Calling All Conservation Leaders!
Are you a driven professional with a passion for protecting wildlife and their habitats? Do you thrive in fast-paced environments and have a proven track record in program management? If so, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is seeking a dynamic Program Manager to join our team in Cameroon.
Position Overview:
- Title: Program Manager
- Reports To: Country Director
- Location: Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Start Date: Immediate Opening
- Type: Full-time
- Travel: Local travel to field sites and sub-offices
About WCS: WCS is a global leader in wildlife conservation, working to save wildlife and wild places through science-based solutions and community engagement. With over a century of experience, WCS operates in more than 60 countries and has helped establish over 150 protected areas worldwide.
About WCS Cameroon:
Our Cameroon Program focuses on safeguarding biodiversity across three critical landscapes: Bouba-Ndjida and Benoue National Parks in the North, Mbam Djerem National Park in the Central/Adamawa/Eastern region, and the Takamanda Mone landscape in the Southwest. We collaborate closely with the Ministry of Forests and Wildlife and local communities to protect species, habitats, and ecosystems for the benefit of both nature and people.
Your Role:
As Program Manager, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing the day-to-day management of our diverse project portfolio in Cameroon. You will provide direct support to the Country Director and Project Directors, ensuring the effective implementation of our conservation strategies. This exciting opportunity requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and a deep commitment to wildlife conservation.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you are passionate about wildlife conservation and have the skills to lead a high-impact program, we encourage you to apply. Visit our website for full details and to submit your application. Join WCS Cameroon and be part of a global network of conservation professionals dedicated to protecting our planet’s most precious resources.
Key Responsibilities:
- Project and Grant Management Leadership: Spearhead strategic development, proposal preparation, and donor communication for diverse conservation projects and grants. Ensure adherence to donor regulations and timely reporting, enhancing project impact and sustainability.
- Funding and Grant Opportunity Optimization: Proactively identify, track, and secure funding opportunities from a wide range of sources. Meticulously manage databases for grants, consultancies, and field projects, ensuring seamless coordination with the country program office.
- Proposal Development and Grant Implementation Partnership: Collaborate closely with the Country Director and field project managers to craft compelling proposals and track grant implementation progress. Champion effective communication and teamwork to drive successful outcomes.
- Donor-Field Project Liaison: Serve as a pivotal link between donors and field projects, ensuring timely progress reporting and adherence to grant agreement terms. Foster transparent and mutually beneficial relationships, facilitating project success and donor satisfaction.
- Technical Support and Strategic Guidance: Empower field Project Directors with technical support and strategic guidance, ensuring the effective implementation of existing work plans. Uphold WCS policies, donor regulations, and government requirements in project administration.
- Operational Coordination and Communication: Orchestrate seamless operational support between the Yaoundé office and field projects/sub-offices. Facilitate effective internal communications across diverse teams, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- Strategic Planning and Representation: Actively contribute to strategic planning for the WCS-Cameroon Program, aligning with organizational goals and priorities. Represent WCS at national and international meetings as requested, showcasing program achievements and building key relationships.
- Budgetary Oversight and Partnership Cultivation: Collaborate with the Cameroon Finance Director to monitor and track project budgets, ensuring financial sustainability and responsible resource management. Nurture strong relationships with national and international NGOs, technical partners, and donors, fostering collaboration and participation in program implementation.
Qualifications:
- Advanced Degree: Master’s or Ph.D. in wildlife biology, anthropology, conservation, or a related field.
- Proven Experience: Minimum of three years’ experience in conservation management or policy, with expertise in Cameroon or Central Africa preferred. Demonstrated success in large project/program management, personnel management, administration, and fundraising.
- Exceptional Skills: Outstanding communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills. Proven ability to thrive in multicultural teams and deliver results.
- Language Proficiency: Excellent spoken and written English and French.
- Commitment to Conservation: Passion for wildlife conservation and alignment with WCS’s mission and values.
Additional Requirements:
- Willingness to travel to field offices in Cameroon.
- Adaptability, initiative, and a collaborative mindset.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
This role presents an exciting opportunity to make a significant contribution to conservation efforts in Cameroon. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in driving project success, fostering collaboration, and achieving meaningful impact for wildlife and communities.
Application Process:
Qualified candidates who possess the skills, experience, and passion for conservation outlined above are encouraged to submit their application through the link below by June 20, 2024.
WCS is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We value the unique perspectives and contributions of individuals from all backgrounds and are committed to equal opportunity employment. We actively seek team members who share our dedication to conservation and fostering a collaborative and supportive environment.
