CONTACT

Russell Reynolds Associates has been exclusively retained by TNC to complete the search for the CIO. Those with interest in the position are encouraged to submit a resume to the following consultants: TNCCIO@russellreynolds.com .

WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER:

The Office of Investments (OOI) oversees and manages TNC’s globally diversified, multi-asset class portfolio, integrating risk-adjusted returns with mission alignment, while maintaining operational excellence and integrity. TNC is seeking a Chief Investment Officer to join and lead the TNC Office of Investments and a high performing team of professionals.
The Nature Conservancy has total assets of $9B of which the Office of Investments is responsible for managing approximately $4B, comprised of endowment and other long-term investments. These funds support TNC’s global operations and most pressing conservation projects. The Office of Investments’ mission is to support the funding of TNC’s global conservation priorities by increasing the organization’s purchasing power through prudent and sustainable investment management. TNC’s endowment and long-term investment assets play a pivotal role by providing a stable financial foundation to fund global conservation priorities. With approximately 15% of its operating budget funded from endowment income, TNC is deeply committed to prudent and strategic asset management that is vital to the organization’s long-term success.

WHO WE ARE :

The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our Mission and guided by our Values, which includes a Commitment to Diversity and Respect for People, Communities, and Cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s lots of reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube or on Glassdoor .
Our goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging, and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our Mission by hiring and engaging a diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we work. In addition to the requirements in our postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job. Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is a key to innovation and a culture of inclusion! Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote myriad TNC staff members, “you’ll join for our mission, and you’ll stay for our people.”

THE ROLE

Based in Arlington, VA and reporting into the Chief Operating Officer, Neel Broker, the Chief Investment Officer (CIO) will lead the strategic management of TNC’s multi-billion-dollar endowment and long-term investment assets. The CIO is responsible for the formulation, recommendation, and implementation of an overarching investment policy, asset allocation strategy, and risk framework, ensuring alignment with TNC’s mission, long-term financial objectives and operating budget funding and needs. The CIO will lead, mentor, and further develop a high-performing, 15-member team, providing opportunities for growth and expanded responsibilities for all current and future team members. They will cultivate relationships with external managers, and ensure disciplined, evidence-based decision-making that advances TNC’s conservation mission and performance of the portfolio. This professional will partner closely with a strong and empowering 11-person Investment Committee , collaborative Executive Leadership Team , and Global Board of Directors , as well as other senior leaders and functions across the organization. This professional will be energized by the global reach and impact of TNC’s mission and efforts and be able to operate well across the organization, to further connect and collaborate on TNC initiatives and opportunities, especially as the organization works towards accomplishing 2030 goals and beyond.

ADDITIONAL KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

• Lead the management and strategic growth of TNC’s investment portfolio, ensuring superior risk-adjusted returns to support conservation priorities and long-term growth of the endowment.
• Formulate and recommend investment policy, asset allocation strategy, and spending guidelines to the Investment Committee; oversee their implementation and ongoing management.
• Conduct rigorous due diligence, selection, and oversight of external investment managers across asset classes, including public equities, fixed income, hedge funds, private equity, and real assets.
• Oversee risk management, performance measurement, compliance, and investment operations in partnership with the COO of the OOI.
• Maintain robust internal controls and conduct regular risk assessments; proactively mitigate emerging risks and leverage new opportunities, including technology and AI-driven investment tools.
• Collaborate closely with the CFO and Finance team to develop short-term and long-term spending plans and operating budget needs for the endowment.
• Engage regularly with the Investment Committee, providing timely, transparent reporting and strategic insights into investment performance and market dynamics.
• Serve as a senior ambassador of TNC’s investment strategy and mission, fostering relationships with investment partners, donors, financial intermediaries, and other stakeholders.
• Partner with TNC’s Development team to align investment strategy with fundraising efforts and donor engagement, encouraging mission-aligned capital raising.
• Foster a culture of intellectual honesty, collaboration, continuous improvement, and mission alignment within the investment team.
• Direct the maintenance of TNC’s financial records related to investment activities, ensuring accuracy and compliance with applicable standards.
• Conduct ad-hoc analyses as requested by the COO, Investment Committee, or other stakeholders.
• Stay informed on global investment trends, regulatory developments, and innovations to enhance the portfolio’s resilience and impact.