Water Group Director

About the Role

The day-to-day responsibilities of the Water Group Director will involve close coordination with confederation leaders, funders, and prospective partners to identify opportunities for collective action and to advance shared policy and conservation goals. This will require a deep understanding of the complex landscape of water policy and the ability to navigate the interests of diverse stakeholders. The role also involves working closely with the Senior Vice President for Conservation and other key internal stakeholders to ensure that the activities of the Water Group are aligned with the overall strategic objectives of American Rivers.

American Rivers is committed to making every river in the United States clean and healthy for both people and wildlife. As a national conservation organization, it has been at the forefront of efforts to safeguard the nation's water resources for over 50 years. The organization's approach to conservation is built on a foundation of evidence-based solutions, enduring partnerships, and a deep respect for the interconnectedness of all things. The Water Group Director will be a key part of this effort, leading a team that is passionate about protecting America's rivers and ensuring that they continue to thrive for generations to come.

What You Will Do

• Lead the Water Group confederation and its sectors, aligning strategy, strengthening collaboration, and fostering effective partnerships among members and stakeholders.
• Facilitate confederation governance and operations, including convening leadership meetings, preparing agendas and briefing materials, documenting decisions, and translating strategic priorities into actionable workplans, budgets, timelines, and implementation frameworks.
• Monitor and analyze policy developments, campaigns, and emerging opportunities affecting water conservation and management.
• Conduct research and develop strategic recommendations to advance confederation priorities.
• Develop and maintain mapping, intelligence, and analytical products that identify coalition assets, strategic opportunities, partnership prospects, and pathways for collective impact.
• Create high-quality communications and engagement materials, including executive briefings, presentations, talking points, reports, and rapid-response resources.
• Support fundraising and donor engagement efforts by developing case-for-support materials, cultivating philanthropic relationships, and helping build strategic funding opportunities for shared priorities.
• Establish performance metrics, track progress, synthesize lessons learned, and ensure effective coordination among confederation members.
• Advance inclusive practices throughout confederation activities and decision-making processes.

What We Are Looking For

• Minimum of eight years of experience in coalition or confederation management, policy advocacy, campaign strategy, partnership development, or multi-stakeholder leadership.
• Demonstrated success in convening and influencing senior leaders, executives, funders, and diverse stakeholders to advance shared priorities and achieve measurable outcomes.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communications and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Excel and other data analysis tools.
• Experience with fundraising and donor engagement, including developing case-for-support materials and cultivating philanthropic relationships.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop strategic recommendations.
• Commitment to the mission and values of American Rivers, with a passion for protecting and restoring the nation's rivers.

Nice to Have

• Experience working in a remote or distributed team environment, with a strong ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Familiarity with water policy and conservation issues, including knowledge of federal and state water laws and regulations.
• Experience with coalition building and management, including the ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships.
• Strong public speaking and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate complex information to diverse audiences.
• Certification in project management or a related field.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous PTO policy, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth within the organization.
• Flexible and remote work arrangements, with the ability to work from home or from one of our office locations.
• Access to a dynamic and supportive team environment, with a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• The opportunity to work on a wide range of water conservation and policy issues, with a highly respected national organization.

• Develop a strong understanding of water policy and conservation issues, including federal and state water laws and regulations, to stand out as a candidate.
• Highlight your experience with coalition building and management, including your ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships and communicate effectively with diverse audiences.
• Make sure your resume and cover letter are tailored to the specific requirements of the Water Group Director role, with a focus on your project management, communications, and partnership-building skills.
• Be prepared to provide specific examples of your experience with fundraising and donor engagement, including your ability to develop case-for-support materials and cultivate philanthropic relationships.
• Consider obtaining certification in project management or a related field to demonstrate your commitment to professional development and to enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Research American Rivers and its mission, values, and current initiatives to demonstrate your passion for water conservation and your commitment to the organization's goals.