I am proud to serve on the board of the VCV and wanted to share news of a challenging job opportunity with our GMD readership who I know are so well-equipped to get the word out to everyone who should become involved.

On October 9, the Vermont Natural Resource Council and Vermont Conservation Voters announced an exciting new partnership, intended to empower both organizations with a palette of collaborative  possibilities through which to effect positive change for the environment and for sustainable communities.

As Executive Director, Brian Shupe has the full confidence of both entities to conduct a search for a shared Political Director. This is a new position, created to increase the capacity of  both organizations to fulfill their complimentary missions.

It’s a wonderful opportunity for a bright and dexterous candidate, with a strong commitment to our sustainable future, to truly make a difference.

Although the VNRC/VCV is already receiving many excellent applications from highly qualified individuals, they recognize that, in order to maximize the potential of this powerful new union, it is necessary to find just the right person who will compliment the culture of the VNRC’s excellent program staff with strong political skills and a sensitivity to the distinct missions of the partnered organizations.

This means that they are not just looking at those with by-the-book educational qualifications, but are expanding their invitation to those whose broad experience in activist leadership has gained for them a political acumen that compliments their commitment to shared principles of responsible communites, and land and resource stewardship.

If you have a mind to throw your hat in the ring, here is a list of what they are looking for:

•    excellent writing and presentation skills;

•    the ability to work collaboratively in a busy work-environment;

•    excellent verbal and written communications skills, including the ability to communicate complex policy positions in a concise, value-based manner that resonates with average Vermonters;

•    Excellent political and strategic skills, including an ability to read the political landscape and design effective strategies for navigating that landscape whether it involves a campaign to enact legislation or to elect a candidate to office;

•    effective fundraising skills, including an ability to nurture donor relationships and identify and solicit new donors;

•    a working knowledge of state and federal election laws; and

•    a passion for Vermont and protecting its environment and communities, and a belief that individuals working together can affect positive change.

A master’s degree in political science, environmental studies or related field is preferred, although direct experience running political campaigns, grassroots organizing, policy advocacy and/or lobbying are highly valued and can substitute for academic background.

It is my personal hope that a lot of excellent female candidates and people having diverse backgrounds will apply.

C’mon people, let’s live in full color!