Land Protection Director - Land Conservancy of West Michigan

The Land Conservancy of West Michigan (LCWM), an accredited land trust dedicated to the permanent conservation of West Michigan's beautiful landscapes, is seeking a Land Protection Director.

We are located in Grand Rapids, a growing and vibrant mid-sized city, surrounded by the natural splendor of the Lake Michigan coast and interior woodlands. The mission of the LCWM is to help people protect, enjoy, and care for natural land in West Michigan. A non-profit organization, the LCWM is dedicated to the permanent conservation of natural areas in West Michigan in an eight-county region (Allegan, Kent, Ottawa, Newaygo, Muskegon, Oceana, Mason, and Lake). Since its inception over 45 years ago, the Land Conservancy has protected more than 12,000 acres through nature preserves, conservation easements, and partnering with local communities. We are dedicated to effective land stewardship, focusing on restoring ecological integrity, diversity, and health to the land. Learn more about our projects, preserves, and Strategic Conservation Plan at: www.naturenearby.org

The Opportunity

As Land Protection Director you have a central role in executing our proactive, climate-responsive Strategic Conservation Plan. Through a process combining science, advanced mapping, and extensive community input, we have identified three primary areas in our region that we are laser-focused on conserving: Lake Michigan Shoreline, Big Forests and Wild Rivers, and the Eastern Glacial Corridor.

From inception to completion, you will lead and manage the acquisition of fee properties and conservation easements, including assisting local government or other conservation groups in their efforts to acquire natural land. In partnership with the with Land Conservancy staff and committees, you will identify and prioritize lands and partners in alignment with strategic plans, and present recommendations to the Board of Directors.

Reporting to the Conservation Director, you are responsible for leading and engaging the Land Protection and Conservation Easement Specialists. You will also direct the work of administrative professionals, contractors and legal consultants.  

LCWM is growing and this is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful difference for future generations as we work to preserve natural space.