Senior Manager, Education

Mandai Wildlife Group; Singapore; On-site; SGD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent wildlife conservation organization in Singapore is looking for an experienced professional to lead volunteer programme development and management. Responsibilities include strategising volunteer initiatives, leading team engagement, and ensuring adherence to governance standards. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in volunteer management, strong leadership skills, and a passion for conservation and community engagement. Join us to make a meaningful impact in wildlife conservation.

Qualifications

• 8-10 years of relevant experience in volunteer management or community engagement.
• 3-5 years in a supervisory or managerial capacity.
• Proven track record in designing and implementing volunteer strategies and training programmes.

Responsibilities

• Strategise and develop volunteer programmes.
• Oversee recruitment, training, and engagement efforts.
• Lead efforts to foster a supportive environment for volunteers.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

People management

Volunteer management

Coaching and development

Engagement best practices

Education

Degree in Social Sciences, Education, Communications, Business Administration, Environmental Studies

Tools

Volunteer management systems

Job description

Mandai Wildlife Group is the steward of Mandai Wildlife Reserve, a unique wildlife and nature destination in Singapore that is home to world‑renown wildlife parks which connect visitors to the fascinating world of wildlife. The Group is driving an exciting rejuvenation plan at Mandai Wildlife Reserve, adjacent to Singapore’s Central Catchment Nature Reserve, that will integrate five wildlife parks with distinctive nature‑based experiences, green public spaces and an eco‑friendly resort.

Job Duties And Responsibilities

Volunteer Strategy & Programme Oversight

• Strategise and develop volunteer programmes to support Mandai Wildlife Group’s purpose and vision.
• Oversee the team’s recruitment, training, engagement efforts for all volunteer programmes.
• Establish and monitor KPIs for volunteer contributions, performance, and programme impact.

Volunteer Training & Development

• Oversee the design and implementation of training frameworks that equip volunteers for evolving roles.
• Ensure volunteer training aligns with role‑specific expectations, safety protocols, and organisational messaging (e.g. conservation, education).
• Monitor training effectiveness and lead team to adapt content based on feedback and operational needs.

Volunteer Engagement & Experience

• Lead efforts to foster a respectful and supportive environment for volunteers through clear standards, team practices, and day‑to‑day interactions.
• Guide the conceptualisation and delivery of tangible volunteer engagement (e.g. appreciation events, bonding sessions, milestone recognition).
• Review and address volunteer feedback to enhance experience, motivation, and contribution.

Stakeholder Engagement, Partnerships & Governance

• Collaborate with internal departments and external partners to identify and co‑create volunteer opportunities.
• Represent volunteer considerations in cross‑functional discussions to ensure alignment with operational needs and guest experience goals.
• Uphold governance standards by ensuring volunteer management practices comply with data protection regulations and organisational policies.

Team Leadership & Development

• Supervise and guide team members to ensure effective delivery of volunteer recruitment, training, and engagement operations.
• Set clear goals and support professional development through regular feedback, training opportunities, and performance management.
• Oversee budget planning, resource allocation, and reporting for volunteer‑related initiatives.

Other Duties

• Develop and deliver cross‑department staff training on guest interaction, accessibility, and engagement‑related topics to support organisational goals.
• Support cross‑functional projects and represent the department in task forces as assigned.

Job Requirements

• Degree in Social Sciences, Education, Communications, Business Administration, Environmental Studies, or related fields.
• At least 8–10 years of relevant experience in volunteer management, community engagement, learning & development, or stakeholder relations, with at least 3–5 years in a supervisory/managerial capacity.
• Proven track record in designing and implementing volunteer strategies, training programmes, and engagement initiatives.
• Experience working in NGOs, education, conservation will be an advantage.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with experience in coaching and developing teams.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and presentation skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences and stakeholders.
• Knowledge of volunteer management systems, training methodologies, and engagement best practices.
• Passion for conservation, education, and community engagement.
• Empathetic and people‑oriented, with the ability to build trust and foster positive volunteer experiences.
• Adaptable and resourceful, able to work in a dynamic environment with evolving priorities.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings, weekends, or public holidays to support volunteer and organisational events.