Southeast U.S. Policy Director

Position Summary: The Southeastern U.S. Conservation & Policy Director provides strategic leadership and oversight for all BTT activities in the Southeastern United States, advancing regional conservation public policy, science, and education objectives. The Director serves as BTT's senior regional representative and spokesperson, responsible for program strategy, individual relationship development and formal partnerships, policy engagement, strategic communications, and operational coordination (including with BTT's Science Team). They will serve as a conduit connecting BTT and other capacity-building resources to needs across the Southeastern U.S., from Texas to Florida to Virginia, including the Gulf and South Atlantic coasts. This role aligns BTT's Southeastern U.S. programming with the organization's regional and organizational priorities, ensures science-based decision-making, deepens fishing guide, lodge, and flats sector relations, and represents BTT in high-level government, NGO, donor, and industry forums. The Director plays a leadership role in advancing conservation and flats fishery outcomes and, when necessary, will lead efforts to oppose unwise development and harmful policy through evidence-based advocacy and coalition building. The optimal hire will be an accomplished environmental, communications, or advocacy professional who is operationally and logistically adept. They will be a talented and strategic communicator, a network builder, and possess keen political instincts. The position will provide program and operational oversight, including resource mobilization, partner relations, and staff supervision and coordination. Reports ToVice President for Conservation & Public PolicyKey Responsibilities Regional Program Operations Manage BTT's Southeastern U.S. program in close alignment with BTT's Public Policy Leadership, ensuring effective planning, implementation, and evaluation of conservation, education, and policy initiatives. Develop and manage annual regional work plan, budget execution, and priorities as aligned with organizational strategy. Coordinate cross-departmental engagement including with Headquarters (Science, Policy, Communications, Development), board members, and other key organizational stakeholders. Oversee logistics, consultants, and in-region partners across Florida, the Gulf Coast, and South Atlantic states from Texas to Virginia. Represent regional program needs in organizational planning processes.

Policy & Partnerships: Lead high-level stakeholder engagement and partnership strategy across public agencies, NGOs, fishing guides, tourism, industry, and civil society. Act as BTT's primary representative and partnership-building agent in relevant federal- and state-level policy discussions, legislative consultations, agency rulemaking, and negotiations. Serve as the focal point for growing and maintaining highly effective relationships with a regional network of community leaders, guides, lodges, and brands in the recreational fishing industry to support long-term conservation outcomes and institutional capacity. Identify emerging policy risks and opportunities affecting fisheries and habitats, including appropriations cycles (e.g., Everglades restoration funding), regulatory proceedings, and proposed legislation. Lead strategic responses to proposed developments, regulatory actions, or policy changes at the state and federal level. Ensure science is effectively translated into policy-relevant messaging for legislators, agency staff, and the public. Communications & Education Oversee communications, outreach, and education strategies for the Southeastern U.S. program. Coordinate regional social media presence with the Digital Marketing Team. Support community outreach efforts by delivering presentations, newsletters, and digital content to increase understanding of BTT's conservation objectives. Contribute to grant-seeking processes and other fundraising efforts, and reporting.

Fundraising, Grants & Program Sustainability: Support grant development, donor engagement, and reporting. Cultivate relationships with local, state, regional, and national funders and partners in coordination with BTT Development and other Leadership. Contribute to long-term sustainability planning for BTT's Southeastern U.S. programming. Establish State of FL PAC to support BTT aligned political work Preferred Qualifications 5-10 years of relevant experience in conservation, public policy or law, nonprofit leadership, public relations, stakeholder management, business operations, or related fields. A background in environmental science or the conservation field is not required. Demonstrated experience leading programs or organizations, preferably at a national or regional level. Strong situational understanding of the Southeast United States’ environmental, fisheries, or coastal governance landscape with an aptitude for quickly absorbing technical details. Proven ability to engage senior government officials and diverse stakeholders. Experience managing partnerships, consultants, and complex initiatives. Strong communication, diplomacy, and strategic thinking skills.

Location: The ideal candidate will be located in the Southeastern U.S. but may be hybrid based on work experience, experience and educational credentials, and proven remote-work skills.

How to Apply: Please send a PDF Resume and Cover Letter to with "Southeastern U.S. Policy Director" in the subject line. Equal Opportunity EmployerBTTis an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected under U.S. federal, state, or local law.