Senior Operations Manager

Senior Operations Manager Jobs in Kafue National Park African Parks is seeking a strategic and experienced Senior Operations Manager to join the leadership team at Kafue National Park, Mumbwa. This role offers a unique opportunity for professionals passionate about conservation to lead operational functions that support one of Africa’s most significant protected areas.

The Senior Operations Manager will play a critical role in ensuring that all operational systems and resources effectively contribute to the Park’s conservation objectives. About Kafue National Park and African Parks African Parks is a non-profit conservation organisation dedicated to rehabilitating and managing protected areas in partnership with governments, local communities, and stakeholders.

Currently managing 24 national parks across 13 African countries, African Parks oversees more than 20 million hectares of diverse biodiversity, including Kafue National Park in Zambia.

Role Overview:

Senior Operations Manager in Kafue National Park Reporting directly to the Park Manager, the Senior Operations Manager will lead the Conservation and Operations division, overseeing operational planning, infrastructure development, fleet and logistics management, procurement, and law enforcement support.

This fixed-term contract position requires a hands-on leader who ensures that all operational activities align with the Park’s strategic goals and business plans. Key Responsibilities Develop, implement, monitor, and review the Conservation and Operations work plan and budget in line with the Park Strategy and Five-Year Business Plan.

Ensure the team is adequately resourced with personnel, equipment, and finances to deliver operational objectives. Oversee infrastructure projects, ensuring effective budget management and cost control.

Manage procurement processes, including tenders, contractor oversight, and contract administration. Supervise the Park’s fleet of vehicles, aircraft, boats, and other assets, ensuring compliance with licensing and maintenance schedules.

Promote a strong culture of health, safety, and risk management across all operations. Coordinate logistics, warehousing, and inventory management to optimize operational efficiency.

Support law enforcement readiness by providing logistical and equipment support and coordinating training programs. Assist in wildlife translocation and other conservation initiatives as required.

Facilitate operational support for research partners, visiting scientists, and approved stakeholders. Lead the Park’s fire management strategy to maintain operational preparedness and staff training.

Foster a values-driven, high-performing team culture emphasizing accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Ensure compliance with African Parks’ policies, procedures, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Prepare accurate operational reports and updates for the Park Manager in a timely manner. Act on behalf of the Park Manager during absences or as delegated.

Provide leadership and management to a team of eight managers overseeing operational functions. Qualifications and Experience Required Tertiary qualification in Conservation Management, Wildlife Management, Natural Resource Management, Project or Operations Management, or a related field.

Equivalent practical experience will be considered. At least 10 years of progressively responsible experience, ideally within protected area management, conservation operations, or large-scale project management.

Proven expertise in conservation law enforcement, including operational planning and personnel development. Experience working in conservation NGOs, public sector, or similar organisations is advantageous.

Demonstrated ability to operate effectively in remote, rural, and multicultural environments. Excellent command of written and spoken English, with strong reporting and presentation skills.

Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage at all organisational levels. Sound financial management capabilities, including budgeting and resource planning.

Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects and multidisciplinary teams simultaneously. Effective stakeholder management, engaging government, local communities, tourism operators, and development partners.

Capacity to work under pressure in dynamic and challenging conditions. Good physical fitness and willingness to work in remote field settings.

High integrity, professionalism, self-discipline, and sound judgement. Strong leadership with a collaborative style and commitment to staff development.

Excellent decision-making and tactical judgement in complex operational contexts. What This Opportunity Offers This role provides a remarkable chance to contribute to one of Africa’s foremost conservation organisations.

The Senior Operations Manager will have a pivotal leadership role in managing one of the continent’s largest protected areas, directly impacting conservation success and sustainable management. How to Apply for Senior Operations Manager Jobs in Kafue National Park Candidates who meet the qualifications and experience criteria are encouraged to apply online via the following link: https://africanparks.simplify.hr/vacancy/3an9tz.

Please include the following documents 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 applicants will be contacted.

Equal Opportunity Employer African Parks is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equity in the workplace. Employment decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and organisational needs.

We do not discriminate based on race, colour, ethnic or social origin, nationality, religion, age, disability, sex, gender, marital status, HIV status, or any other legally protected characteristic. We encourage applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Job Category Agriculture