Project Manager –India - 12 Months Fixed-Term Contract)

ZSL invites applications to apply for a consultant’s position to manage ZSL’s projects in India with a focus on implementing the ZSL-led Transboundary Tiger Conservation project.

Essential Qualification:

Ph.D. in Wildlife Science/Ecology

At least 15 years field experience in India’s Terai region with over 5 years’ experience in the implementation and management of complex conservation projects along with a strong community engagement focus

Deep knowledge of biological monitoring, implementation of SMART approach and community-based conservation & development initiatives

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the implementation of UKFD-WII-ZSL collaborative project focused on tiger recovery in Nandhaur Wildlife Sanctuary through the effective implementation and coordination with transboundary partners to achieve the objectives of ZSL’s transboundary tiger project across 5 Protected Areas in India and Nepal.
• Responsible for robust project management including budget management
•  Provide technical oversight as necessary
• Conduct regular monitoring and evaluation within the country.
• Ensure the effective management of Project, staff and other resources.
• Provide strong stakeholder coordination and logistic support
• Responsible for technical and financial reporting for all projects as well as conducting and updating the Environment and Social Management Plan in line with donor requirements
• Provide monthly updates on progress of projects against work plan and budget to South and Central Asia Programme Manager
• Maintain and nurture existing relationships and foster partnerships with relevant stakeholders 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 India. 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. Ideally candidates will also have:

• An excellent standard of written and spoken Mongolian, Russian 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 Asia specific biodiversity conservation issues.
• Proven grant management skills.
• Strong organisational skills, with an ability to manage competing priorities and delegate effectively.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, have a solution-focused approach and the ability to make objective decisions under pressure.

Please send your applications including a CV highlighting relevant experience as well as a cover letter to ZSLAsia@zsl.org.

Please note: The consultancy will be based in Dehradun, India with national travel to attend meetings and workshops and to visit field sites in Nandaur Landscape, Uttarakhand. Some travel within Asia may also be required. The position is to start as soon as possible.