Project Manager – Wildlife Conservation for Development

Overview

Oversee the management of a project focused on wildlife conservation and sustainable development in Ethiopia, aiming to improve protected area management, promote biodiversity conservation in production landscapes, and restore degraded ecosystems.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee overall management of the project across all components.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive project implementation plan.
• Coordinate all project activities, ensuring alignment with objectives, timelines, and budget.
• Revise and approve work plans and terms of reference.
• Facilitate adaptive management based on monitoring findings.
• Serve as the primary liaison between EWCA, UNDP, GEF, GWP, and other stakeholders.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with government agencies, NGOs, local communities, and private sector partners.
• Facilitate stakeholder meetings and consultations.
• Promote project achievements through regular updates.
• Supervise, mentor, and periodically evaluate project personnel.
• Establish strong team spirit through capacity building and fostering ethical standards.
• Provide technical guidance on biodiversity conservation, wildlife management, and sustainable development practices.
• Manage project budgets and financial resources in compliance with UNDP, GEF, and government financial procedures.
• Ensure harmonized financial management across institutions.
• Oversee resource mobilization efforts.
• Develop and implement a robust monitoring and evaluation framework.
• Prepare and submit accurate and timely progress reports.
• Prepare and submit high-quality technical documents and policy briefs.
• Promote knowledge sharing and best practices.

Required Experience

Minimum of 5 years (with master’s degree) or 7 years (with bachelor’s degree) of experience in protected areas and wildlife management. At least 5 years of progressive experience in managing large-scale conservation or development projects, preferably with international funding (e.g., GEF, UNDP). Demonstrated experience in strong leadership and team management. Experience in project planning, coordination, and organizational abilities. Proficient in financial and budget management. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other computer applications necessary for project management and protected area/biodiversity conservation. Expertise in biodiversity conservation strategies and sustainable development principles. Proven experience in protected area and wildlife conservation, community-based natural resource management, or ecosystem restoration. Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement, including government, NGOs, local communities, and international organizations. Experience in financial and administrative management of donor-funded projects. Experience in implementing monitoring and evaluation frameworks. Proven experience and participation in knowledge management platforms such as the Global Wildlife Program.

Qualifications

Advanced degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Natural Resource Management, Conservation, Wildlife Management, Environmental Science or related fields is required. Or A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the areas mentioned above in combination with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be given due consideration in lieu of the advanced university degree.

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