Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is hiring a Manager, Conservation Operations – Ghana

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is hiring a Manager, Conservation Operations – Ghana to provide leadership and expertise for our on-the-ground conservation program. You will manage an in-country team and collaborate closely with local communities, NGOs, and government partners to realize an inclusive conservation plan for the Wechiau Community Hippo Sanctuary and the Avu Lagoon Community Protected Area.

What You'll Do

• Manage a team of 3 direct reports and 1 indirect report, including hiring, directing workplans, training, coaching, and performance management.
• Oversee communications and interactions with local communities, NGOs, government agencies, and other partners across both conservation sites.
• Provide strategic direction and support for equipment purchasing, office maintenance, field vehicle needs, and administrative functions.
• Identify and implement efficiencies in Ghana program operations in coordination with the Calgary-based team.
• Mentor and build the capacity of one or more Ghanaians into the Manager role by the completion of the deployment term.
• Collaborate with Project Coordinators to write regular progress reports and Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning reports for Global Affairs Canada, donors, and leadership.
• Develop and implement health and safety protocols at Ghana field program sites.
• Monitor and enforce requirements of contracts and agreements by program staff, partners, and contractors, and update contracts as required.
• Train Ghanaian office program staff and partners on project management techniques and tools.
• Manage the operational program budget and coordinate the flow of funding between the Canadian office, Ghana office, and program partners.
• Provide mentorship and oversight to the Ghana-based Bookkeeper.
• Ensure adherence to procurement processes and policies by all staff and collaborating partners.
• Collaborate with Project Coordinators to make recommendations to the project Executive Director and Board based on Steering Committee meetings.

What We're Looking For

• A Bachelor’s degree in conservation, biology, ecology, international development, business, or other relevant programs.
• At least 5 years of progressive experience in conservation science, conservation research, natural sciences, or a related field.
• Experience supervising and mentoring a team of staff.
• Experience coordinating projects with international teams and working with remotely based colleagues across time zones.
• Experience in writing reports for major grants or donors.
• Cultural sensitivity from working in the Global South.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to monitor and enforce requirements of contracts and agreements.

Nice to Have

• A Master’s degree in science, arts, business, or other programs; equivalent combinations of education or work experience will be considered.
• Experience developing and implementing health and safety protocols at field program sites.
• Experience working in the conservation or non-profit sector.
• Experience working on projects funded by Global Affairs Canada.
• Project management experience (via training or practice) and associated tools.
• Knowledge and/or experience in environmental or international development field work.
• Experience living or working in West/Central Africa, particularly Ghana.
• Familiarity with budgeting, expense purchasing, procurement processes, and inventory management.

Team & Environment

You will manage a Ghana-based team of 3 direct reports and 1 indirect report, oversee the Ghana office operations, and collaborate closely with Canada-based staff to drive the conservation program forward.

Benefits & Compensation

• Competitive compensation, vacation and flex days entitlement.
• While based in Ghana, eligible living expenses covered, provisions for benefits coverage, and travel to the Canadian office in Calgary, Alberta twice a year.
• Employer matching RRSP program.
• Discounts on food, beverage, and merchandise.
• Participation in the Staff Pass Benefit plan.
• A fun, rewarding work environment.

Work Mode

This is a local-country position based in Accra, Ghana.

The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo strives to cultivate a workplace where everyone feels welcome and empowered to bring their authentic selves to work. As a conservation organization, we respect and value the diversity of all life and come together as individuals and teammates to achieve the organization’s mission and vision. We recognize the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion, and work to advance our culture to ensure diverse viewpoints are heard and everyone has an equitable chance to succeed and thrive.