The core charge of the Deputy Executive Director of Science and Conservation, as the executive of record for all land and nature management activities at Duke Farms, will be to develop and lead the implementation of a visionary strategy that makes Duke Farms a national leader in the role of environmental restoration and conservation in promoting biodiversity and accelerating the global sustainability transition.

The Deputy Executive Director will lead a team focused on managing agricultural and natural lands for maximum biodiversity, particularly for threatened and endangered species; developing, implementing and evaluating natural climate solutions that restore biodiversity while storing carbon and promoting climate resilience; and developing and promoting science-based research and evaluation methods that address significant conservation challenges. The Deputy Executive Director will also be expected to imagine, plan and build partnerships that enable Duke Farms to participate in nationally and globally significant research and policy development.

Strategic Leadership and Vision: Lead Duke Farms in its transition from a regional amenity for nature experiences to a world-class center for applied conservation and sustainability.

• Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy for natural resources stewardship and agroecology that aligns with Duke Farms’ strategic priorities.

• Envision, develop and lead programs that establish a leadership position for Duke Farms in restoration and conservation, including through ambitious partnerships with esteemed organizations.

• Cultivate a powerful network of leaders and practitioners who can extend Duke Farms’ influence and reach.

• Represent Duke Farms as a thought leader in conservation, agroecology and climate resilience at regional, national and international forums.

Operational Oversight: Direct Duke Farms’ applied research and land management and environmental restoration priorities, ensuring that our work is grounded in the latest scientific understanding and best practices.

• Oversee implementation of stewardship and restoration activities at Duke Farms, ensuring the integration of biodiversity, climate resilience and regenerative agricultural practices.

• Build and manage the Natural Resources and Agroecology teams.

• Develop and manage the annual budget for the Natural Resources and Agroecology departments, ensuring efficient allocation of resources.

• Provide enterprise leadership by serving on the Duke Farms Executive Leadership team and the Doris Duke Foundation Management Group.

Resource Mobilization and Management: Develop and execute a comprehensive strategy to secure a diversified portfolio of resources to support Duke Farms’ conservation work to ensure long-term financial sustainability.

• Cultivate and maintain relationships with key partners.

• Collaborate with the Executive Director and other senior leaders to integrate resource mobilization strategies with overall organizational goals and priorities.

• Identify and secure funding opportunities, including grants, partnerships and sponsorships, to support strategic initiatives.

Qualifications: