Manager, WWF GEF Portfolio – Tanzania

Job Posting Organization:
WWF (World Wildlife Fund) is an independent conservation organization that has been operational for over 60 years. With a presence in more than 100 countries, WWF is dedicated to sustaining the natural world for the benefit of people and the ecosystem. The organization works on various fronts, including protecting and restoring species and their habitats, transforming markets, and influencing policies towards sustainability. WWF engages with diverse stakeholders, including individuals, communities, businesses, and governments, to drive a global movement for climate action and nature recovery. The organization emphasizes the importance of local communities and Indigenous Peoples in conservation efforts, ensuring that they are at the center of climate and nature action. WWF is committed to using its resources and global network to support these communities in creating effective solutions for environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The Manager for the WWF GEF Portfolio in Tanzania will play a crucial role in leading the country-level coordination, development, and oversight of the WWF GEF portfolio. This position requires close collaboration with national government institutions and partners to ensure effective project identification, design, and implementation. The Manager will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of GEF-funded results at the national level, ensuring that projects align with national priorities and GEF requirements. The role demands strong project management skills, technical guidance, and the ability to engage with various stakeholders to facilitate successful project outcomes. The Manager will also contribute to capacity development and provide technical support to government and partner organizations, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of GEF processes and project implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
1) National project origination and pipeline development: Identify and develop WWF GEF Agency project opportunities in Tanzania in collaboration with government entities. Lead the preparation of concept notes and project documents where WWF acts as GEF Agency, ensuring alignment with national priorities and GEF requirements. 2) Project development and quality assurance: Lead and coordinate the development of WWF GEF Agency projects throughout the full project cycle. Provide technical guidance to ensure strong design and impact, while ensuring compliance with WWF and GEF policies during development. Manage internal review and submission processes effectively. 3) Portfolio oversight and implementation support: Oversee the implementation of WWF GEF projects in Tanzania, supporting executing partners in adaptive management and problem-solving. Monitor delivery, risks, safeguards, and compliance, ensuring timely reporting to WWF GEF Agency. 4) Government and stakeholder engagement: Serve as WWF Tanzania’s focal point for GEF-related coordination with government, maintaining strong working relationships with relevant ministries and institutions. Facilitate alignment between projects and national strategies. 5) Representation: Represent WWF Tanzania and WWF GEF Agency in national GEF-related meetings and coordination platforms. 6) Capacity development and technical support: Build understanding of GEF processes among government, partners, and WWF Tanzania teams, providing targeted training and guidance on project design and implementation. 7) Contribution to WWF GEF Agency: Provide feedback to improve WWF GEF Agency tools and processes, sharing lessons learned from the Tanzania portfolio.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in environmental science, economics, public policy, or a related field. Candidates must possess strong analytical, coordination, and problem-solving skills, as well as excellent writing and reporting abilities. The ability to manage multiple priorities and engage effectively with stakeholders is essential. Fluency in both English and Swahili is mandatory, and candidates should demonstrate results-oriented work ethics and the ability to work independently under pressure. Strong collaboration and relationship-building skills, along with good judgment and decision-making capabilities, are also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as environmental science, economics, public policy, or related disciplines. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental conservation and project management within the context of GEF-funded initiatives.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have 6–8 years of relevant experience, with a strong background in project design and management. Experience working with government institutions in Tanzania is essential, as is familiarity with GEF or similar multilateral funds. This level of experience is necessary to navigate the complexities of project implementation and stakeholder engagement effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Swahili is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary requirement is strong communication skills in both English and Swahili to facilitate effective engagement with local communities, government entities, and international partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, and is classified at the managerial level. Work permit restrictions may apply, and early applications are encouraged as the organization will review applications throughout the advertising period and reserves the right to close the advert early. WWF is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization emphasizes equal opportunity and fair consideration for all candidates, regardless of their background.