Program Manager - Natural Resources

Program Manager- Natural Resources

Job Overview

The Program Manager is responsible for business development for existing and prospective clients, cradle-to-grave program and project oversight, and leading complex projects and programs with no oversight. They are expected to act independently to build and develop programs and associated work products to completion. The Program Manager leads teams, drives business development, and builds new service lines by dedicating time to marketing, recruiting, and fostering partnerships. They take on complex projects requiring advanced technical skills, address challenging situations, and spearhead new initiatives to grow Sequoia’s practices and operational efficiency. The Program Manager is responsible for supervising up to 5 direct reports and a team of up to 20 individuals who support their assigned programs. This position reports to the Principals or Director.

Responsibilities and Duties

Program Leadership and Development

Foster a safe, collaborative, and inclusive team environment, promoting knowledge sharing and continuous learning

Lead technical and grant writing efforts for Sequoia and/or its clients

Build a team dedicated to work on the line(s) of business they oversee

The team should also support projects outside that business lines as needed

Supervise, mentor, and coach all levels of staff

Provide program support to HR team in hiring, onboarding, and offboarding employees assigned to their program(s)

Support and guide staff in achieving their professional development goals

Program and Project Oversight

Ensure highest quality and accuracy in planning, implementing, and completing all assigned program projects

Develop comprehensive project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation, ensuring alignment with Sequoia’s strategic objectives

Conduct regular project reviews and pursue operational adjustments to ensure compliance with applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations

Identify potential risks associated with projects and develop mitigation strategies

Oversee and perform quality review of all work products

Collaborate with Sequioa or partnering experts to integrate the latest research and best practices in project execution

Develop and lead monthly meetings and/or trainings in the regulatory practices sector

Frequently handle projects requiring remediation, whether due to high-touch clients, staffing challenges, or complex field situations

Relationship Management

Maintain and cultivate new relationships within the environmental consulting industry

Act as primary liaison with clients, stakeholders, and community groups, meeting and managing all needs and expectations

Senior Leadership Contributions

Participate in senior leadership initiatives

Identify growth and engagement opportunities for staff

Explore new service lines and opportunities

Provide strategic input and advice on Sequoia’s overall direction and growth

Work with the other Program Managers and senior leadership to collaboratively define the direction of the company, set policies and procedures, plan and lead meetings, and provide other leadership support

Business Development

Act as an external lead for Sequoia representing the firm at virtual or in-person conferences and other events

Develop and lead Responses to Proposals/Quotes, engaging in project and business development

Work closely with marketing team to lead or co-lead business development efforts, attend key meetings, and represent Sequoia at relevant conferences

Actively participate in key trade organizations, professional societies, and potentially board memberships in the marketplace

Identify and pursue new market opportunities

Attend Go/No Go meetings with senior leadership team

Qualifications

Progressive success working as a Project Manager, Senior Project Manager, or Program Manager for at least 10 years

Demonstrated success working as a senior-level Project Manager for at least 4 years

Demonstrated success supervising teams for at least 5 years

Proven capability of mentoring new supervisors

Thorough understanding of FESA, CESA, CWA Sections 401 and 404, CFGC Section 1600, CEQA, NEPA, and other federal and state regulatory requirements

Routinely viewed by peers, principals, and other employees as a technical expert

Routinely relied upon by other employees as a leader and mentor

Demonstrated ability to motivate and inspire teams and individuals; effectively negotiate, communicate, listen, and influence; and build and improve team performance

Demonstrated, clear understanding of Sequoia’s mission, vision, and values

Ability to manage complex projects independently without supervision

Bachelor’s degree in biology, ecology, environmental science, planning, or related field

Sophisticated understanding of California flora/fauna and/or regulatory environment

Demonstrated verbal and written communication and editing skills

Proficiency in MS Office Suite

Familiarity with GIS mapping tools and ability to navigate existing tools

Valid driver’s license

Other Requirements

An insured vehicle that does not leak fluids

Ability to perform fieldwork and/or travel up to 5% of time

Overnight stays up to 5% of the time, depending on projects assigned