Head of Conservation

Kontak Recruitment · Kuruman, Northern Cape

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Few leadership roles come with a mandate this meaningful. This is a rare opportunity to take the helm of conservation operations across one of the most significant privately protected ecosystems in southern Africa, where ecological science, strategic vision, and hands-on fieldwork converge at the highest level.
The successful candidate will join a conservation-focused organisation with over 25 years of commitment to biodiversity preservation and environmental research in the southern Kalahari. The work here is purposeful, the environment is extraordinary, and the impact is generational.
This is not a desk-bound executive role. As Head of Conservation, the appointed leader will be expected to think strategically, operate scientifically, and lead with conviction across conservation management, guiding excellence, and sustainability integration. From shaping long-term ecological strategy to mentoring specialist teams and engaging with global conservation partners, this role demands a credible authority who is equally at home in the boardroom and the bush. The position reports directly to the General Manager and carries genuine influence across the entire operation.

Minimum Requirements

Postgraduate qualification in Conservation Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related field
Minimum of 10 to 15 years' experience in senior conservation or environmental management roles
Proven track record in strategic planning, governance, and team leadership
Strong working knowledge of conservation legislation and international best-practice standards
Demonstrated ability to translate scientific data into actionable management decisions
Exceptional stakeholder management skills across government, community, and donor relationships
High ethical standards with a deep personal commitment to conservation outcomes

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement long-term conservation strategies aligned with organisational objectives and ecological priorities
Oversee biodiversity management plans, habitat restoration programmes, and ecosystem health monitoring
Ensure full compliance with national and international environmental legislation, permits, and reporting standards
Guide and approve ecological research, monitoring programmes, and scientific data analysis
Foster and maintain partnerships with academic institutions, NGOs, and conservation bodies
Lead, mentor, and build capacity within Conservation Management and specialist teams
Develop and manage conservation budgets, capital projects, and funding initiatives including grants and donor partnerships
Represent the organisation at conservation forums, conferences, and industry platforms
Engage with communities, landowners, government agencies, and donors to support community-based conservation and education initiatives
Provide expert strategic guidance on conservation matters to executive management
Identify and manage conservation-related risks including biodiversity loss and environmental degradation