Area Manager - Wildlife Reserve - Victoria Falls

Duties and Responsibilities

1. Conservation Management
- Supervise and support the counter-poaching team of 10 staff to ensure effective protection of wildlife and enforcement of anti-poaching protocols.
- Develop and implement conservation strategies to maintain ecological balance and biodiversity.
- Oversee the maintenance of infrastructure such as roads, boreholes, and fences to support conservation efforts.
- Monitor and address human-wildlife conflict issues in collaboration with local authorities and stakeholders.
- Manage and maintain reserve equipment and vehicles to ensure operational readiness for conservation activities.

2. Community Engagement
- Foster strong relationships with the local community, promoting participation in conservation and sustainable tourism initiatives.
- Lead and manage community development projects, such as education, skills training, and employment programs.
- Act as a liaison between the reserve and local leaders, ensuring open communication and alignment of goals.
- Promote awareness and education on conservation and wildlife protection within the community.

3. Tourism and Camp Operations
- Oversee the management of the tented camp, ensuring high standards of hospitality and service delivery through the camp keepers.
- Collaborate with tourism partners to enhance visitor experiences while adhering to sustainability principles.
- Ensure compliance with tourism regulations and promote activities that support the reserve's ecological and cultural integrity.
- Develop marketing strategies to attract eco-tourists and improve revenue generation.

4. Operational Management
- Develop and oversee budgets for all reserve activities, ensuring financial sustainability.
- Recruit, train, and manage staff, fostering a positive and efficient working environment.
- Plan and execute building projects, infrastructure development, and general maintenance activities.
- Monitor and report on reserve operations, providing regular updates to senior management and stakeholders.

5. Compliance and Risk Management
- Ensure all activities comply with local laws, regulations, and best practices in conservation and tourism.
- Develop and implement safety protocols, particularly in high-risk activities like counter-poaching and wildlife interactions.
- Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies for operational, environmental, and financial challenges.