Conservation Director

The Cape Leopard Trust (CLT) is seeking a suitably qualified Conservation Director to lead and drive its research and conservation efforts and develop its long-term strategy.

The Cape Leopard Trust’s purpose and vision is to ensure the long-term survival of leopards, their habitat and their prey, for the benefit of nature and society. We do this through rigorous scientific research, applied conservation initiatives, environmental outreach and education, in collaboration with communities, private landowners and organisations.

Job Summary:

Reporting directly to the CEO, the Conservation Director is responsible for leading, administering, planning, designing and managing all research and conservation initiatives across the organisation.

Location:             Flexible within the greater Cape Town area
Start date:           May 2020
Position type:      Full time
Travel required:  CLT project sites and other areas in the Western Cape
Remuneration:    Market related and commensurate with experience
Closing date:      Wednesday, 25 March 2020 by close of business

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and delivery of the conservation goals and objectives of the CLT;
• Structure regional predator research in partnership with local and international stakeholders and CLT Scientific Advisory Board;
• Create initiatives to strengthen biodiversity and leopard conservation;
• Identify new collaborative opportunities for reducing key threats.
• Advance community-driven stewardship agreements to protect leopards and mountain ecosystems;
• Contribute to fundraising, donor recruitment and relationship maintenance;
• Promote CLT’s work in public venues, through organising/attending conferences and workshops;
• Collaborate with the Environmental Education & Outreach Manager to create appropriate projects;
• Write grant proposals and funding applications.

Essential Requirements:

• A higher degree (PhD) in wildlife ecology, carnivore conservation, or another field relevant to the position’s responsibilities.
• At least five years of experience working in a conservation management or policy position.
• Experience in large multi-faceted project or program management, personnel management, administration, and fundraising.
• Familiar with the academic research landscape and leveraging collaboration opportunities.
• Knowledge of conservation biology, practical conservation, and African conservation issues.
• A five-year publication track record.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Excellent, fluent spoken and written English, understanding of Afrikaans and Xhosa an advantage.
• Private medical care compulsory.

Benefits:

• Limited supply of Hi-Tec and CLT branded clothing;
• Business laptop, business cell phone and internet provision;
• Use of a CLT vehicle;

Application Process:

Interested candidates who meet the above criteria should apply by emailing an application letter and CV together with salary requirements and the names and contact information of three references to: contact@capeleopard.org.za by the 25 March 2020 deadline. Please include “Conservation Director” in the subject line of your email.

Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interview.

The Cape Leopard Trust is an equal opportunities employer and the organisation complies with all employment and labour laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination in hiring and ensures that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and look for future team members who share that same value.