Chief Conservation Officer

About this position

Location: Ottawa, ON (Head Office), hybrid

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Duration: Indeterminate

Who We Are

The Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) is a national not-for-profit charitable organization dedicated to ensuring an appreciation of our natural world and a lasting legacy of healthy wildlife and habitat. By spreading knowledge of human impacts on the environment, developing and delivering educational programs, conducting research, promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, and advocating for effective wildlife policy and regulation, CWF strives for a future in which Canada’s wildlife is conserved for generations to come.

Diversity is a fundamental part of our core values; we create every opportunity to become more inclusive. We encourage applications from qualified candidates from all diverse communities, including but not limited to, Indigenous persons, racially visible persons, people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQ+, and women in non-traditional roles.

Position Overview

As a key member of the Executive Team and reporting directly to the CEO, the Chief Conservation Officer (CCO) will have a pivotal role in shaping the future of wildlife conservation across Canada. Leading the CWF’s Conservation Science and Education teams, the CCO will drive impactful, evidence-based strategies that not only protect wildlife and habitats, but also foster meaningful public engagement. The candidate will have the opportunity to lead a dynamic, multidisciplinary team of passionate professionals in educational and scientific conservation, and work collaboratively to integrate and elevate conservation efforts throughout the organization.

This position offers a unique chance to build and nurture relationships with a broad range of influential stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, corporations, Indigenous communities, and academic institutions. By fostering strong partnerships and securing funding, the CCO will play a critical role in advancing conservation policies, maximizing CWF’s impact, and ensuring long-term sustainability. The candidate will have the opportunity to innovate and execute forward-thinking conservation programs that will leave a lasting legacy of healthy wildlife and habitat for generations to come.

Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Program Development

• Develops and oversees the implementation of a multi-year conservation strategy.
• Prioritizes conservation initiatives based on impact, resources, and alignment with CWF’s objectives.
• Collaborates with fundraising and marketing teams to secure funding and diversify revenue streams.
• Evaluates key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure program effectiveness and improve impact.
• Aligns program priorities with evolving national and international trends to maintain CWF’s leadership position in wildlife and habitat conservation and education.

Operational Management

• Serves as one of CWF’s senior conservation leaders, providing expertise on conservation science issues, education, and evidence-based solutions.
• Leads the financial planning and management of science and education programs.
• Provides strategic oversight to CWF’s Conservation Science and Education team.
• Ensures compliance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements.
• Liaises with the Wildlife Conservation Policy Committee of the Board, addressing Board inquiries and supporting governance functions as needed.
• Advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion within conservation and education programs, ensuring broad representation and engagement in all initiatives.

External Relations & Advocacy

• Builds and maintains relationships with conservation partners, funders, industry leaders, academic institutions, and communities to expand reach and impact.
• Supports advocacy efforts to influence conservation policy and secure funding.
• When required, represents CWF at conferences, media events, and public forums.

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensures compliance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements.
• Stays informed of emerging trends to ensure strategies remain innovative and effective.
• Prepares and presents comprehensive reports to the Executive Team and Board of Directors on operational progress.

Staff Management & Development

• Leads a multidisciplinary team of educational, scientific, and technical conservation professionals.
• Inspires and motivates staff to foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusion.
• Supports recruitment, retention, and professional development of staff.

 
Education, Experience, and Abilities

• Master’s degree in Environmental Studies, Natural Resource Management, Ecology, or a related field.
• 10+ years of related experience in conservation, education, or nonprofit leadership.
• Ability to lead and inspire diverse teams, manage change, and resolve conflicts.
• Expertise in developing and adapting long-term strategies.
• Strong networking skills to build and maintain relationships with diverse audiences.
• Ability to influence conservation policy and represent the organization in public media.
• Experience in budgeting, resource allocation, and diversifying funding streams.
• Ability to promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in conservation efforts, with sensitivity to Indigenous knowledge, values, and traditions.
• Understanding of environmental laws, regulations, and conservation and education ethics.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English. Bilingual French would be considered an asset.

 
Work Conditions

• Full-time position, typically working Monday through Friday for 37.5 hours per week. Some overtime may be required.
• Location: Head Office based in Ottawa, ON. Hybrid flexibility to work from home twice per week.
• Salary will be determined based on experience, and can range from $129,317 to $161,646 per year.
• Ability to travel throughout Canada as required for site visits and meetings. Valid driver’s license required.
• Relatively constant sitting at a computer and use of peripherals.
• May experience mental stress due to conflicting demands from managing multiple programs, handling unpredictable or time-sensitive events, and emotionally charged situations regarding staff, external partners, or constituents.

Why Work With Us?

• Join a team of passionate individuals dedicated to wildlife and habitat conservation.
• Friendly and casual work environment.
• Office located in the quiet suburbs of Kanata which includes a kitchen lounge, living plant wall, and outdoor demonstration gardens.
• Expand your professional network within conservation and education sectors.
• We are committed to building a diverse workforce.
• We offer a competitive benefits plan at no cost to employees which include health, dental, vision, and LTD. Enrollment to Employee Assistance Program.
• We offer Group RSP enrollment with up to 5% matching.
• 13 paid stat holidays per year.
• Generous time-off policies include paid vacation days, sick days, float days, and appointment time.
• Complimentary subscription to Canadian Wildlife magazine.

 
Application Deadline: April 20, 2025
 

How to Apply:

 Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted. We thank all applicants for their interest in the Canadian Wildlife Federation!