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The Seabird Conservation Program of the USA NGO, the American Bird Conservancy (ABC) advances the organization's mission by  developing solutions to threats facing the oceanic birds of the Americas; informing and educating policy-makers and resource managers about seabird conservation needs and solutions; and influencing government agencies and multilateral institutions regarding policy, resource allocation, and international conventions that affect seabirds.

The Seabird Program Director assists the Vice President for Oceans and Islands in implementing ABC's Seabird Program goals. S/he is responsible for implementing an ambitious strategic plan for seabird conservation in the Americas; developing and implementing on-the-ground conservation projects to counter threats faced by the hemisphere's imperilled seabirds; developing capacity in partner organizations abroad; and reaching out to US and foreign governments and helping to ensure adequate funding for the programme.

Primary duties include:

Develop and implement an ambitious seabird conservation programme to protect seabirds and address their most pressing threats. The programme will protect the most imperilled seabirds in the Americas as well as counter broad-scale threats to seabirds. Key programme areas include protecting critical nesting sites for rare/endangered seabirds and the most productive nesting sites for seabirds that are more common, reducing or eliminating the threats to seabirds from fisheries bycatch and food-web disruption, and reducing threats from invasive mammals and plants.
Advocate for sound policies at the national and international levels to protect seabirds and their habitats and to reduce threats.
Increase awareness of seabirds in key local communities and with major decision-makers.

Build collaborative partnerships, both nationally and internationally, to carry out this programme.
Identify science needs and work with others to secure answers.
Be a public spokesperson for seabirds and their conservation.

Waved Albatross: a strictly Pacific species
Photograph by Ron Levalley

Position requirements include an MS or PhD in policy, natural resources, law, business or related field. Excellent background and understanding of conservation practices and bird conservation needs, seabirds specifically, and environmental policy issues.
At least three years of experience in policy advocacy and conservation, and at least one year of international experience.
Demonstrated ability to translate strategic, visionary ideas into functioning, sustainable programs and initiatives.
Ability to develop creative, energetic conservation and advocacy campaigns that produce lasting results. Ability to deliver conservation results that benefit seabirds.
Experience in working with international partners, networks, and governments. Demonstrated success in working with a work wide variety of people and partner institutions, and in cross-cultural situations.
Ability to build, lead and manage multiple campaigns or projects concurrently, and meet deadlines. Ability to both take direction and build consensus.
Excellent oral and written communications skills.
Spoken and written proficiency in English and Spanish are required. Spoken and written proficiency in Portuguese desired.
Able to travel, often on short notice.
Highly committed to conservation and to ABC's conservation mission.

The position will be based in The Plains, Virginia, USA.

To apply e-mail a cover letter and resumé to Merrie Morrison, Vice President of Operations at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  The application deadline is 16 April 2012.

John Cooper, ACAP Information Officer, 26 March 2012