Position Announcement 

Program Manager, Tribal Buffalo Lifeways Collaborative

Reports to:  Vice President of Tribal Nations Engagement

Supervisory Role: No 

Status: Full-time; Exempt 

Travel: Yes; up to 35%

Salary: $75k to $95k annually

Position Type: Limited-term, subject to annual funding renewal

Location: Remote

Application Deadline: March 3, 2025

Application Link: https://screening.insperity.com/application/application.asp?client=5129500a&job_req=0225%2DTBLCProjMgr&hiring_manager_email=alopez%40nativephilanthropy%2Eorg

Kindly submit both your resume and cover letter in a single PDF file.

About Native Americans in Philanthropy  

Native Americans in Philanthropy envisions a future with healthy and sustainable Native communities supported by responsive philanthropy. Our mission is to promote equitable and effective philanthropy in Native communities. We do this by increasing engagement and funding to Native-led organizations; increasing and supporting Native professionals in philanthropy; and transforming and influencing the philanthropic sector to be in alignment with an Indigenous worldview.  

About the Tribal Buffalo Lifeways Collaborative (TBLC)

The TBLC is a historic public-private partnership dedicated to supporting Tribal-led buffalo restoration efforts. Founded by the InterTribal Buffalo Council (ITBC), Native Americans in Philanthropy (NAP), The Nature Conservancy (TNC), and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), TBLC is committed to advancing cultural, spiritual, ecological, and economic revitalization in Native communities through buffalo restoration.

About the Position

Native Americans in Philanthropy (NAP) has numerous projects in public-private partnerships that require the support of a Program Manager. This position will serve as a dedicated resource to advance the mission of TBLC. The Program Manager will lead, and oversee activities within the collaborative, working closely with Tribal leaders, organizational partners, and other stakeholders to ensure successful implementation of initiatives. The role requires a deep understanding of Tribal engagement, organizational leadership, critical project management skills, and the ability to foster collective accountability.

Primary Responsibilities

Project Coordination and Management:

1. Develop and manage project plans, timelines, and budgets for TBLC initiatives.
2. Oversee implementation of collaborative activities and ensure alignment with TBLC goals.
3. Provide consistent updates to partners, funders, and stakeholders on project progress.

Stakeholder Engagement:

1. Act as a liaison between TBLC partners, including ITBC, NAP, TNC, WWF, and Tribal leaders.
2. Facilitate collaboration across organizations to align priorities and ensure mutual accountability.
3. Organize, participate in, and facilitate meetings, gatherings, and events related to buffalo restoration.

Strategic Planning and Advocacy:

1. Support the stabilization, establishment, and expansion of Tribal buffalo programs.
2. Assist in resource mobilization efforts, including funding applications and partnership development.
3. Advocate and uphold the cultural, ecological, and spiritual values of buffalo restoration.

Reporting and Communication:

1. Prepare and deliver reports, presentations, and updates for stakeholders and funders.
2. Manage data and documentation related to the Collaborative’s activities and accomplishments.

Non-Essential Job Functions 

Other related duties as assigned. 

Knowledge, Skill & Ability 

1. Knowledge in federal government and Tribal governance, particularly relating to economic practices and resource management with a focus on sustainability.
2. Knowledge of project management software tools and CRM, such as Salesforce and Asana.
3. Strong leadership skills with a dedication to driving and achieving results.
4. Knowledge of investment processes and capital development.
5. Knowledge of private philanthropy and best practices for developing relationships in the field.
6. Familiarity with the principles of Indigenous self-determination and sustainability.
7. Excellent verbal, written communication, and interpersonal skills.
8. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
9. Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
10. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
11. Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Physical Requirements 

1. This position requires travel up to 35% of the time for meetings and conferences. 
2. Must be able to lead Zoom and other video conference calls and use computer equipment. 

Qualifications

1. Bachelor’s degree.
2. 3-5 years of professional experience particularly in tribal policy and law (particularly conservation and/or buffalo/agriculture), project management, and complex inter-organizational/inter-tribal relations.
3. Experience preparing funder proposals and conducting research.

Commitment to Equity

Native Americans in Philanthropy is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. It is our policy to provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals based on job-related qualifications and ability to perform a job, without regard to age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, creed, national origin, disability, genetic information, veteran status, citizenship, or marital status, and to maintain a non-discriminatory environment free from intimidation, harassment or bias based upon these grounds. 

Americans with Disability Act

Native Americans in Philanthropy complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact jziegler@nativephilanthropy.org.