Security Manager & Anti-Poaching Manager

Bidvest Protea Coin; Mpumalanga; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading conservation security firm in KwaZulu-Natal seeks a Security & Anti-Poaching Manager to lead security teams and implement effective conservation strategies. This role requires at least 5 years of management experience in security, preferably within wildlife conservation. Strong communication skills and the ability to build relationships with various stakeholders are essential. Candidates must hold a Grade 12 qualification, firearm competency certificate, and a valid driver’s license. Accommodation is usually provided on-site.

Benefits

Accommodation usually provided

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5–10 years of security management experience in a suitable environment.
• Proven experience managing an Anti-Poaching Unit or conservation teams.
• Strong understanding of wildlife protection and counter-poaching operations.

Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate all security personnel and Anti-Poaching Unit.
• Ensure coverage of all designated zones.
• Direct anti-poaching efforts to safeguard wildlife.

Skills

Leadership and team management

Knowledge of South African wildlife legislation

Problem-solving ability

Strong communication skills

Relationship building

Education

Matric / Grade 12

Relevant tertiary qualification in Security Management or similar

Firearm competency certificate

PSIRA registration – Grade B or higher

Valid Driver’s License with off-road experience

Job description

Scope of Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Management of Security and APU Teams
   • Manage, lead, and coordinate all security personnel and the Anti-Poaching Unit (APU).
   • Ensure 24/7 coverage of all designated zones within the reserve, including shift planning, patrol deployment, and emergency standby rotations.
   • Train and mentor team members to uphold discipline, operational efficiency, and ethical standards.
   • Maintain readiness and morale of all teams in line with conservation and security goals.
2. Access Control & Gate Operations
   • Oversee and enforce all access control protocols at reserve gates.
   • Ensure accurate logging of vehicle and personnel entry and exit.
   • Implement and audit visitor and contractor clearance procedures.
   • Prevent unauthorized access and manage high-risk entry scenarios.
3. Wildlife Protection & Anti-Poaching Operations
   • Direct and supervise all anti-poaching efforts to safeguard wildlife and prevent illegal activity.
   • Conduct risk assessments, deploy patrol strategies, and react to threats in real time.
   • Work closely with law enforcement and conservation bodies to share intelligence and support prosecution when needed.
   • Maintain daily records and incident reports for wildlife interactions, incursions, or suspicious activities.
4. Client, Owner, and Guest Relations
   • Build and maintain strong, respectful relationships with the reserve’s primary client, private owners, and visiting guests.
   • Ensure guest and owner safety through visible presence, quick response to security queries, and discreet vigilance.
   • Provide professional support during incidents or emergencies, ensuring minimal disruption to the guest experience.
5. Property, Equipment, and Asset Protection
   • Safeguard all buildings, fences, roads, and physical assets of the reserve.
   • Monitor and prevent incidents of theft, vandalism, or damage to property.
   • Oversee the correct usage, storage, and inventory management of all security and APU equipment, including:
   • Firearms and ammunition
   • Radios and communication gear
   • Surveillance technology
   • Patrol vehicles and field gear
6. Firearms Control
   • Maintain a strict inventory of all issued firearms and ammunition.
   • Ensure compliance with firearm regulations and company SOPs.
   • Oversee regular firearm inspections, cleaning, and reporting.
   • Lead or facilitate competency training and license renewals as required.
7. Fire Risk and Safety Policy Management
   • Implement and enforce the fire prevention policy of the reserve.
   • Coordinate firebreak maintenance, early detection systems, and emergency response planning.
   • Train staff on fire awareness and response drills.
   • Liaise with local fire authorities and neighboring reserves on joint response protocols.
8. Compliance, Reporting, and Administration
   • Ensure compliance with company policies, reserve regulations, and all relevant legislation.
   • Submit accurate reports, including:
     • Daily activity logs
     • Incident and response records
     • Equipment and inventory audits
     • Monthly performance and risk assessments
9. Strategic Support & Reserve Development
   • Contribute to the long-term development of the reserve’s security and conservation strategy.
   • Identify areas for improvement and recommend solutions that enhance operational integrity.
   • Support other departments with integrated planning and coordination (e.g., maintenance, hospitality, environmental teams).

Minimum Requirements for Security & Anti-Poaching Manager Position

1. Experience & Background
   • Minimum of 5–10 years of security management experience, preferably in a game reserve, conservation, military, or law enforcement environment.
   • Proven experience in managing an Anti-Poaching Unit (APU) or conservation protection teams.
   • Experience working in remote or rural locations with minimal supervision.
   • Strong understanding of wildlife protection, bush tactics, and counter-poaching operations.
2. Education & Qualifications
   • Matric / Grade 12 (minimum requirement).
   • Relevant tertiary qualification in Security Management, Nature Conservation, Law Enforcement, or similar (advantageous).
   • Firearm competency certificate (business use) – must be up to date.
   • PSIRA registration – Grade B or higher.
   • Valid Driver’s License with off-road experience (Code B or EB); PDP is an advantage.
3. Skills & Competencies
   • Strong leadership and team management skills.
   • Knowledge of South African legislation related to wildlife, firearms, and protected areas.
   • Excellent problem-solving and decision-making ability, especially in crisis situations.
   • Competent in writing incident reports, investigations, and operational planning.
   • Strong communication skills, both verbal and written – able to engage with staff, clients, landowners, and authorities professionally.
   • Ability to build relationships with law enforcement, conservation authorities, and local communities.
4. Personal Attributes
   • High level of integrity, discipline, and accountability.
   • Ability to work long hours, weekends, and holidays as needed.
   • Physically fit and mentally resilient for fieldwork and high-pressure scenarios.
   • Committed to wildlife conservation and guest safety.
   • Willingness to live on-site at the reserve (accommodation usually provided).