Environmental Program Lead

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Professional development and training

Travel opportunities

Dynamic and collaborative work culture

Impactful conservation work

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Environmental Program Lead to spearhead biodiversity protection, sustainable resource management and community environmental education from Richards Bay. You will manage a team of scientists and field officers, pursue grants and donor support, and collaborate with government and NGOs to advance conservation goals.

The role requires a strong scientific background, 7+ years of program management experience, and hands-on leadership to shape the organization’s environmental

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, Ecology, or related field.
• Experience leading environmental programs and conservation science projects.
• Strong grant writing and fundraising skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to build diverse partnerships with government, communities, and NGOs.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and execution of strategic environmental conservation programs.
• Manage all project lifecycles: planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation.
• Supervise and mentor environmental scientists and field staff.
• Identify funding opportunities through grants, donor relations, and partnerships.
• Build relationships with government bodies, communities, academia, and stakeholders.
• Develop and deliver educational materials and outreach on environmental issues.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and policies.
• Prepare progress and financial reports for management and donors.
• Represent the organization at conferences and forums.
• Contribute to strategic planning and organizational direction.

Skills

Grant writing

Fundraising

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Team management

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Environmental Science / related field

Tools

GIS software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading environmental conservation charity, is seeking a visionary Environmental Program Lead to spearhead impactful initiatives from their Richards Bay base. This critical role involves developing, implementing, and overseeing projects focused on biodiversity protection, sustainable resource management, and community environmental education. The ideal candidate will possess a strong scientific background, extensive project management experience, and a passion for conservation. You will be responsible for managing a team of environmental scientists and field officers, securing funding through grant writing and donor engagement, and fostering collaborations with government agencies, local communities, and other environmental organizations. This position requires strategic thinking, exceptional leadership, and a hands‑on approach to achieving conservation goals. You will play a key role in shaping the organization's environmental agenda and ensuring its long‑term success in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of strategic environmental conservation programs.
• Manage all phases of project lifecycles, including planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
• Supervise and mentor a team of environmental professionals and field staff.
• Identify and pursue funding opportunities through grant applications, donor relations, and corporate partnerships.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government bodies, local communities, academic institutions, and other stakeholders.
• Develop and deliver educational materials and outreach programs on environmental issues.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and policies.
• Prepare regular reports on program progress, achievements, and financial status for senior management and donors.
• Represent the organization at conferences, workshops, and public forums.
• Contribute to the overall strategic planning and direction of the organization's conservation efforts.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, Ecology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in environmental program management and conservation science.
• Demonstrated success in leading complex conservation projects and managing teams.
• Strong grant writing and fundraising skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to build and maintain effective partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
• In‑depth knowledge of South African environmental legislation and conservation challenges.
• Proficiency in project management tools and GIS software is advantageous.
• A passion for environmental advocacy and sustainable practices.
• Ability to conduct fieldwork in potentially challenging conditions.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to lead significant environmental initiatives in the Richards Bay area.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment with passionate colleagues.
• Contribution to vital conservation efforts impacting biodiversity and ecosystems.
• Potential for international travel for relevant conferences and collaborations.