Senior Director, Global Toxics

Overview

NRDC (the Natural Resources Defense Council) works to safeguard the Earth, its people, its plants and animals, and the natural systems on which all life depends. NRDC combines the power of more than 3 million members and online activists with the expertise of some 800 policy advocates, lawyers, scientists, and communication experts to confront the climate crisis, protect nature, ensure the rights of all people to clean air, clean water, and healthy communities.

Since our founding in 1970, NRDC has helped craft and deliver many of America's foundational environmental laws. Today, we continue to lead in advancing and defending strong environmental protections at the local, state, federal and international levels.

Position Summary

In alignment with NRDC's strategic focus on healthy and thriving communities, the International Program's Global Toxics Division works to reduce the use and exposure to toxic chemicals around the world. As a global leader on the issue of artisanal and small-scale mining (ASGM) and mercury, NRDC is coordinating the planetGOLD program.

This position will work with NRDC's international team in our Washington, DC office. The main focus is to set strategy for and lead the execution of activities of the planetGOLD global project, manage the budget, and oversee financial and administrative compliance. The position will also work on responsible critical minerals production and global plastics pollution reduction.

This is a limited term 3-year position.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for the planetGOLD global project.
• Oversee knowledge management, assessment, and communications activities.
• Support the community of practice within the planetGOLD programme.
• Manage project personnel, subcontractors, and consultants.
• Oversee financial management of the approximately $6 million project budget.
• Develop strategies on responsible critical minerals production in artisanal and small-scale mining.
• Advocate for reducing plastics pollution globally in concert with other departments.

Qualifications

Minimum Education & Experience

• Advanced degree (Masters or above) in a relevant discipline (e.g., public health, environmental health policy).
• At least 10 years of experience working on Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) issues.
• At least 10 years of experience working on international chemicals management policy and advocacy.

Skills, Abilities, Competencies

• Career-level professional knowledge relevant to Artisanal and Small-scale Mining (ASM).
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proven people-management skills, including coaching and developing staff.
• Extensive experience and network of contacts within the global ASM community.
• Familiarity with the Minamata Convention on Mercury.
• Experience coordinating multi-stakeholder initiatives and projects.
• Strong project management and financial stewardship skills.
• Professional fluency in French or Spanish is preferred.
• Commitment to NRDC's mission, values, and DEI principles.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary range: $185,000 to $200,000.
• NRDC offers competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and a supportive working environment.
• NRDC operates under a hybrid work model (8 days per month in-office).

How to Apply

To apply, visit nrdc.org/careers and upload your résumé and cover letter. Please mention where you saw this posting.