Project Coordinator

TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR)

Recruitment of a Lesio-Louna Project Coordinator (PLL)

1. Context and justification

The Lesio-Louna Gorilla Nature Reserve (RNGLL) is a protected area dedicated to biodiversity conservation, in particular the reintroduction and protection of orphaned gorillas, the preservation of natural ecosystems, the promotion of scientific research and the involvement of local communities in the sustainable management of natural resources.

The RNGLL also aims to promote, in collaboration with the relevant authorities, responsible eco-tourism for wildlife observation, contributing to local development and the enhancement of natural heritage.

The current results of the Project are considered satisfactory. However, the imminent implementation of a new inclusive project focusing on infrastructure development, logistics reinforcement, research and other structural actions requires a strengthening of governance, institutional discipline and accountability mechanisms, in a context of increased mobilisation of financial resources.

In this context, The Aspinall Foundation (TAF) intends to recruit a Coordinator with strong managerial and strategic skills to ensure effective coordination and management in line with the requirements of technical and financial partners.

2. General objective of the position

Ensure the strategic, institutional and operational coordination of the RNGLL, guaranteeing the achievement of conservation, community development and sustainable biodiversity enhancement objectives, within a transparent, rigorous and results-oriented governance framework.

3. Institutional positioning

The Coordinator reports to TAF’s Director of Overseas Projects (DPO) and has overall responsibility for coordinating the RNGLL while collaborating with the Reserve’s Curator/Counterpart.

He/she is assisted and deputised by a TAF Project Administrator, particularly for aspects of cooperation, administrative and financial monitoring.

4. Main responsibilities and tasks

4.1 Strategic and operational coordination

Ensure the planning, coordination and monitoring of all Project activities;

Manage the organisation of activities corresponding with project objectives and objectives of the various partnerships (ACFAP/ MEF/ PALF), financing agreements (ProClimat), and reporting requirements of such;

Supervise the implementation of activities relating to:

• the reintroduction and protection of gorillas;
• conservation of ecosystems and biodiversity;
• scientific research and ecological monitoring;
• environmental education and awareness-raising among local communities;
• and the development of eco-tourism (wildlife and landscape observation).

Set up projects to seek funding in agreement with the TAF DPO Participate in the development of a management plan for the RNGLL

4.2 Administrative and financial governance

• Ensure overall supervision of the administrative and financial management of the project
• Validate annual work plans and budgets
• Authorise and schedule expenditure in accordance with the procedures in force
• Ensure that operations comply with donor rules and contractual commitments;
• Validate administrative and financial reports before transmission to partners.

4.3 Human resources management and institutional discipline

• Manage, coordinate and supervise all project staff in collaboration with the Curator/Counterpart;
• Strengthen institutional discipline and ensure compliance with internal rules;
• Manage staff roles, responsibilities and reporting lines;
• Manage staff training and development ;
• Manage and resolve internal conflicts to ensure cohesion within teams;
• Evaluate staff performance and propose corrective actions as appropriate.

4.4 Institutional relations and partnerships

• Represent TAF before the relevant national and local authorities;
• Ensure coordination with the state services made available to the Project;
• Maintain effective working relationships with technical and financial partners;
• Prepare annual steering committees in accordance with the memorandum of understanding with the MEF;
• Promote the active and structured participation of local communities in the management of the reserve.

4.5 Monitoring, evaluation and reporting

• Oversee the project’s monitoring and evaluation system;
• Ensure the quality, reliability and timeliness of reporting;
• Monitor performance indicators and propose corrective measures;
• Capitalise on best practices and lessons learned.

4.6 Operational management

• Manage monthly monitoring missions, camera-trap data collection and reporting;
• Improve overall monitoring of the reserve, including the most remote areas;
• Continue to develop and improve the management plan for RNGLL;
• Prepare annual steering committees in accordance with MOU with MEF;
• Establish and supervise a maintenance schedule for project transport and physical infrastructure;
• Manage and develop partnerships with local communities;
• Develop further tourism activities in the RNGLL.

5. Required profile and qualifications

5.1 Education

University degree in engineering, master’s degree or equivalent in:

• natural resource management,
• environment/biodiversity,
• project management,
• administration or related disciplines.

5.2 Experience

Minimum 5 to 8 years of relevant professional experience, including:

• at least 5 years in a project coordination or management position;
• proven experience in managing or supervising projects funded by international donors;
• Proven experience in protected area management or conservation projects.

5.3 Skills

• Strong leadership and proven managerial skills;
• Good command of international donor procedures;
• Ability to ensure rigorous governance and effective supervision;
• Ability to work in complex and multicultural institutional environments.

5.4 Languages

• Must be fluent in French;
• Knowledge of English is a major asset.

6. Personal qualities

• Integrity and a strong sense of responsibility;
• Rigour, impartiality;
• Organisational skills and results-oriented approach;
• Ability to manage sensitive situations and make strategic decisions.

7. Location of work

Most of the time will be spent in the Lesio-Louna Reserve, based at the Abio II camp but with time also at other field camps in the Reserve, and on camping missions. Work will need to be undertaken in the capital city of Brazzaville as appropriate.

8. Accommodation

Accommodation will be provided in the Lesio-Louna Reserve, and in Brazzaville when necessary.

9. Leave

Paid annual leave of absence of six weeks during the period of the contract or pro rata on the basis of completed calendar months.

10. Insurance

Medical insurance will be covered.

11. Contract duration and terms

Fixed-term contract, renewable on the basis of performance;

12. Salary

€28,000 – negotiable dependent on experience.