Terai Arc Transboundary Landscape Project Manager

We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct.  Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction.

ZSL manages a long-term programme of work within the transboundary landscape of the Terai Arc between Nepal and India to develop sustainable livelihoods and enable human-wildlife coexistence for communities living within buffer zones around major protected areas. The main purpose of this role is to coordinate a series of major projects being delivered within the landscape, particularly the IUCN’s Integrated Tiger Habitat Conservation Programme. This will require close coordination between our global headquarters in London and field teams in Nepal and India. 

The post holder will liaise internally within ZSL to coordinate management, compliance, and tracking reporting on impact and financial performance to our key donors. 

Programme coordination for the Integrated Tiger Habitat Conservation Programme (ITHCP):

• Lead and coordinate all donor reporting and budget planning
• Act as the Conservation & Policy focal person for donor communications and liaison with field teams to ensure effective donor/partner communication.
• Support appropriate procurement planning and guiding associated compliance paperwork 
• Provide expert guidance to field teams on the development of inclusive market systems within the ITHCP to further project impacts.
• Support country team staff to develop annual workplans and budgets for project activities.

• Extensive in-country and HQ experience of working within conservation development and / or internationally funded programmes, including a proven track record in planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation processes. (Essential)
• Working experience in managing large bi-lateral grants e.g. USAID, KfW, Defra/DfID (Essential).
• A commitment to ensuring that all Nepalese and Indian citizens in the project, including women, the poorest and other marginalised groups, are able to have equal voice and participate (Essential)
• Experience of working in complex political and conservation environments, and a sound knowledge of Nepal, India contexts, with knowledge from other countries in Asia and Africa being also relevant (advantageous)
• Excellent programme and team facilitation skills
• Fluent in English with excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to work to deadlines
• Self-starter and able to set strategic direction for a technical assistance programme.
• Team player, with excellent interpersonal skills working in a multi-disciplinary team and with abilities in consensus-building.
• Ability to work to deadlines
• Willingness and ability to travel extensively in Nepal/ India (subject to COVID 19 travel restrictions).

Please note:  It is anticipated that this role will be home-based as part of the Conservation and Policy Operations Team, with periodic team meetings at London Zoo, subject to COVID 19 restrictions. Travel to Nepal / India may also be required as is the willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends which can be taken back in lieu.

Please find the full job description attached here.

What do we offer?

You will have access to a blended program of Wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Program as well as regular webinars and activities around mental, physical, social and financial wellbeing. The opportunity to be part of an organisation that is committed to improving diversity and inclusion.

Other benefits include 25 days holiday (pro-rated depending on number of days worked a week), life assurance, stakeholder pension (employer contribution is matched up to 12%), complimentary zoo tickets with a 30% discount in shops and online, subsidised canteen, enhanced paternity and maternity leave, season ticket loan, cycle to work scheme, discounted gym membership and access to a wide range of learning and development opportunities.

Ultimately, you’ll know that you’ll help us to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wildlife going extinct.  

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. 

Closing date for applications is Midnight (23:59) on Sunday 12th June 2022