Gopher Tortoise Program Lead

Perform functions to manage all aspects of the gopher tortoise recipient site program. Holds operational ownership and accountability for the program. This position manages personnel, drives business development, formulates revenue strategies, and executes regulatory compliance. 

• Serve as main point of contact for issuing contracts and reservation letters to all new and existing gopher tortoise clients.
• Develop and maintain relationships with both new and existing clients. Find and follow up on leads for potential customers. Formulate and implement business development strategies to generate revenue and manage costs.
• Oversee the financial health of the gopher tortoise program by establishing annual sales targets, generating market forecasts, and determining optimal pricing structures.
• Manage gopher tortoise pick up, deliveries, and release of tortoises.  Manage soft enclosure compliance, construction, and maintenance.
• Manage data from all gopher tortoise deliveries and forecast sales targets. Invoice clients for tortoises received and manage accounts receivable.
• Plan, direct, and oversee gopher tortoise habitat management including prescribed burn planning and mechanical land management treatments.
• Manage, direct, and supervise the daily operational assignments of the technical field staff.
• Serve as the organization’s primary Subject Matter Expert for the FWC’s Gopher Tortoise Relocation Program.

education/experience: Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, Business Administration, or a related field required. Preferred 3–5 years of progressive program management, environmental consulting, or business operations experience. 

• Have or obtain Gopher Tortoise Agent License within 6 months of hire.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to build lasting business relationships.
• Excellent listening skills to ensure both internal and external customers’ needs are fully understood.
• Time management skills to prioritize and follow up with customers effectively.
• Represent Lykes with professionalism and courtesy.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Access and Excel, and other specialty software.
• Excellent written, verbal, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of GIS mapping systems preferred.