Tennessee Wildlife Resources Commission Invites Applications for Executive Director

NASHVILLE - The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Commission announces the search for an Executive Director of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. The Agency has an experienced staff of over 700 employees and an annual budget in excess of $70 million dollars. The Executive Director has exclusive supervisory control of the Agency and is responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating the activities of the Wildlife Resources Agency.

The work of the Executive Director involves integrating the best available scientific practices and research, initiating and maintaining sound resource management practices, setting conservation priorities and recommending fish and wildlife regulations utilizing a scientific approach. The Executive Director is responsible to and serves at the pleasure of the Commission.

The Commission is a 13 member independent and separate administrative board directed and authorized to perform the duties and functions of, but not limited to: appointing and dismissing the executive director; approving a budget; promulgating necessary rules, regulations and proclamations related to wildlife resource management; and adjusting fees for licenses and permits.

The Commission is looking for someone with proven ability to work cooperatively with internal and external stakeholders and lead a fish and wildlife program facing significant natural resource and financial issues. The candidate selected will be responsible for providing vision and long term planning for the Agency’s mission.

Applicants must have experience demonstrating progressive management and leadership proficiency within a wildlife resource organization. Preference will be given to candidates with a bachelor of science degree in wildlife management or a related field and who are familiar with wildlife management practices and the administration of wildlife programs. The preferred candidate will possess experience in supervising a diverse organization and demonstrate strong leadership ability. The candidate will have an understanding of the value and traditions of hunting, fishing, trapping and wildlife viewing, and possess a strong ability to communicate and appreciate the balance required to maintain these traditions while protecting the resources and their habitats.

The successful candidate will have demonstrated the ability to balance and negotiate complex and sensitive issues involving the environment, endangered species, personnel management, equal employment opportunity and anti-discrimination programs. The successful candidate will also have a thorough knowledge of budgeting, excellent oral and written communications skills, excellent interpersonal skills, and public speaking experience.

The salary range for this position is up to $11,250 per month plus state benefits, retirement, medical, paid vacation, and auto.

Applications/resumes must be received no later than 4:30 p.m. (C.S.T.) on Thursday, January 8, 2009. Applications received after that date will not be considered. Note that applicants invited for an interview will be interviewed February 9-13, 2009. Interested individuals should send a cover letter, resume, letters of reference and any additional supporting documentation to:

TWRA is also an equal opportunity/equal access employer. Equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from programs of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is available to all persons without regard to their race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, or military service.