BirdLife International is seeking to recruit an enthusiastic and experienced individual for the position of Senior Vulture Conservation Officer. Vulture conservation in Africa is top priority for BirdLife International with a global campaign for this purpose already in place. The work is mostly implemented through a portfolio of small to large donor-funded projects that require focused management not only for effective delivery, but also complementary aligning for maximum impact in conserving vultures in the continent. The main responsibility will be to manage a portfolio of projects addressing vulture threats across East Africa, participate in development of and fundraising for new projects, support communications and policy/advocacy, promote regional collaborations and provide scientific support for evidence-based delivery of these projects.

1. Provide management support for a portfolio of vulture conservation projects, especially in East Africa

• Provide direction and leadership to the project implementation teams in planning and implementing of a selected set of vulture conservation projects in the Africa Portfolio

• In liaison with finance staff, be responsible for the management of project funds, including adherence to appropriate financial procedures and controls, and financial reporting

• Draw up, manage and oversee contractual sub-grants to partners and other legal documents and agreements where necessary

• Ensure adequate work planning and reporting for the projects and for sub-granted partners

• Undertake recruitment of project staff and consultants, negotiation of contracts and ensuring obligation to all applicable regulations concerning these staff in liaison with human resources staff

• Regularly communicate vulture project milestones through developing and publishing vulture news items for webpage, newsletters and other media

• Identify and utilise opportunities for raising the profile of vultures and influencing relevant policies through project activities

• Identify and promote opportunities for regional collaborations and support partners in implementing these projects.

2. Contribute towards development of- and fundraising for new and follow-up vulture conservation projects that contribute to addressing vulture in East Africa, and in line with the BirdLife Africa Vulture Flagship Initiative 

• Support development and submission to donors of fundraising proposals to seek resources for implementation of vulture conservation in line with the Vulture Flagship Initiative

• Support BirdLife Africa partners in development and submission of fundraising proposals for work on vultures

• Develop follow-up ideas for existing vulture conservation projects to fill major observed gaps

3. Provide scientific support for evidence-based development and delivery of vulture conservation projects

• Ensure vulture project development and delivery is grounded on sound science, and where possible project outputs scientifically published

• Put in place mechanisms for measuring impact and progress of vulture projects

4. Any other duties delegated by the Vulture Conservation Manager

• Master’s degree or equivalent experience, or related degree

• MSc in conservation / natural resource management/ related field; knowledge of biodiversity conservation essential; ornithological knowledge and interest in raptors will be an advantage

• Deep understanding of conservation issues in Africa; Good knowledge and interest in ornithology, ecology and applied biology;

• A proven track record of relevant work experience in biodiversity conservation, including planning, proposal writing, project development and management and networking.

• High motivation, desire to achieve; Ability to develop and implement species conservation projects including work planning and excellent time management

• Excellent written and oral communication skills. Ability to work with people with various levels of competence

• Ability to analyse complex problems, and generate creative and pragmatic solutions

• Flexibility and ability to work independently

• Computer literacy in all standard Microsoft office, ability to use ARC GIS would be an advantage

• Good Interpersonal skills necessary to work in a team and operate remotely with partners

• Oral and written fluency in English; working knowledge of French would be an advantage

• Willingness to travel at short notice when required

The position will be based in  Nairobi, Kenya. Only those eligible to work in Kenya need to apply,

Commensurate with experience and qualifications and in accordance with BirdLife International, Africa Division terms and conditions.

• Gross monthly salary: Kes, 120,000 – 150,000

• Length/duration of this position: 2 years (renewable)

• Working hours: Full time 40 hours per week

• Date when the job expected to start: 1 November 2021

Applications, including a covering letter summarizing the applicant’s suitability for the position, a detailed CV and names and contact addresses of three referees known to the applicant in a professional capacity, should be sent via email before the to:  recruitment-west-africa@birdlife.org  by 10 October 2021.

Interviews:  Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.