Engagement Director

Job brief

The Engagement Director plays a crucial role in fostering connections and partnerships between the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department and various stakeholders, including government agencies, conservation organizations, community groups, and the general public. This position is instrumental in promoting awareness, understanding, and support for wildlife and fisheries conservation efforts across the state of Louisiana.

Responsibilities

1. Stakeholder Engagement:
   • Develop and implement strategies to engage and collaborate with governmental agencies, conservation organizations, non-profits, and other relevant stakeholders.
   • Cultivate and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders, including attending meetings, conferences, and events to represent the department's interests.
   • Facilitate dialogue and cooperation among diverse groups to address wildlife and fisheries conservation challenges and opportunities.
2. Public Outreach and Education:
   • Oversee the development and implementation of public outreach and education programs aimed at raising awareness about Louisiana's wildlife and fisheries resources.
   • Coordinate outreach events, workshops, and presentations to inform and engage the public on conservation issues, regulations, and initiatives.
   • Utilize various communication channels, including social media, newsletters, and press releases, to disseminate information and promote departmental initiatives.
3. Community Relations:
   • Serve as a liaison between the department and local communities, seeking input, addressing concerns, and fostering collaborative solutions to wildlife and fisheries management issues.
   • Organize community engagement initiatives, such as town hall meetings, public forums, and volunteer opportunities, to involve residents in conservation efforts.
   • Identify and leverage community resources and partnerships to support departmental objectives and enhance conservation outcomes.
4. Advocacy and Policy Support:
   • Advocate for wildlife and fisheries conservation priorities at the local, state, and federal levels, including participating in legislative advocacy efforts and policy discussions.
   • Provide input and support to policy development and implementation processes, working closely with departmental leadership and external stakeholders.
   • Monitor relevant legislative and regulatory developments and communicate implications to department staff and stakeholders.
5. Strategic Planning and Evaluation:
   • Contribute to the development of strategic plans, goals, and objectives related to stakeholder engagement, public outreach, and community relations.
   • Establish metrics and benchmarks to evaluate the effectiveness of engagement activities and initiatives, regularly assessing progress and making adjustments as needed.
   • Prepare reports, presentations, and other materials to communicate engagement outcomes and recommendations to departmental leadership and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in environmental science, wildlife biology, natural resource management, communications, or related field (Master's degree preferred).
• At least 5 years of experience in stakeholder engagement, community relations, or public outreach, with demonstrated success in building partnerships and mobilizing support for conservation initiatives.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to effectively convey complex conservation concepts to diverse audiences through written, verbal, and visual mediums.
• Experience in project management, strategic planning, and program evaluation, with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
• Knowledge of wildlife and fisheries management principles, regulations, and policies, particularly as they pertain to the state of Louisiana.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, social media platforms, and other relevant communication tools.
• Demonstrated passion for wildlife conservation, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.