Senior Director of Operations for African Parks

Job Details Division Kafue National Park Business Unit Park Management Minimum experience Executive Company primary industry Non-profit Organisation Management Job functional area Operations Job Description Position: Senior Operations Manager Reports To: Park Manager Location: Kafue National Park, Zambia Contract Type: Fixed-Term Contract About African Parks African Parks, a non-profit conservation organization, takes comprehensive responsibility for the rehabilitation and sustained management of protected areas in collaboration with governments, local communities, and other relevant stakeholders. We presently oversee Across 13 African nations, there are 24 designated national parks and protected areas. , covering more than 20 million hectares Renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity, the region encompasses vital conservation landscapes across Zambia. We are in search of a highly skilled, forward-thinking professional who excels in strategic planning and consistently delivers measurable results. Senior Operations Manager We seek dynamic individuals to enhance our leadership team at Kazue National Park. Position Purpose The Senior Operations Manager oversees the Conservation and Operations function within the Park, directing operational planning, infrastructure development and upkeep, fleet management, logistics, procurement, law enforcement assistance, and additional operational initiatives. This position guarantees that operational systems, resources, and personnel are aligned to successfully advance the Park’s conservation goals. Key Responsibilities The successful candidate will: Lead the creation, execution, monitoring, and evaluation of the Conservation and Operations work plan and budget, ensuring alignment with the Park Strategy and Five-Year Business Plan. Provide appropriate staffing, equipment, financial resources, and operational support to adequately equip the Conservation and Operations team. Responsible for directing the planning, execution, and ongoing upkeep of infrastructure initiatives while maintaining rigorous budget oversight and cost containment measures. Ensure adherence to established procurement policies and procedures, encompassing tender processes, contractor oversight, and contract administration. Oversee the Park’s entire fleet, which encompasses vehicles, aircraft, boats, and additional operational assets, while ensuring strict adherence to all licensing, permitting, licensing, permits, maintenance schedules, and preventative servicing requirements. Foster and sustain a robust culture centered on health, safety, and risk management across all operational activities. Responsibilities include managing logistics, procurement, warehousing, and inventory processes to optimize operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Provide comprehensive logistical, equipment, and operational resource support to ensure the Law Enforcement function is effectively managed, developed, and maintained at operational readiness. Collaborate with the Law Enforcement Advisor to coordinate and facilitate law enforcement training initiatives, encompassing refresher courses, advanced programs, and internal training sessions. Assist in wildlife relocation initiatives and contribute to conservation projects as needed. Provide operational support by coordinating activities for research partners, visiting scientists, film crews, and other authorized stakeholders. Develop and oversee the Park’s comprehensive fire management strategy, guaranteeing staff receive proper training, equipment remains in optimal condition, and operational readiness is consistently maintained. Develop and sustain a high-performing, values-driven team environment characterized by accountability, collaboration, integrity, and ongoing enhancement. All operational activities must strictly comply with African Parks’ established policies, procedures, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Compile and deliver precise operational reports and performance summaries to the Park Manager in accordance with established deadlines. On occasions when the Park Manager is unavailable or specific tasks have been assigned, assume the responsibilities and act as their official representative. Provide strategic direction and leadership to a team comprising eight managers, guiding operational functions to guarantee the successful and efficient achievement of organizational goals. Minimum Qualifications and Experience Applicants are required to meet the following criteria: A tertiary qualification in a relevant field such as Conservation Management, Wildlife Management, Natural Resource Management, Project Management, Operations Management, or a closely related discipline is required. Alternatively, equivalent practical experience may be considered for this role. A minimum of We seek a candidate with at least a decade of progressively responsible experience in a relevant field. Candidates should possess a degree in a relevant field such as protected area management, conservation operations, or large-scale project management. Extensive background in conservation law enforcement, encompassing operational planning, security management, and staff development initiatives. Professional experience in conservation, non-governmental, or public sector organizations will be considered a valuable asset. Demonstrated capability to thrive in remote, rural, and multicultural settings with adaptability and cultural sensitivity. Proficient in both written and verbal English, with a demonstrated ability to produce clear, concise reports and deliver engaging presentations. Effective interpersonal and communication skills are essential, enabling seamless engagement across all levels of the organization. Proficiency in financial management encompasses expertise in budgeting, cost control, and resource planning. Demonstrated capacity to oversee numerous intricate projects and cross-functional teams concurrently. Accomplished stakeholder engagement expertise, demonstrated through active collaboration with government entities, local communities, tourism operators, and development partners. Proven capability to perform efficiently amidst high-pressure situations within a fast-paced and demanding setting. Required is a high level of physical fitness along with the ability to perform effectively in remote field environments. Requires unwavering integrity, a commitment to professional excellence, strong self-discipline, and the ability to exercise sound judgment. Accomplished leadership capabilities paired with a cooperative management approach and a dedicated focus on fostering team growth and skill enhancement. Demonstrates exceptional skill in making well-informed decisions and exercising strategic judgment when navigating intricate operational challenges. What We Offer This role offers a dynamic opportunity to support one of Africa’s foremost conservation bodies while assuming a pivotal leadership position in overseeing the operations of one of the continent’s most expansive protected regions.

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