Project Manager: Biodiversity Economy (Fixed-Term Contract)

This five-year fixed-term Project Manager: Biodiversity Economy position sits within South African National Parks (SANParks) at its Groenkloof National Park head office in Pretoria, reporting directly to the Head: Socio-Economic Transformation. The role is central to advancing SANParks’ Vision 2040 by embedding biodiversity-based economic development into the organisation’s strategy, policies and on-the-ground programmes. It is a senior leadership post that requires someone who can balance strategic thinking with hands-on project delivery, working across government, private sector, traditional leadership, local communities and NGOs to grow the biodiversity economy in a way that is inclusive, sustainable and restorative.

Candidates need a post-graduate qualification in sustainable development, environmental management, economics, business administration or a related field, together with at least ten years of experience in biodiversity economy, sustainable development, business development or biodiversity conservation. A strong understanding of South Africa’s socio-ecological landscape and policy environment is essential, as is a proven record of designing and scaling market-based conservation solutions. The ideal candidate will have experience in policy analysis, programme and project management, and community facilitation, with strategic leadership skills grounded in systems thinking. Familiarity with African conservation approaches and community-based natural resource management is required, while experience managing donor-funded projects is an added advantage. The role also demands excellent communication, negotiation, conflict management and team leadership skills, along with financial management, human resource management, monitoring and evaluation, computer literacy, fluency in local languages, and the ability to work independently under pressure. Knowledge of biodiversity economy principles—including the wildlife economy, ocean economy, bioprospecting and restoration economy—is essential, as is the ability to interpret and apply relevant policies and legislation.

The duties are broad and impact-driven. The project manager will lead the development and implementation of policies, strategies and plans on the biodiversity economy, aligning them with national imperatives and global commitments. This includes coordinating sustainable livelihoods and economic development through value chains such as wildlife economy, bioprospecting, eco-tourism and restoration, with a particular focus on youth, women and people with disabilities. The role involves facilitating employment creation through catalytic rural and local economic development projects, mainstreaming biodiversity economy into organisational decision-making, and ensuring fair and equitable sharing of benefits from biodiversity within national parks and mega-living landscapes. It also includes identifying and developing business opportunities, fostering partnerships to attract investment and innovative financing, supporting nature-based enterprises and SMMEs, and championing efforts to redress historical imbalances and advance land reform. The post holder will oversee multiple projects, ensure they are delivered on time and within budget, track progress, assess impact, and manage and mentor a team of professionals. Financial planning, budget monitoring, procurement planning, prevention of irregular expenditure, performance management and staff training are all core responsibilities, as is developing systems to measure and improve the visibility and effectiveness of SANParks’ biodiversity economy programme.