Country Manager, Cameroon

About us:

ZSL’s Cameroon Programme was established in 2007 and now encompasses a diverse portfolio of projects to address existing and emerging threats to biodiversity including support to protected area management, private sector partnerships to reduce impacts on biodiversity and combatting wildlife crime. Based out of Yaoundé, the programme currently has field sites in the south east of Cameroon and at Lake Ossa, close to Douala.

Overview of the Role:

ZSL are seeking an individual with extensive management experience to lead and drive forward this rapidly expanding country programme. The successful candidate will be ZSL’s representative in Cameroon and be responsible for the effective implementation of ZSL’s conservation work in the country. The post holder will report to ZSL’s West and North Africa Programme Manager in London and oversee all ZSL’s operations in Cameroon. The successful candidate will work closely with colleagues in the North and West Africa team and other ZSL staff to continue our existing activities and expand the scope of our work in Cameroon in order to contribute to ZSL’s overall conservation objectives. The post holder will work to build on achievements to date, strengthen existing partnerships, explore and develop new relationships and secure funding to support the programme.

Main responsibilities will include:

• Oversee the implementation of a ZSL Cameroon Strategic Plan through the effective implementation of existing projects and the development of new projects.

• Oversee project design, implementation, management and monitoring and evaluation within the country.
• Ensure the effective management of ZSL’s offices, staff and other resources.
• Maintain and nurture existing, and develop new, relationships and partnerships with relevant actors in the country, including government authorities, donor agencies, national and international NGOs, private sector and research institutions.
• Identify fundraising opportunities and secure funds for the programme, including the preparation of fundraising proposals.

Person Specification:

This is a senior management level position which requires proven experience of managing multiple projects, teams of people and associated resources in developing countries, ideally Central Africa. The successful applicant will have a track record of securing and managing funds from a range of funding sources and experience of developing and managing relationships with partners and donors. Candidates should also have:

• An excellent standard of written and spoken French and English.
• A higher degree in a relevant subject or equivalent work experience.
• Experience of strategic planning and project and/or programme development.
• A good knowledge and understanding of current international and Africa specific biodiversity conservation issues.
• Proven grant management skills.
• Strong organisational skills, with an ability to manage competing priorities and delegate effectively.

Please note: The post will be based in Yaoundé with national travel to attend meetings and workshops and to visit field sites in Cameroon. Some travel within Central Africa may also be required. The position is to start as soon as possible. A full job description is available from www.zsl.org/jobs

Benefits: Thirty days annual leave, annual return flight from country of residence to Cameroon, local health insurance, travel insurance under ZSL’s group insurance policy.

To Apply:

Applicants will need to upload their CV and covering letter (detailing relevant experience and skills, stating why they want the position and including details of availability) and can do this by clicking the "Apply for this job online" button on our website. If you have any queries regarding this position or when applying through the system please contact Human Resources at hr@zsl.org.

Closing Date: Midnight Friday 1st April 2016 Anticipated Interview Date: W/c – 18th April 2016

The Zoological Society of London is a charity registered in England and Wales: no. 208728.