Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve Project Co-ordinator ...

CAPE WEST COAST BIOSPHERE RESERVE
PROJECT CO-ORDINATOR
(24 month employment contract)

The Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve (a section 21 company) wishes to appoint a Project Coordinator responsible for the implementation of the strategic and business plans that have been developed by the company. This project is a partnership between the company and local and provincial authorities and is financed by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund.

The ideal candidate is someone who shares the companies’ vision, and has the ability to establish sound project management processes.

The Project Coordinator will:
· Co-ordinate all components of the Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve (CWCBR).
· Initiate, direct, facilitate and co-ordinate the implementation of projects of the CWCBR
· Provide for the overall technical and financial management of project staff finances, procurement and service providers
· Manage the communication strategy of the CWCBR to facilitate interaction and establish clear communication channels with all stakeholders externally and internally.
· Act as overall representative of the CWCBR and act as secretariat for the project steering committee
· Facilitate social and economic development of local communities through the initiation of projects
· Interact with CAPE task teams across the Fynbos biome
· Identify funding opportunities and secure funding for specific projects
· Develop and manage partnerships, particularly in relation to flagship projects.
· Develop an excellent administration system.

Key qualifications are a relevant degree in Nature or Biodiversity Conservation, Natural Resource or Business Management and at least 3 years of relevant experience in multi-disciplinary project management and grant funding.

Minimum Requirements:
· Relevant post matric qualification
· Knowledge of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve concept and its implementation
· Ability to communicate in at least 2 official languages of the Western Cape Province
· Excellent report-writing skills
· Good interpersonal, communication and negotiating skills
· Ability to function in an integrated cross-cultural environment is essential
· A valid Code B drivers licence
· Good leadership and management skills
· Willingness to travel throughout the Cape Floristic region
· Fully computer literate in MS office and GIS packages

The appointment will be for a 24-month contract period. A competitive remuneration package is offered based on the successful applicant’s qualifications and experience.

This project is financed by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund
The Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund is a joint initiative of Conservation International, the Global Environmental Facility, the Government of Japan, the MacArthur Foundation, and the World Bank. A fundamental goal is to ensure civil society is engaged in biodiversity conservation.

Applications to: The Project Leader, Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve, P O Box 283, Darling, 7435, or email donne@capebiosphere.co.za before 15 July 2006