Senior Director, Applied Science

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This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Senior Director, Applied Science based in the United States.

This executive-level leadership role offers the opportunity to shape and advance science-driven strategies that generate meaningful environmental, social, and economic impact on a global scale. Leading a diverse team of technical experts and senior specialists, you will bridge scientific expertise with practical implementation, transforming complex research into scalable programs, products, and solutions. The role combines strategic vision, organizational leadership, stakeholder engagement, and innovation to strengthen impact across climate, agriculture, forestry, human rights, and sustainability initiatives. Working in a highly collaborative and international environment, you will influence decision-making at the highest levels while fostering scientific excellence, cross-functional alignment, and continuous learning. This position is ideal for a purpose-driven leader passionate about creating measurable change through science, partnerships, and sustainable development.

Accountabilities

  • Define and drive the global applied science strategy, ensuring alignment between technical expertise, organizational priorities, and long-term impact objectives.
  • Lead and develop a multidisciplinary international team of experts across environmental science, climate, agriculture, forestry, geospatial analysis, monitoring and evaluation, and related disciplines.
  • Translate complex scientific research, data, and technical findings into actionable programs, operational models, methodologies, and market-ready solutions.
  • Guide the development and implementation of scientific frameworks, impact measurement approaches, assurance mechanisms, and decision-making processes that support organizational effectiveness.
  • Champion producer- and community-centered approaches by integrating the needs of farmers, forest communities, and local stakeholders into program design and execution.
  • Promote evidence-based decision-making through the use of research findings, impact assessments, qualitative insights, and data analytics.
  • Foster innovation, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement across teams, functions, and geographic regions.
  • Build and strengthen strategic partnerships with companies, donors, industry leaders, policymakers, and external stakeholders to accelerate impact and influence.
  • Represent the organization at international conferences, industry forums, and strategic engagements, serving as a credible and influential scientific leader.
  • Contribute to senior leadership decision-making by providing strategic guidance, scientific expertise, and organizational direction.

Requirements

  • Master's degree in Climate Science, Environmental Science, Forestry, Agriculture, Biology, Social Sciences, Sustainability, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 15 years of progressive professional experience, including at least 10 years leading department-level strategies, budgets, and international teams.
  • Extensive senior leadership experience managing collaborations with corporate partners, donors, alliances, and other external stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated record of scientific achievement, thought leadership, and meaningful contributions within relevant fields.
  • Strong knowledge of scientific methodologies, research frameworks, impact evaluation approaches, and evidence-based decision-making processes.
  • Deep understanding of sustainability, environmental stewardship, climate resilience, ecosystem conservation, regenerative systems, human rights, and rural development.
  • Direct experience working with producers, farming communities, forest-dependent populations, or similar stakeholder groups.
  • Proven ability to translate complex technical concepts into practical solutions that drive measurable outcomes and stakeholder value.
  • Exceptional leadership, communication, public speaking, and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Strong capabilities in strategic thinking, innovation, change management, adaptability, problem-solving, and organizational leadership.
  • Ability to build trust-based relationships and foster collaboration across diverse cultures, disciplines, and geographic regions.
  • Demonstrated success managing multiple priorities and delivering results in dynamic, fast-paced environments.

Benefits

  • Competitive salary package with location-based compensation structures.
  • Flexible hybrid working environment with strong remote-work support.
  • Opportunity to contribute to a globally recognized mission focused on sustainability and positive impact.
  • Professional development and career growth opportunities within an international organization.
  • Generous paid time off and annual leave policies.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and wellbeing support resources.
  • Access to wellness initiatives and activities that promote work-life balance.
  • Sabbatical opportunities for eligible employees.
  • Collaborative, inclusive, and mission-driven workplace culture.
  • Exposure to global projects, international stakeholders, and meaningful environmental and social impact initiatives.

How Jobgether Works

We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team.

We appreciate your interest and wish you the best!

Why Apply Through Jobgether?

Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.