Job Opportunity - Project Manager, Nsumbu Tanganyika Conservation Programme
Job title: Project Manager
Location based: Nsumbu National Park in northern Zambia
Reports to: Programme Leader
Salary: Competitive based on qualifications and experience
ABOUT THE PROJECT
Frankfurt Zoological Society (FZS) is a global conservation organisation dedicated to protecting biodiversity and wilderness areas through strong partnerships. In Zambia, FZS has partnered with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) for nearly 40 years in North Luangwa and, since 2017, in Nsumbu National Park through the Nsumbu Tanganyika Conservation Programme (NTCP). NTCP focuses on resource protection, ecological monitoring, endangered species recovery, and community engagement in conservation education, governance, livelihoods, and human-wildlife coexistence. With Nsumbu’s ecosystem on the path to recovery, milestones include zero elephant poaching since 2018 and the return of lions in 2024. Looking ahead, NTCP’s renewed five-year strategy aims to restore black rhino, maintain ecological connectivity across the Nsumbu-Mweru landscape, and strengthen community-driven conservation.
ABOUT THE POSITION
NTCP is seeking a Project Manager to join our team in Nsumbu National Park, Northern Zambia. This role offers a unique opportunity to live and work on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, contributing to one of Africa’s most scenic and ecologically significant landscapes.
You’ll be part of a dedicated team driving species restoration, community engagement, and park management.
PURPOSE OF THE JOB
The Project Manager ensures NTCP’s operations run smoothly and align with strategic priorities, donor requirements, and organisational policies. You’ll translate NTCP’s 5-Year Strategy and Theory of Change into operations plans, effective systems, oversee compliance, financial planning, and HR processes, and support innovative conservation initiatives like the planned black rhino reintroduction.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Enablers for Programme Effectiveness
- Implement NTCP’s 5-Year Strategy and ensure alignment
- Build a strong team culture and oversee annual planning and reporting processes
Special Projects
- Lead high-impact projects that advance NTCP’s conservation objectives
- Support species restoration initiatives
Fundraising and Communications
- Strengthen donor engagement through impact reporting and support new grant proposals
- Drive Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning systems to showcase impact
Financial Planning and Compliance
- Lead budgeting and financial forecasting, identifying and closing funding gaps
YOUR PROFILE
- Bachelor’s Degree in an Environmental / Conservation / Business Management / Project Management or relevant field.
- More than 7 years of professional experience, of which at least 4 years must be in a management role
- Good knowledge and understanding of conservation priorities and programmes in the sub-region and in Zambia in particular.
- Demonstrated skills in project planning, proposal writing, financial management, budgeting, reporting, compliance, evaluation and experience working with Donors
- An analytical mind set with great problem-solving abilities
- Strong administrative and organiational skills.
- Excellent communication and digital skills.
- Ability to thrive in a remote, wildlife-rich environment.
WE OFFER
Contract: 2-year renewable.
Salary: Competitive.
Opportunity: Join an ambitious conservation programme and help prepare for black rhino reintroduction within 3 years.
YOUR APPLICATION
If you are passionate and ready to take on this challenge, please submit your Curriculum Vitae and Cover Letter in PDF (max 2 pages) detailing your relevant experience and motivation to join Frankfurt Zoological Society via https://zoologisch.jobs.personio.de/job/2462449?
Application due date is 15th January 2026.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
