Job Description
POSITION TITLE: Manager, Conservation Cleanups DEPARTMENT/PROGRAM: Ending Ocean Plastics Program REPORTS TO: Associate Director, Conservation Cleanups STATUS: Regular, Full Time, Exempt LOCATION: Hybrid - Washington, D.C. About Ocean Conservancy For more than 50 years, Ocean Conservancy has delivered effective, evidence-based solutions for the ocean and all who depend on it. Today, we continue to unite science, people and policy to protect our ocean from the greatest challenges it faces: climate change, plastic pollution and biodiversity loss. We are a 501(C)3 headquartered in Washington, D.C. that inspires a worldwide network of partners, advocates and supporters through our comprehensive and clear-eyed approach to ocean conservation. Together, we are securing a healthy ocean and a thriving planet, forever and for everyone. Position Summary The Conservation Cleanups Manager is responsible for the planning, management and implementation of key programmatic events including signature beach cleanups and global partner conferences. The Manager will work alongside members of the Ending Ocean Plastics Program (EOP) team to organize and deliver world-class volunteer events for Ocean Conservancy’s corporate supporters while simultaneously striving to engage communities and supporters around the world to grow the global recognition of the Ocean Conservancy brand. This position will be responsible for coordinating across time zones with employees in offices throughout the U.S., as well as a multitude of international cleanup partners. Primary Responsibilities Plan and execute all International Coastal Cleanup ® (ICC) events, both domestic and international, including large meetings, conferences and signature beach cleanups. Manage event logistics from concept through execution and follow-up, ensuring seamless coordination across staff, vendors, volunteers, sponsors and local partners. Develop and maintain detailed project timelines, operational plans and run-of-show documents to ensure every event component is delivered on schedule and to the highest standard. Serve as the on-the-ground representative of Ocean Conservancy, engaging confidently with a wide range of stakeholders including volunteers, corporate supporters, sponsors and community leaders. Lead and facilitate all operational details of Ocean Conservancy signature cleanup events, ensuring logistics, equipment, volunteers and partner needs are met and managed with professionalism and efficiency. Own the stewardship and engagement of the ICC sponsor network, including communications with current and prospective supporters via email, phone, mail and video calls. Maintain strong collaboration across the ICC team and other Ocean Conservancy programs to ensure coordinated planning and successful execution of external events. Track and maintain event data and records, including volunteer participation, debris removal metrics and supporter engagement activities. Prepare customized post-event reports, summarizing quantitative outcomes and qualitative impact. Maintain timely and professional internal and external communications while traveling domestically and internationally. Identify opportunities to expand supporter engagement and enhance the impact of ICC events. Represent Ocean Conservancy with professionalism and exceptional service, maintaining respectful and responsive communication with partners, supporters and volunteers. Required Experience/ Skills/Competencies Experience & Skills 3–4 years of experience in event management, customer service, project coordination or related roles required. Demonstrated ability to operate effectively in dynamic environments, shifting seamlessly between different audiences, settings and responsibilities throughout the day. Familiarity working with volunteers of all ages required. Previous experience living, working or traveling outside of the United States preferred. Outstanding interpersonal skills and ability to build positive relationships with partners, volunteers and stakeholders. Excellent written and oral communication skills with diverse audiences of all ages, backgrounds and language abilities. Bilingual capabilities preferred. Highly self-directed with the ability to take initiative and work independently while traveling or managing remote event logistics. Detail-oriented and highly dependable, responsible and organized. Demonstrated ability to quickly solve problems, meet goals and successfully execute tasks under high-stress situations. Solutions-oriented