Project Manager - Wildlife Conservation For Development

Organizational Context

The UNDP, specifically its Crisis Resilience Unit in Ethiopia, is implementing the GEF-8 Wildlife Conservation for Development Integrated Program. This initiative addresses critical biodiversity loss drivers in Ethiopia, including habitat degradation, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal trade, which threaten ecological integrity and local livelihoods. The Project Manager role sits within this program, focusing on conservation and sustainable development.

Job Purpose

The Project Manager's primary purpose is to lead and ensure the successful planning, coordination, and implementation of the GEF-8 Wildlife Conservation for Development Integrated Program in Ethiopia. This role is crucial for addressing the escalating threats to Ethiopia's biodiversity, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal wildlife trade, by integrating conservation with sustainable development practices. The incumbent will oversee project activities aimed at enhancing protected area management, restoring degraded ecosystems, strengthening anti-poaching efforts, and promoting nature-based tourism and diversified livelihoods. By effectively managing resources, fostering stakeholder partnerships, and ensuring compliance, the Project Manager contributes directly to achieving significant Global Environmental Benefits, such as improved biodiversity conservation, enhanced land management, and climate resilience. The role ensures the project's alignment with UNDP and GEF guidelines, facilitating adaptive management and knowledge sharing to secure the long-term sustainability of Ethiopia’s terrestrial ecosystems and wildlife, ultimately benefiting local communities and the environment.

Responsibilities

The Project Manager is responsible for the comprehensive oversight and strategic direction of the GEF-8 Wildlife Conservation for Development project. This includes ensuring robust project planning, coordination, and implementation across all components, developing and executing detailed implementation plans, and coordinating activities to align with objectives, timelines, and budget. The role involves significant stakeholder engagement, serving as the primary liaison with the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA), UNDP, GEF, and other partners, fostering effective relationships, and facilitating inclusive consultations. Key duties also encompass team leadership and capacity development, where the manager will supervise, mentor, and evaluate project personnel, building a strong team spirit and providing technical guidance on conservation and sustainable development. Financial management and compliance are critical, requiring adherence to UNDP, GEF, and government financial procedures, alongside overseeing resource mobilization. Furthermore, the manager will establish and implement a robust monitoring and evaluation framework, prepare timely progress reports, and facilitate knowledge management and sharing of best practices to ensure project impact and sustainability.

Work Experience

A minimum of 5 years (with Master’s) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s) of experience in protected areas and wildlife management is required. This includes at least 5 years of progressive experience managing large-scale conservation or development projects, preferably with international funding. Demonstrated experience in leadership, team management, project planning, coordination, and financial/budget management is essential. Expertise in biodiversity conservation strategies, sustainable development, stakeholder engagement, and implementing M&E frameworks is also required.

Skills

Strategic thinking, system thinking, and project management are essential. Key competencies include relationship management, results-based management, and team leadership with a focus on design and management. The role requires adaptive management, innovative problem-solving, and determination. Expertise in biodiversity conservation, illegal wildlife trade, financial management, monitoring and evaluation, and knowledge management is crucial. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant project management software is also necessary.

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