Senior Manager – Conservation Management (Cape Region)

About the role

The Senior Manager will provide strategic leadership for conservation management across the Cape Region, reporting to the Regional General Manager. Based at the Cape Regional Offices in Mount Pleasant, the role oversees biodiversity protection, environmental compliance and protected‑area governance.

Key responsibilities

• Lead integrated conservation operations, including ecosystem, wildlife and invasive‑species management.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, biodiversity, labour, safety and governance legislation.
• Oversee conservation planning, Environmental Management Programmes, EIAs and sustainability initiatives.
• Manage law‑enforcement support, risk management, incident coordination and compliance reporting.
• Develop and lead multidisciplinary teams, handling workforce planning, performance and succession.
• Provide financial oversight, budgeting, expenditure control and adherence to PFMA and supply‑chain requirements.
• Build and maintain relationships with government bodies, NGOs, tourism stakeholders and community structures.
• Negotiate co‑management and contractual agreements and represent SANParks in relevant forums.

Required profile

• NQF Level 7 qualification in Nature Conservation, Environmental Sciences or related field (post‑graduate NQF 8 advantageous).
• 6–8 years experience in Conservation or Protected‑Area Management and at least 8 years senior management experience.
• Valid Code B driver’s licence and physical fitness.
• Experience in fire management; environmental‑inspector or peace‑officer credentials advantageous.

Required skills

• Computer literacy.
• Fire management expertise.