Senior Operations Manager

Senior Operations Manager Jobs in Kafue National Park

Greater Kafue Landscape Limited is seeking a skilled and strategic Senior Operations Manager to join our leadership team at Kafue National Park, Zambia. This role offers an exciting opportunity for professionals looking to contribute to conservation efforts through senior operations management in one of Africa’s most significant protected areas.

About African Parks and the Role

African Parks is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the rehabilitation and long-term management of protected areas in partnership with governments, local communities, and stakeholders. Managing 24 national parks across 13 African countries, including key landscapes in Zambia, African Parks is committed to preserving biodiversity and supporting sustainable conservation.

The Senior Operations Manager will report directly to the Park Manager and lead the Conservation and Operations function. This fixed-term, full-time position is based within Kafue National Park, Mumbwa, and involves overseeing operational planning, infrastructure development, fleet and logistics management, law enforcement support, and other critical operational programs.

Key Responsibilities of Senior Operations Manager Jobs in Kafue National Park

• Develop, implement, monitor, and review the Conservation and Operations work plan and budget aligned with the Park Strategy and Five-Year Business Plan.
• Ensure the Conservation and Operations team is adequately resourced with personnel, equipment, finances, and operational support.
• Oversee infrastructure projects, ensuring effective planning, maintenance, budget management, and cost control.
• Manage procurement processes, including tenders, contractor oversight, and contract administration in compliance with policies.
• Supervise the Park’s fleet of vehicles, aircraft, boats, and other assets, ensuring all licensing, permits, maintenance, and servicing are up to date.
• Promote a strong culture of health, safety, and risk management across all operational activities.
• Coordinate logistics, procurement, warehousing, and inventory management for cost-effective operations.
• Support law enforcement readiness by providing logistical support, equipment, and operational resources, and collaborate on training programmes.
• Assist wildlife translocation and other conservation initiatives as needed.
• Coordinate operational support for research partners, visiting scientists, and approved stakeholders.
• Lead the Park’s fire management strategy, ensuring staff training, equipment maintenance, and operational readiness.
• Foster a high-performing, values-driven team culture emphasizing accountability, collaboration, integrity, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with African Parks policies, procedures, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Prepare and submit operational reports and performance updates to the Park Manager on schedule.
• Act on behalf of the Park Manager during absences or as delegated.
• Provide leadership to a team of eight managers, ensuring efficient delivery of organizational objectives.

Qualifications and Experience Required

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Conservation Management, Wildlife Management, Natural Resource Management, Project Management, Operations Management, or a related field. Equivalent practical experience is also considered.
• At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience, ideally in protected area management, conservation operations, or large-scale project management.
• Proven experience in conservation law enforcement, including operational planning, security management, and personnel development.
• Experience within conservation NGOs, public sector, or related organisations is an advantage.
• Ability to work effectively in remote, rural, and multicultural environments.
• Excellent written and spoken English, with strong report writing and presentation skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to engage effectively across all organizational levels.
• Sound financial management capabilities, including budgeting, cost control, and resource planning.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple complex projects and multidisciplinary teams simultaneously.
• Effective stakeholder management, including engagement with government agencies, local communities, tourism operators, and development partners.
• Ability to perform under pressure in dynamic and challenging environments.
• Good physical fitness and willingness to work in remote field conditions.
• High integrity, professionalism, self-discipline, and sound judgment.
• Strong leadership skills with a collaborative approach and commitment to staff development.
• Excellent decision-making and tactical judgment in complex operational situations.

What This Senior Operations Manager Job in Kafue National Park Offers

This position provides a unique opportunity to play a pivotal leadership role within one of Africa’s foremost conservation organisations. The successful candidate will contribute directly to the management and protection of one of the continent’s largest and most biodiverse protected areas.

How to Apply

Interested candidates who meet the qualifications and experience outlined above are invited to apply via the following link:

https://africanparks.simplify.hr/vacancy/3an9tz

Please submit the following documents along with your application:

• Cover letter
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Certified copies of academic and professional qualifications
• Copy of National Registration Card (NRC) or Passport
• Contact details of at least three professional referees

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Equal Opportunity Statement

African Parks is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and organisational needs without discrimination on any protected grounds. We encourage applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Job Details