seeking a Sr Director to lead the Perpetual Planet Expeditions (PPE) program within the Science & Innovation division. You will oversee grantmaking strategies, coordinate a team of experts, and build strong internal and external partnerships to advance conservation and science impact.

You will translate complex science for media audiences, guide strategy, and manage program budgets and timelines in a dynamic, matrixed environment.

Qualifications

• PhD required in a relevant scientific discipline or a similar credential reflecting extensive scientific background.
• 5+ years people management and 12+ years demonstrated experience with an environmental NGO.
• Strong writing and oral communication skills; ability to translate science for media audiences.
• Experience working in a matrixed organization with academic and corporate partners preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop PPE program impact framework and align with strategic goals.
• Lead landscape and gap analyses for continents and selections.
• Develop PPE RFPs and grantmaking strategy to scale funding.
• Oversee a team of subject matter experts and coordinate with PPE operations.
• Present PPE science internally and externally as needed.
• Manage science grantmaking budget with PPE operations and finance.

Skills

Program leadership

Grantmaking

Stakeholder management

Scientific communication

Project management

Budget oversight

Education

PhD in a relevant scientific discipline

Job description

The National Geographic Society is seeking a Sr Director to lead the Perpetual Planet Expeditions (PPE) program within the Science & Innovation division. You will oversee grantmaking strategies, coordinate a team of experts, and build strong internal and external partnerships to advance conservation and science impact.

You will translate complex science for media audiences, guide strategy, and manage program budgets and timelines in a dynamic, matrixed environment.