Director, Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) - (260002GB)
Department of Fish and Game, Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife)
MassWildlife manages more than 500 species and stewards critical habitats across in the third most densely populated state in the nation. MassWildlife protects and manages over 239,000 acres of land and water. The Director will lead the Division in advancing biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, public access to outdoor recreational opportunities, and responsible wildlife management in a complex and highly visible public environment.
Through its network of state-wide field operations, district offices, fish hatcheries, hunter education, and information and education programs, the Division ensures that science-based management, public engagement, and operational excellence guide the work of approximately 165 employees statewide.
Position Summary
The Director of the Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) serves as the chief executive for the Division. In this capacity, the Director advances the Commonwealth’s public trust responsibilities for wildlife, inland fisheries, natural resources, and species protected under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA).
The Director provides executive and strategic leadership, policy administration, and operational oversight to ensure the responsible conservation, management, and stewardship of the Commonwealth’s natural resources. The role requires advancing biodiversity protection, climate resilience, public access, sustainable land use, and fiscal stewardship in a complex and highly visible public environment. Through science-based decision-making, transparent governance, and collaborative partnerships, the Director administers all Division programs and activities in service to the public and in alignment with statutory authority under Chapters 21, 131, and 131A of the Massachusetts General Laws.
The Director engages regularly with the Commissioner, the Fisheries and Wildlife Board, Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) leadership, and stakeholders, responding to inquiries and ensuring that Division performance, reporting, and initiatives advance strategic priorities and accountability to the Commonwealth. The Director provides overall direction to the Deputy Director and senior leadership team responsible for core administrative and programmatic functions and engages with staff at various levels of the Division.
The Director also collaborates with federal and state agencies, EA programs including the Massachusetts Environmental Police, national and state conservation and sporting organizations, academic partners, and legislators to advance interagency initiatives, inform policy, integrate scientific research, and promote effective wildlife conservation and habitat stewardship across the Commonwealth.
Qualifications & Requirements
Key Responsibilities
Regulatory, policy, and program management - Direct all inland fisheries, wildlife, and MESA-listed species planning, regulatory and policy development, management and program implementation in the state.
Strategic Leadership & Biodiversity Conservation implementation of Executive Order No. 618 (Biodiversity Conservation in Massachusetts) by advancing the Commonwealth’s biodiversity and climate resilience goals, including 30x30 and 40x50 initiatives.
Sustainable Funding & Fiscal Stewardship
Develop and advance long-term funding strategies to support wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, and biodiversity initiatives.
Collaborate with the DFG Commissioner, Fisheries and Wildlife Board, state and federal partners, and stakeholders to advocate for sustainable funding mechanisms.
Oversee responsible fiscal management of Division resources, including license revenues, federal reimbursements, grants, and appropriations.
Public Engagement, Access & R3 Leadership
Strengthen and expand the Division’s Recruitment, Retention, and Reactivation (R3) initiatives to sustain and grow participation in fishing, hunting, and shooting sports.
Promote equitable access to wildlife-based recreation. Oversee integrated approaches to wildlife population management, including regulated hunting and trapping, public education, and coordination with Problem Animal Control agents.
Partnerships, Governance & External Affairs
Lead and inspire MassWildlife staff, cultivate collaboration and accountability, and maintain strong relationships with partners, governance bodies, and the public to advance the Division’s mission.
Provide regular engagement and transparent communication with the Fisheries and Wildlife Board and other governing bodies.
Serve as principal representative of the Division with state and federal agencies, municipalities, conservation organizations, Tribal Nations, stakeholders, and the public.
Represent the Division in legislative, public, and intergovernmental forums.
Organizational Leadership & Culture
Provide clear vision, direction, and executive oversight to Division staff, fostering a culture of integrity, inclusion, accountability, scientific excellence, and collaboration.
Establish organizational priorities aligned with strategic goals and available resources.
The successful candidate will bring:
Experience navigating complex public policy environments and engaging diverse stakeholders.
Proven ability to lead organizational strategy, build partnerships, and advocate effectively for conservation initiatives.
Demonstrated executive leadership experience in natural resources, wildlife biology, environmental policy, or a related field.
The Director must be a strategic thinker and visionary, effective communicator, and collaborative leader capable of advancing conservation, sustaining public trust, and ensuring the long-term stewardship of the Commonwealth’s natural resources.
Required Qualifications
10 years + experience leading and managing large, multi-disciplinary teams in natural resources, fisheries, or wildlife management, ensuring effective coordination of programs, field operations, and administrative functions.
Minimum of 7 years of experience in public administration, government, or nonprofit organizations, including responsibility for budget, personnel, program development, and legislative and public engagement.
Strong knowledge of fisheries and wildlife science, habitat conservation, and regulatory frameworks.
Ability to formulate a vision and strategy that will mitigate challenges and ensure the capacity of the Division to meet its mission.
Ability to create and maintain strong working relationships with key stakeholder groups, members of the Board, Department leadership, and the public.
Demonstrated ability to handle complex issues, reconciling competing priorities and dissenting perspectives.
Ability to analyze and interpret technical data on fish and wildlife resources, to understand scientific reports, and to lead preparation of written program evaluations.
Demonstrated experience motivating and supervising personnel, organizing and directing programs, and creating a positive, respectful and inclusive workplace culture.
Extensive experience communicating with and influencing diverse audiences, including legislators, the media, the public, and staff, particularly on complex, high-visibility, and sensitive issues.
Demonstrated leadership experience guided by the highest ethical standards, including respect, integrity, inclusion, honesty, fairness, and transparency.
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