Conservation Director

Job Posting Organization:
WWF (World Wildlife Fund) is an independent conservation organization that has been operating for over 60 years. With a presence in more than 100 countries, WWF is dedicated to achieving both on-the-ground and global policy action to protect and restore species and their habitats. The organization is committed to transforming markets and policies toward sustainability, and it engages a diverse workforce with expertise ranging from conservation science to finance. WWF aims to address the impacts of climate change and nature loss, advocating for urgent conservation efforts to restore the planet.

Job Overview:
The Conservation Director at WWF Caucasus Programme Office (WWF CauPO) is responsible for setting strategic conservation and policy directions for the South Caucasus region, which includes Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. This role involves supervising the performance of conservation initiatives through robust frameworks and indicators, directing regional conservation programs, and ensuring coherent design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and delivery. The Conservation Director will lead partner development and stakeholder engagement in Georgia, focusing on policy influence, conservation delivery, and fundraising. The position requires strategic leadership to guide conservation teams and consultants in project implementation across the three countries, ensuring that conservation strategies are effectively executed and aligned with WWF's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Serve on the Regional Management Team (RMT) and contribute to region-wide policies, systems, and standards.
• Maintain strong coordination with RMT members to align activities with WWF CauPO objectives.
• Lead strategic conservation planning processes with Conservation Managers, ensuring a coherent WWF CauPO Conservation Plan aligned with regional priorities.
• Oversee the review, updates, and implementation of the WWF CauPO conservation strategy and associated policies.
• Lead the Conservation team in developing, submitting, and monitoring funding proposals.
• Ensure effective monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of the WWF CauPO Conservation Plan, ensuring compliance with WWF standards.
• Develop and maintain quality assurance systems for conservation relevance and programmatic integrity.
• Supervise implementation of Environmental & Social Safeguards (ESSF) across landscapes and projects.
• Design and oversee monitoring and evaluation strategies that align with organizational goals. 1
• Supervise and mentor conservation staff, supporting their performance and professional development. 1
• Act as spokesperson for the WWF CauPO Conservation Programme to various stakeholders. 1
• Lead proposal development to secure funding for the WWF Caucasus strategy and maintain relationships with donors and partners.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or higher in natural resources management, environmental or conservation management, development studies, or relevant fields.
• At least 10 years of practical experience in leading and managing integrated conservation programs at a regional level.
• Demonstrated experience in developing, implementing, and monitoring strategic plans.
• Thorough understanding of conservation and development issues in the region.
• Knowledge of the policy/institutional context related to conservation in the region.
• Experience in developing and writing project proposals for aid agencies, foundations, and corporate donors.
• Excellent understanding of development partnerships, fundraising, and donor strategies.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or higher in fields related to natural resources management, environmental or conservation management, or development studies. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of conservation issues and for effectively leading conservation initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of practical experience in leading and managing integrated conservation programs at a regional level. This experience should include a demonstrated ability to develop, implement, and monitor strategic plans, as well as a thorough understanding of conservation and development issues specific to the South Caucasus region.

Languages:
Strong oral and written communication skills in English, Russian, and Georgian are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with diverse stakeholders and for the successful implementation of conservation initiatives.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Tbilisi, Georgia. The application deadline is set for 10th November 202

• WWF is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace, encouraging applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization values diversity and is dedicated to providing fair and unbiased consideration for all candidates.