Network Relations Coordinator

About the role

The Network Operations Coordinator is the operational hub of NatureServe’s relationship with its Network of Natural Heritage Programs and Conservation Data Centers. This is a coordinator-level role designed for someone who is organized, relationship-oriented, and energized by keeping complex systems and partnerships running smoothly.

This role works in close support of the Executive Director (ED), who carries strategic and executive-level accountability for Network Relations. The Coordinator handles the day-to-day communication, logistics, systems, and documentation that allow the ED and broader leadership team to maintain strong, productive relationships with Network partners across the U.S. and Canada.

This is not a strategy-setting role, it is a role for someone who executes with care, communicates proactively, and takes genuine pride in being the person others can count on to keep things moving.

What you'll do

The key responsibilities for the Network Operations Coordinator include, but are not limited to:

Network Operations & Documentation

• Serve as the primary coordinator and knowledge holder for NatureServe–Network communications, tracking Network news, updates, and open items across programs

• Act as the first point of contact for Network representatives, routing questions to the appropriate NatureServe staff and following up to ensure timely responses

• Support the development, tracking, and documentation of data sharing agreements, high-level data use permissions, and the NatureServe credit model in coordination with program managers and the ED

• Maintain and improve systems used to support Network relationship management, including Salesforce (CRM), a Network Permissions database, and SharePoint for document storage and collaboration

• Develop and maintain organizational documentation and process guides to ensure continuity and institutional knowledge

Meetings, Convenings & Training

• Coordinate and facilitate Network meetings, including client scoping calls, regional and section meetings, and other standing convenings

• Lead event and project management for Biodiversity Without Boundaries (BWB), including logistics, vendor and contractor coordination, budgeting, program structure, attendee communications, and sponsorship coordination — in partnership with the ED and relevant staff

• Design and implement scalable training initiatives in collaboration with NatureServe staff to support Network adoption of NatureServe tools, methodologies, and best practices

• Track and document outcomes from Network meetings and convenings; distribute follow-up communications and maintain records of decisions and commitments

Executive & Board Support

• Support the ED and other senior leaders in preparing for Board Membership Committee meetings, including scheduling, materials preparation, and follow-up coordination

• Assist the ED with Network-related outreach, correspondence, and relationship maintenance as needed

• Coordinate with BLD team to track and report on Network participation in BLD projects and other key functions to support credit model calculations and strategic planning

• Contribute to internal reporting on Network health metrics, engagement trends, and partnership status

Qualifications

Required Skills & Experience:

• 3–5 years of experience in a coordination, operations, or partnership support role, preferably in a nonprofit, scientific, or mission-driven environment

• Strong organizational skills with demonstrated ability to manage multiple workstreams, deadlines, and stakeholder relationships simultaneously

• Strong interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to build trust-based relationships and collaborate effectively across a distributed network of partners

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience drafting correspondence, meeting summaries, and documentation

• Experience with CRM systems (Salesforce preferred) and document management platforms (SharePoint or similar)

• Demonstrated ability to work proactively and independently while keeping the right people informed

• Comfort facilitating meetings and convenings with diverse stakeholders, including virtual and in-person formats

• Event coordination experience, including managing logistics, budgets, and vendor relationships

Preferred Skills, Certifications, Training, or Education:

• Familiarity with the NatureServe Network, Natural Heritage Programs, or the broader biodiversity conservation sector

• Experience supporting executive-level staff or working in a role that interfaces with board-level governance

• Background in environmental science, conservation, or a related field

• Experience with data licensing, partnership agreements, or program documentation in a scientific or conservation context

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.

Benefits

NatureServe offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including: Health care coverage; Flexible spending accounts (FSAs); 401(k) plan with a 6% employer match; Parental leave; Accrued sick and vacation time; Floating holidays; Life insurance and disability coverage; Employee assistance program (EAP); Additional benefits to support life and workplace well-being.