Description: The Project Coordinator oversees field operations in Matetsi Unit 5 under the guidance of the Field Operations Manager and in coordination with the Zimbabwe Parks Senior Regional Manager. This role is responsible for implementing the Zimbabwe Parks–IFAW Co-Management Agreement, supporting conservation and community engagement efforts in both the protected area and the surrounding buffer communities.
Key areas of responsibility include infrastructure development, logistics, tourism development, community partnerships, conservation activities, and fleet management.
Duties and Responsibilities
Project administration and governance: -Oversee administrative, logistical, and financial operations in collaboration with the Finance & Administration Officer to ensure compliance with IFAW procedures. -Support procurement of in-country goods and services, ensuring adherence to IFAW procurement policies. -Supervise project staff and foster coordination among internal and external stakeholders. -Identify additional technical or operational support needs to ensure effective project planning, implementation, and evaluation. -Collaborate with communications staff to support storytelling and knowledge-sharing related to the project.
Project Implementation: -Lead daily implementation and coordination of project activities to meet timeline, budget, and quality expectations. -Communicate project goals and progress to all stakeholders, ensuring transparency and alignment. -Manage competitive procurement processes, including TOR development and partner selection. -Coordinate inputs from consultants, partners, and government actors to achieve project outcomes. -Build and maintain professional relationships with national agencies and buffer community. -Oversee the transfer and proper use of project assets and documentation. -Perform other duties that may be required by IFAW for the project.
Project monitoring and reporting: -Prepare annual and quarterly work plans and technical progress reports for both IFAW and ZimParks. -Submit monthly updates on key activities, risks, and budget execution. -Monitor and report on performance against planned outputs and outcomes using appropriate tools. -Lead regular risk assessments and propose adaptive measures to the IFAW-ZimParks Steering Committee.
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Qualifications and Experience
-Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent work experience) in natural resource management, conservation, or related field preferred. -Minimum 5 years’ experience managing field-based conservation or community programs. -Strong understanding of conservation and protected area management in Zimbabwe. -Proven track record in planning, budgeting, monitoring, and reporting on multi-stakeholder projects. -Experience in staff supervision, logistics, and multi-level stakeholder coordination. -Familiarity with donor-funded project implementation and reporting (e.g., NGOs, government agencies). -Excellent communication skills in English; proficiency in a local Zimbabwean language preferred. -Ability to work cross-culturally and in remote or challenging field conditions.
At IFAW, we aim to create and foster a workforce that reflects and contributes to the diverse, global community in which we work to improve the lives of both animals and people. We are dedicated to fostering justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion so we actively encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds.
