Vice President of Ecology and Climate

Who We Are:

Founded in 1891 by a group of visionary volunteers, The Trustees of Reservations (The Trustees) is the nation’s premier conservation and preservation organization. The Trustees’ preserves, for public use and enjoyment, properties of exceptional scenic, historic, and ecological value in Massachusetts. Our properties are open to all, and we thrive by involving as many people as possible in all that we do.

We aim to protect special places for future generations to enjoy in perpetuity, and have helped protect more than 50,000 acres, including 27,000+ acres on more than 120 reservations that are open to the public. As a nonprofit conservation organization, we are supported by our visitors, supporters, volunteers, philanthropic partners, grant funders, and our 85,000 Member households. We encourage you to learn more about The Trustees on our website,(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

• Salary: $148,750-$191,250
• New Trustees hires are placed between the minimum and midpoint of the range, $148,750-$174,250.
• Hours per week: 40
• Job Classification:
  Exempt, Full-Time
• Job Type: Hybrid
• Location:
  
  Massachusetts

As the Vice President of Ecology and Climate, you will lead statewide strategies that shape how The Trustees manage, steward, and restore forests, grasslands, wetlands, coastal systems, and farmland. You will guide the organization in science‑based decision‑making and ensure our land management practices develop and reflect best practices in conservation and climate resilience.

This role leads the development and execution of organization‑wide ecology, agriculture and climate strategies and oversees major initiatives in habitat protection, climate adaptation, and sustainable land use to address the dual crises of biodiversity loss and climate change. You will be responsible for setting priorities, managing a high‑performing professional team, and collaborating with program, stewardship, and regional leaders.

• Develop and implement comprehensive strategies for the sustainable management of forests, grasslands, wetlands, and coastal areas that enhance The Trustees' mission and deliver successful results.
• Articulate and implement priorities, strategies, and targets in concert with other Trustees’ program areas of conservation and resilience, urban outdoors, arts and culture, property stewardship, and recreation and public engagement.
• Lead and mentor a team of ecology, agriculture, project management and habitat management professionals, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement toward achieving priorities.
• Utilize strong collaboration skills, working in a matrixed environment in partnership with other parts of the organization toward shared goals.

• Oversee the design and implementation of ecology, agriculture and climate resilience programs aligned with The Trustees’ Strategic Plan and synergy between programs.
• Oversee best‑in‑class stewardship practices that support 167 rare species and 20+ rare habitat types.
• Develop and oversee program budgets, ensuring efficient resource allocation and alignment with funding opportunities.

• Represent The Trustees with government partners, conservation coalitions, research institutions, and community organizations.
• Serve as a leading voice for science‑based conservation and climate policy in Massachusetts.
• Provide data‑driven insights and recommendations on emerging environmental trends.
• Provide guidance to education, engagement, marketing and stewardship teams that align Ecology and Climate team goals with visitor and public engagement.

This is a full‑time, exempt position reporting directly to the Chief Conservation Officer.

• Master’s degree in environmental science, natural resource management, ecology, conservation biology, or related field.
• 15+ years of experience in nature conservation, with a minimum of 5-7 years in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated expertise in land management practices, conservation strategies, climate adaptation, and environmental policies.
• Experience leading…