The Project Associate manages a set of core functions, operations and projects of the Sustainable Development Strategy, focusing on the work supported by funders advancing regional greenprints and strategic mitigation initiatives. They provide high-level support requiring a wide range of skills, including the ability to manage projects independently, as well track the progress of projects being led by others. They will support internal and external meetings by scheduling, helping to draft agendas, facilitating meetings, developing presentations, coordinating and synthesizing project updates, and taking and distributing meeting notes. The Project Associate will manage specific projects, conduct research, synthesize and organize material. They will administer contracts, manage an internet-based file sharing system and initiatives calendar. They will develop and manage an internal and external communications plan and help develop marketing materials for external audiences, including website design and content as necessary. They will assist with fundraising by helping to write funding proposals and drafting reports to funders. They will have frequent interaction with external partners, donors and consultants. The Project Associate should take the initiative to solve problems as they arise, seeking input and equitable solutions with the support of her/his supervisor. This position is for a 2-year term and will report to the Director of the Sustainable Development Strategy.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The Sustainable Development Strategy Project Associate:

• Assists with contract management, including interacting with external parties to develop contracts, as needed, and managing contractors to ensure project success.
• Schedules, plans and prepares for team meetings and external meetings; helps facilitate and provide needed follow-up; and tracks deliverables and deadlines as appropriate.
• Coordinates and manages a set of core Strategy projects with support from supervisor and team members.
• In coordination with other departments, drafts and curates the Strategy’s conservation documents and products for policy, partner and fundraising needs.
• Tracks and coordinates Strategy deliverables related to annual planning, budgeting and projects.
• Facilitates external partner and internal team meetings and communications. Communicates with stakeholders, partners and public agency staff to advance the goals of the Strategy, as directed.
• Develops and implements Strategy internal and external communications plans, with support from team members, marketing and other internal and external support.
• Manages document file systems, as needed, using project management methodology.
• Conducts research on initiatives related to the Strategy’s goals and objectives.
• Coordinates the Strategy’s public and private fundraising activities including assisting in proposal development, writing, reporting, and tracking deadlines; serves as a key liaison to development staff.
• Assists with event planning and execution.

RESPONSIBILITIES & SCOPE

• Supports the implementation of a set of projects under the Sustainable Development Strategy.
• Supports Sustainable Development Strategy leadership and staff on Strategy operations, strategic direction, budgeting, fundraising and Strategy deliverables.
• Coordinates, and in some cases leads research and writing tasks for both internal and external audiences.
• Coordinates the work of cross-functional, cross-divisional teams towards a desired outcome.
• Works closely with operations and finance staff to complement support provided through those functions, including reporting associated with key grants.
• Plans, schedules, manages and helps facilitate team and partner meetings and events.