Project Implementation Manager

The Orkney Native Wildlife Project started in 2018 and is a partnership between RSPB Scotland,
NatureScot and Orkney Islands Council.

Its purpose is to work with local communities and landowners to undertake the world’s largest
stoat eradication operation and safeguard the unique and internationally important native
wildlife of Orkney and its thriving wildlife tourism industry. 

Stoats were first reported in Orkney in 2010 and their presence threatens a variety of species
including the unique Orkney vole, hen harriers, short-eared owls, red-throated divers, waders
and seabirds which attract wildlife enthusiasts all year round making a significant
contribution to the local economy. 

Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) and EU LIFE alongside partner contributions
the project is now in a key implementation stage and we are looking for a strong and inspiring
leader to manage the delivery of a non-native species eradication project. 

Key deliverables of the role are

• Managing a multidisciplinary team to deliver project objectives, developing the skills and
  capabilities of the team (and self) towards high performance, celebrating successes and
  promoting the RSPB’s values and positive culture at all times.
• Responsibility for ensuring the work of the team is delivered following RSPB and partner
  procedures and funder requirements in order to manage financial and reputational risk and
  contribute to suitable mitigations. 
• Responsibility for project contribution to papers and reports for partners, the project
  steering group, project board and technical advisory group.
• Responsibility for effective stakeholder management that facilitates collaborative external
  and internal relationships with appropriate stakeholder to ensure successful project delivery. 
• Monitor and oversee management of the project budget so that financial targets are met.

Essential Criteria 

• Demonstrable experience of management and development of multidisciplinary teams.
• Visible, inspiring and effective leadership, engaging and motivating employees and
  volunteers.
• Demonstrated ability to provide advice and interpretation of policy and procedures
  associated with project management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to present, influence and represent the
  project.
• Demonstrable experience of developing and working in partnership with others to achieve
  shared outcomes.
• Project management skills to manage project delivery, manage risks, costs, time and project
  teams.
• Ability to lead change and work under pressure to deliver time sensitive outputs.
• Experience of working with local communities in a collaborative and diplomatic way.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to find creative solutions. 
• Logical and methodical, analytical and a good eye for detail.
• Experience of working in wildlife conservation.
• Competent user of Microsoft Office.

Desirable Criteria 

• Qualification in project management.
• Understanding of and experience of delivering invasive non-native species eradications.
• Experience of working with landowners and living in a rural community. 
• Knowledge of the RSPB and its mission.

This is a 10 month Fixed Term Contract Full Time role for 37.5 hours per week. The RSPB
reserves the right to extend or make this role permanent without further advertising dependent
on business needs at the end of the contract term.

We are looking to conduct interviews for this position on 29th January 2024. For further
information please contact [email protected] 

As part of this application process you will be asked to provide a copy of your CV and complete
an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience
listed above.

The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of
Offenders Act 1974.

We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone
feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a
world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People
of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate,
sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled,
we are particularly interested in receiving your application. Contact us to discuss any
additional support you may need to complete your application.