National Parks Conservation Association Reviews

Executive leadership is mediocre. Most VPs have been at NPCA for 10-15 years, and would be hard-pressed to find top-level jobs at other organizations, so they aren't going anywhere anytime soon. Which means the up-and-coming staff rise to a certain point, then leave. New CEO comes from corporate environment and has struggled to put his imprint on the organization, as he doesn't seem sure how to contribute. When VPs disagree with one another, no one has the power to make a decision over the other's objections, so conflicts remain unsolved. Recently, the organization has been talking to oil companies involved in a new park proposal in Texas--strange bedfellows considering our focus on fracking, climate change, etc.

There is no room to grow at NPCA. There are many departments comprised of just a few people each (many regional offices have 2-5 staff) so unless someone leaves and creates an opening up the chain, there is nowhere to go. There is also no clear path or set or guidelines for a raise or promotion. Career advancement seems to happen based on the whims and recommendations of each employee’s supervisor, which creates an unequal playing field. Folks with wonderful managers get supported and advance, others not so much. Many of the Regional Directors are hesitant to embrace new ideas and technology, so their teams are held back.