Operations Director

Join Our Client’s Mission to Protect Africa’s Wildlife as Director of Operations!

Our valued client, dedicated to wildlife conservation in Africa, is seeking an inspiring Director of Operations. If you’re passionate about empowering local communities and restoring biodiversity, this is your chance to make a difference. Lead and consolidate the organization’s operations across Southern & East Africa, ensuring the protection and restoration of our project areas in partnership with local surrounding communities.

Description: As the Director of Operations, you’ll be at the helm of our client’s expanding conservation efforts, guiding their country management teams to success. You’ll optimize day-to-day activities, collaborating closely with the executive leadership team and country managers. Your strategic mindset, leadership skills, and operational excellence will be key in driving our mission forward.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning:

• Partner with the Director of Programs to craft and execute operational strategies that align with our mission and goals.
• Design, update, and implement organizational strategies, plans, and procedures to ensure mission success.

Team Leadership:

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a diverse team, directly supervising Country Managers.
• Foster a collaborative and positive work environment that encourages teamwork and professional growth.
• Collaborate with other conservation organisations, HR, and other training providers to equip staff with the necessary tools and training.

Resource Management:

• Oversee day-to-day operations of country programs, assess performance, and implement improvements where needed.
• Develop and implement annual work plans and budgets with clear priorities and KPIs.
• Ensure timely closure of donor and external grant activities, in collaboration with the Director of Impact.
• Manage budgeting, financial forecasting, and resource allocation to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability.
• Implement cost-effective measures without compromising the quality of conservation programs.

Logistics and Supply Chain:

• Provide insights and recommendations for continuous operational improvement.
• Optimize logistics, procurement, and supply chain activities to support field operations.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors, partners, and relevant stakeholders.

Technology and Systems:

• Implement and optimize technological solutions to enhance operational efficiency and data-driven decision-making.
• Ensure secure, reliable information systems that adhere to industry best practices.

Accountability, Compliance, and Risk Management:

• Monitor and ensure compliance with local and international regulations.
• Develop and implement risk management strategies to protect organizational assets and operations.
• Provide timely technical and financial reporting to the Director of Programs, including a monthly operations report.

Community & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Represent our client at local and global meetings, congresses, and fundraising events.
• Work collaboratively with local communities to build positive relationships and align our initiatives with their needs and aspirations.

Key Working Relationships:

• Supervisor: Director of Programs
• Peers: Director of Impact
• Direct Reports: Country Managers
• Internal Stakeholders: Director of Impact, Steering Committee, Reserve General Managers, Department Heads, Science Team, Development & Marketing Team Members
• External Stakeholders: External Social Conservation NGOs, Community Representatives, Government Partners, and Donors

Job Requirements:

1. Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Conservation, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
• 7-10 years of experience in community development & conservation programs or similar roles, including leadership experience.
• Proven track record in managing and leading large and diverse teams in multi-country or international contexts.

2. Leadership and Management:

• Expertise in overseeing cross-functional teams and collaborating with internal departments and external partners.
• Strong strategic planning and project management skills.
• Experience engaging with various stakeholders, including NGOs, government partners, and donors.

3. Communication and Interpersonal Skills:

• Exceptional communication skills for engaging with internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Proven ability to build and maintain key relationships.
• Strong presentation and negotiation skills for advocating conservation initiatives and securing funding.

4. Technical Skills and Knowledge:

• (In-depth) understanding of conservation principles and practices.
• Familiarity with the latest trends and innovations in the conservation sector.
• Proficiency in relevant software and tools for program management and reporting.

5. Personal Attributes:

• Strong ethical standards and commitment to conservation.
• Flexibility and adaptability in diverse cultural and geographic settings.
• High level of initiative, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

6. Other Requirements:

• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally.