Project Manager

Overview of the role:  

The Project Manager will be responsible for the effective management and coordination of the MENTOR-HAWLT program, which aims to combat the illegal trade in reptiles and amphibians in Kenya and East Africa. This position will oversee the implementation of all program activities, manage relationships with stakeholders, and ensure compliance with donor and organizational standards.

Key responsibilities:  

• Meet regularly with USFWS (bi-weekly or semi-regularly as needed) on MENTOR co-design, including criteria for selection of focus areas, Fellows, Mentors, Trainers, and curriculum development
• Lead capacity development efforts for the MENTOR Fellows
• Work with the Mentors to facilitate capacity development for the Fellows and develop a supportive culture for continuous learning and mentoring
• Draft position opportunity for Fellows and Mentors and assist with advertising the MENTOR program within the East Africa conservation community
• Coordinate Fellow and Mentor selection processes
• Lead development of the goals, learning objectives and desired competencies, methods, specific products, KSAPs (Knowledge, Skills, Attitudes, and Practices), placement, and timeline for the Fellowship program based on consultation with relevant experts and USFWS
• Co-develop the MENTOR training curriculum (virtual and in-person) together with USFWS
• Co-design monitoring and evaluation (M&E) activities for MENTOR
• Compile essential background materials, resources, and emerging technologies for use by the Fellows
• Set up communication mechanisms as learning and coordination tools for the Fellows, such as WhatsApp groups, Slack channels, and websites
• Work with Mentors and academic institutions to design an orientation program and hands-on training
• Help address administrative and technical concerns of Fellows
• Organize meetings of Fellows and on-the-ground activities as part of MENTOR program activities
• Help USFWS plan the MENTOR Forum
• Provide regular reports to USFWS and other partners
• Communicate ongoing results of the MENTOR program to conservation partners
• Guide development of interim and final reports and products
• Develop mechanism to facilitate continued collaboration among MENTOR Team

• Bachelor’s degree in wildlife conservation, natural resource management, environmental science, conservation social science or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in project management within the conservation sector, preferably with a focus on capacity building and training programs.Proven ability to work effectively in partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders in Kenya.
  

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.  

What do we offer? 

At ZSL, we are proud of our approach to employee benefits. Our benefits include: 

• Our vision and purpose - you’ll work alongside colleagues who are passionate about science-led conservation, knowing that you will help us to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wildlife going extinct 
• Holidays – 21 days annual leave during each 12-month period worked, plus national and public holidays as specified by the Kenyan government  
• Wellbeing – access to a blended programme of wellbeing initiatives, including confidential access to our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme 
• Maternity and Paternity leave. 
• Medical cover