Role Summary
As Manager of Professional Development and Consultancy, you will shape and expand a growing portfolio of training and advisory services for conservation professionals across Africa. Operating within an innovative academic environment, you will lead the end-to-end delivery of short courses, leadership programs, and consultancy projects—driving both impact and financial sustainability.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the identification, design, and acquisition of professional development and consultancy opportunities with conservation organisations, government agencies, NGOs, and private sector partners.
- Develop and manage client relationships to foster long-term collaboration and repeat engagements.
- Create compelling proposals, budgets, and contracts for training and consultancy assignments.
- Represent the institution at conferences, stakeholder meetings, and industry networks to strengthen visibility and generate new business.
- Design and manage open-enrolment and customised learning programs, ensuring relevance and quality for conservation practitioners.
- Oversee course logistics, marketing, recruitment, and delivery in coordination with instructional design and faculty teams.
- Collaborate with subject-matter experts and learning specialists to develop and refine course content.
- Develop marketing strategies and partnerships to grow enrollment and extend reach across African countries.
- Monitor participant feedback and program outcomes to guide continuous improvement.
- Manage the full lifecycle of consultancy projects, from planning and expert coordination to reporting and client communication.
- Ensure timely, high-quality deliverables that meet contractual and impact goals.
- Maintain accurate financial tracking and reporting in alignment with operations and finance teams.
- Support the development of annual plans, revenue targets, and financial forecasts for the portfolio.
- Keep centralised records for proposals, contracts, client interactions, and project documentation.
- Align with fundraising and communications teams to strengthen outreach and partnership strategies.
- Support the production of marketing content, alumni stories, and success narratives.
- Contribute to flagship initiatives such as the annual Business of Conservation Conference and other stakeholder events.
Qualifications
A Bachelor’s degree in Business, Conservation, Environmental Management, Education, or a related field is required. Candidates should bring at least five years of experience in professional training, consultancy, or project management—preferably in conservation or sustainability sectors. Demonstrated success in securing contracts with institutions, governments, or international NGOs is essential.
Strong project management, client engagement, and communication skills are critical. Experience in budgeting, proposal writing, and contract management is expected. Familiarity with digital learning platforms, CRM systems, and collaboration tools such as G-Suite or Slack is important. A proactive, adaptable mindset and a passion for conservation and leadership development in Africa are key.
A Master’s degree in a relevant field is an advantage.
Work Environment
This role operates in a flexible, collaborative setting with a focus on teamwork and innovation. The position is based in Africa and requires close coordination with distributed teams. The culture values ownership, experimentation, and impact—supporting staff to design and test new ideas in education and conservation.
Values and Commitments
The organisation prioritises student-centred learning, first-principles thinking, and ethical leadership. Team members are expected to uphold a zero-tolerance policy for any safeguarding violations and to contribute to a secure, inclusive environment. A shared mission to advance positive change in Africa and beyond guides all activities.
