The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is seeking a dynamic, experienced and motivated Program Manager to provide technical, administrative and program implementation support to a large and complex protected area; the Kahuzi-Biega National Park, in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. WCS is implementing a 10-year agreement with the DRC Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature (ICCN – Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature) to manage the KBNP under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP). The successful candidate will provide programmatic leadership to the KBNP team, working closely with the KBNP and DRC country leadership. S/he will ensure that the KBNP program works effectively and efficiently to drive impact according to the KBNP Strategic Plan.
Candidates must demonstrate they have the necessary experience and skills to work within a challenging, dynamic and complex program. They will need to demonstrate that they are able to grasp the complexities of situations as they arise, adapt work accordingly and manage their time well. The Program Manager will be part of the WCS DRC country program, with the opportunity to interact and exchange experiences with other protected area programs and technical support staff in the region.
Internal Qualification Requirements
WCS is looking for a candidate who has:
Either an advanced degree (Masters) in the fields of natural resource management, conservation, development, social sciences or similar, or a first degree (Bachelor’s) with demonstrated and appropriate experience.
Demonstrated on-the-ground experience (>5 years) in project management in the field of biodiversity conservation or natural resource management
Experience working in the project/program cycles of design, implementation, M&E, reporting, work planning and budgeting, with knowledge of bilateral donors a distinct advantage
Experience working, coordinating and collaborating with diverse sets of stakeholders – such as local NGOs, government officials, donor representatives and the private sector
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English, with French or Swahili a distinct advantage
Demonstrated experience of working in remote areas under challenging conditions and as an effective member of a multi-cultural team, with experience of working in Central Africa or DRC an advantage
Energetic, flexible, adaptable, creative and ambitious, with a drive to get things done
Interest in conservation and committed to the mission of the Wildlife Conservation Society