Program Director, Center for Earth Ethics

Earth is a living planet. To restore balance and protect conditions for a thriving web of life, we must find ways to address the collective behavior of human beings. Because so much of what causes ecological destruction is perfectly legal and socially encouraged, there is a need to draw from deeper levels of conscience and wisdom to challenge the status quo and chart a way forward.

The Center for Earth Ethics (CEE) at Union Theological Seminary works to change the dominant value system from one based on short-term material gain to one based on the long-term health of the whole community of life. Founded in 2015 in the wake of the Religions for the Earth conference at Union Theological Seminary, CEE has maintained a commitment to exploring the moral and spiritual dimensions of the climate crisis, even as we have deepened our practical work in four areas of focus: sustainability and global affairs; environmental and climate justice; Indigenous wisdom, values and rights; and ecology, spirituality and faith. We use our unique convening capacity to tackle pressing issues, not only to speak truth to power but also to amplify the voices of those building a different kind of power, often along the margins.

Program Director

CEE is seeking a full-time Program Director to lead a small team working at the intersection of values, ethics, and ecology. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Program Director is responsible for all aspects of management of CEE and acts as a senior advisor to the Executive Director regarding CEE's long-term development and strategy. The position entails supervision and oversight of the core team that is responsible for program development, educational and training programming, events convening, policy analysis and movement-building work, public relations and outreach, signature research projects, and budget and grant management.

The ideal candidate has a deep interest in the intersection of planetary health, spirituality, education and advocacy, as well as a strong base of knowledge about the climate crisis. Partnering with the Executive Director, they will strengthen and build upon the existing base of support for Earth Ethics and forge a path of maturity and growth for CEE.

This is a hybrid position, and the successful candidate will need to be able to work out of CEE’s New York City office two to three days a week.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Executive Director, Staff, and Advisory Board on the development of a forward-thinking strategic plan for CEE that incorporates movement-building and advocacy.
• Prioritize, organize, and implement programming that advance’s CEE’s mission.
• Articulate and promote the field of Earth Ethics to internal and external stakeholders including faith leaders, policy makers, educators, scientists, business leaders, and donors.
• Provide direct oversight and support to CEE staff with a clarity of expectations and accountability, ensuring that all logistical processes are followed, program deliverables are met on time, and operational workflows are streamlined.
• Foster strong communication and coordination across the team, maintaining a positive work culture.
• Participate in the recruitment, hiring and onboarding of new staff as needed. Offer guidance and mentorship to drive efficiency and adherence to program timelines.
• Ensure transparency and accountability with key stakeholders, including the founder and executive director.
• Track relationships and identify opportunities generated by external talks or events that the executive director is invited to participate in.
• Establish and enhance CEE’s presence via collaboration with other constituencies within Union Theological Seminary and Columbia University, as well as other institutions.
• Build relationships and foster collaborations with key organizations and coalitions working in this space and marshal the energy of students and volunteers.
• Represent the executive director effectively at all levels of Union Theological and with external constituents and peer institutions
• Effectively manage and monitor the budget to ensure optimal resource allocation.
• Take on additional duties as required to support CEE’s evolving needs and priorities. This may include special projects, contributing to long-term strategic planning, and providing ad-hoc support to various CEE-led initiatives.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree strongly desirable
• 7 to 9 years of related experience
• Experience supervising administrative staff
• Experience managing projects in an academic, research or not-for-profit setting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree required with 7 years of related experience
• Project management experience
• Experience in policy analysis and/or movement-building work regarding climate and/or biodiversity

Core Skills

• Working/collaborating with executive leadership, including seeking their counsel when appropriate and representing them with integrity
• Maintain a culture of care, inclusivity and working for the Earth
• Initiative, discretion, ability to establish priorities, ability to work under pressure and good independent judgment
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Experience engaging in strategic planning and a broad range of research and related activities
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Compensation

$110,000-$120,000 per year, with a generous benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Applications

To be considered, please send a cover letter and resume to jobs@centerforearthethics.org. No phone calls please.

Union Theological Seminary is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other protected factor under federal, state, or local law.