Skills
Project Management & Coordination
Program development and implementation
Goal setting, task prioritization, and performance monitoring
Budget management and resource allocation
Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL)
Designing and implementing MEL plans
Data collection, analysis, and reporting
Adaptive management and impact assessment
Data Management & Analysis
Database management (Smartsheet, Excel)
Data quality assurance and trend analysis
Reporting and visualizing data insights
Communication & Reporting
Preparing technical and progress reports
Presenting findings to diverse audiences
Writing grant proposals and progress updates
Leadership & Collaboration
Leading cross-functional teams
Stakeholder relationship management
Mentoring and staff training
Conservation & Environmental Science Knowledge
Ecological data collection and analysis
Knowledge of biodiversity and climate resilience strategies
Software Proficiency
Smartsheet, Asana, Excel, ArcGIS (or similar GIS tools)
About
I am writing to express my interest in the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning Specialist (MELS) position at The Nature Conservancy. With a robust background in environmental project management, conservation planning, and data management, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to TNC’s mission of advancing biodiversity and climate resilience in the Western U.S. and Canada Division.
In my previous role as Director of Programs at The Nature Connection, I successfully led the development and implementation of multiple environmental projects, collaborating with diverse teams to monitor progress and ensure effective adaptive management. I have experience developing and maintaining monitoring databases, including Smartsheet, and providing clear and concise reports on project progress. My ability to oversee data management, track key performance indicators, and analyze trends has consistently supported informed decision-making and project refinement.
My background in program coordination and management, especially in the conservation field, has provided me with the experience needed to navigate complex, matrixed environments. I have honed my ability to work independently, while also fostering collaboration among cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and external partners. In my prior roles, I have led strategic reviews, supported the development of monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and provided technical assistance to ensure alignment with organizational goals.
In addition to my technical skills, I have developed a strong capacity for communicating complex data and concepts to a wide range of audiences, ensuring that the implications of monitoring activities are understood by all stakeholders. Whether delivering presentations or writing detailed reports, I prioritize clarity and actionable insights that can drive adaptive management practices.
I am particularly drawn to this role at TNC because of the organization’s commitment to collaborative problem-solving and the chance to work alongside a global network of conservation professionals. The opportunity to support TNC’s 2030 Goals for biodiversity and climate through effective MEL strategies aligns with both my professional goals and personal values.
Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to bring my skills in project management, evaluation, and data analysis to the MELS position and contribute to the ongoing success of TNC’s conservation efforts. I look forward to the possibility of discussing how my experience and expertise can support TNC’s mission in the Western U.S. and Canada Division.
Sincerely,
Tori Thibodeaux
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