WWF Project Manager HCI

Job Posting Organization:
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) was founded in 1961 and is a leading global conservation organization dedicated to helping people and nature thrive. With operations in over 100 countries, WWF collaborates with communities, businesses, and governments to protect wildlife, conserve vital habitats, and promote sustainable solutions. The organization is grounded in scientific research and driven by collaborative efforts to conserve biodiversity, support resilient communities, and address the pressing challenges of climate change. WWF boasts nearly 1 million members in the United States and over 5 million members globally, reflecting its widespread support and commitment to environmental conservation.

Job Overview:
The Project Manager for the Heart of Conservation Initiative (HCI) will play a pivotal role in leading the Global Coordination Unit (GCU) in supporting HCI partners and ensuring the successful delivery of all project components. This position involves managing a global, Indigenous-led project that addresses systemic barriers faced by Indigenous Peoples and local communities in stewarding their lands and biodiversity. The Project Manager will supervise GCU staff, coordinate with various partners, and ensure that the project aligns with both Indigenous priorities and GEF requirements. The role requires a strategic approach to project management, with a focus on enhancing organizational capacities and facilitating access to sustainable finance for territorial stewardship. The Project Manager will report to the Senior Directors of Conservation Areas and Inclusive Conservation, working closely with multiple stakeholders to achieve the project's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Manager will be responsible for the technical delivery of project components, including reviewing and approving annual work plans and budgets, providing technical inputs, and leading capacity-strengthening programs. Day-to-day project management will involve monitoring and evaluating project activities, ensuring regular communication with partners, and developing annual work plans and budgets. The Project Manager will also oversee procurement and expenditure, organize critical project workshops, and maintain a project risk register. Staff management is a key responsibility, including supervising GCU staff and preparing terms of reference for recruiting consultants. Reporting duties include aggregating information for progress reports, overseeing financial reporting, and preparing a Project Close Report. Quality assurance for project activities and stakeholder engagement are also essential components of this role, ensuring that gender and social inclusion considerations are integrated throughout project implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 10 years of technical working experience, including a minimum of five years in project management. A Bachelor's Degree is required, with a post-graduate degree in a relevant field preferred. Experience working with Indigenous peoples and local community organizations is essential, demonstrating a track record of culturally sensitive collaboration. Candidates should have experience with multilateral agreements related to biodiversity and Indigenous rights, as well as technical and financial reporting to donor agencies. The ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects across different countries and cultures is crucial, along with knowledge of conservation practices and standards. Fluency in English is mandatory, with advanced proficiency in Spanish, French, or Portuguese highly preferred.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's Degree is required for this position, with a preference for candidates holding a post-graduate degree in a relevant field. The educational background should align with the technical requirements of the project, emphasizing conservation, environmental science, or related disciplines that support the objectives of the Heart of Conservation Initiative.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 10 years of technical working experience, including at least five years specifically in project management roles. This experience should include working in solidarity with Indigenous peoples and local community organizations, showcasing a commitment to community-centered collaboration. Familiarity with the Convention on Biological Diversity and experience managing large, complex projects across multiple countries are also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Additionally, advanced proficiency in Spanish, French, or Portuguese is highly preferred, as these languages may facilitate better communication with diverse stakeholders and partners involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The position will be based in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, but may also be available in Brazil or Kenya. Applicants for positions in Brazil or Kenya must be nationals legally authorized to work in those countries, as employment visa sponsorship and relocation are not provided. For candidates applying to work in Cambodia, nationals from South and Southeast Asian countries willing to relocate may also apply, with potential support for visa sponsorship and relocation costs based on budget availability. It is important to note that applicants must be legally authorized to work in the job's location, and the position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship. WWF promotes equal employment opportunities for all qualified individuals, regardless of age, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.