Conservation Programme Manager at Chipembele Wildlife Education Trust

Chipembele Wildlife Education Trust (CWET) is seeking a full-time Conservation Programme Manager (CPM) to oversee all financial and administrative operations and programmes of the organisation.

CWET is a dynamic and award-winning conservation education NGO that operates in the area of Mfuwe, a rapidly growing rural settlement close to South Luangwa National Park, Zambia. The primary aim of the organisation is to educate local children about wildlife, the environment and conservation.

Self-motivation is key to the success of the position and the programme as a whole. It is located at the Chipembele Conservation Education Outreach Offices in the grounds of Mfuwe Secondary School, Mfuwe, Eastern Province, Zambia and would best be suited to someone with a mature personality who is capable of and happy working largely unsupervised. A degree in business studies (or similar) is essential and relevant post graduate qualifications would be a clear advantage. Extensive experience of financial management is vital. Experience of development work within rural Africa, preferably for an NGO and knowledge of/experience in African wildlife and conservation issues are highly desirable.

The CPM works in close partnership with CWET’s Co-Founder/Executive Director who is based at the Chipembele Conservation Centre, 20km away, and with the CWET Board of Trustees. The CPM is responsible for ensuring the smooth day-to-day operations of the organisation and provides day-to-day staff leadership.

The position will become available on or as soon as possible after 1st November 2019. A long-term commitment to the position is sought.

The position includes but is not limited to the following areas:

A. Assisting and Supporting the Executive Director in managing a dynamic organisation
B. Overseeing, managing and developing CWET staff, organisational administration, finances, financial and reporting systems
C. Managing relations with external key stakeholders
D. Assisting with fund raising initiatives and public relations

Additional work is possible from time to time, and may include partial standing in for the administrative duties of the Conservation Education Manager in his/her absence; training of staff, students and volunteers; administrative assistance with educational programmes, etc.

Candidate profile

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS

The candidate must have:

• A demonstrable track record of at least 5 years’ experience in managing or administering an NGO in Africa or other developing part of the world
• A minimum of a degree in business administration, project management or other relevant subject
• A demonstrable understanding of funding sources for NGOs operating in conservation and education in Africa
• Knowledge of project and organisational financial management tools and systems
• A demonstrable experience of leading teams and blending national and international staff
• Experience in organisational and project planning and monitoring and evaluation systems
• Proficiency in public presentations and managing relationships with key donors and other stakeholders.
• A proven track record in report writing and grant management
• Innovation and creativity to expand and improve the programmes and organisation as a whole

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience and awareness of education, rural development and living and working in Zambia
• A genuine personal interest in and knowledge of wildlife conservation

OTHER CRITERIA

The candidate must be also able to demonstrate:

• Strong proficiency in written and spoken English
• Excellent financial management skills
• Demonstrable leadership skills and characteristics
• The ability to function effectively as part of a small team
• Leadership qualities
• The ability to work with minimal supervision
• Flexibility and improvisation in the face of the many frustrating logistical challenges of living and working in rural Africa

Related Information (forms part of the application process)

• There will be an initial 3 month probationary period. After reciprocal agreement a 21 month contract will be offered (all subject to approval of the Zambian Department of Immigration) with the possibility of renewal for another 2 years.
• A private, fully furnished and equipped office is available
• Salary package includes accommodation and personal local use of vehicle
• 30 days annual leave p.a.
• Relocation costs are at the incumbent’s expense
• Full annual medical insurance with medical evacuation cover for emergencies must be obtained and maintained at the expense of the incumbent
• A current valid unencumbered driver’s licence is required
• Some out of hours work will be required
• If selected a police check for working with children from your national government/authority will be required.

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