North Luangwa Conservation Programme – Landscape Coordinator Frankfurt Zoological Society Zambia

About Frankfurt Zoological Society (FZS)

Frankfurt Zoological Society is an international nature conservation organisation based in Frankfurt, Germany that coordinates projects in 18 countries. We envision a world where wildlife and wild lands are cherished and sustainably protected for their intrinsic and economic value to present and future generations. Our mission is to conserve wildlife and ecosystems, focusing on protected areas and outstanding wild places. More than 1,600 colleagues work for FZS conservation projects worldwide. Our goal is the preservation of wildlife and wilderness. Together, we protect biodiversity, the basis of human life. Our partners in the projects on site are local communities, nature conservation authorities, national park administrations and other NGOs. To learn more about us, visit www.fzs.org.

About the Project:

FZS Zambia (FZS-ZM) has a rich history of conservation, having been actively involved in the preservation of the North Luangwa Ecosystem since 1986 and the Nsumbu-Tanganyika region since 2017. Our mission at FZS-ZM is to bridge the connection between livelihoods and landscapes through conservation and enhancement efforts. We are dedicated to the continuous expansion of our initiatives, broadening both our geographical reach and thematic focus. These endeavours are made possible through FZS core funding, international government partners, and the contributions of private donors.

Purpose of the Job

North Luangwa Conservation Programme has an opportunity for a Landscape Coordinator to oversee the operational implementation of the North Luangwa Landscape Integration Unit activities, inclusive of governance and stakeholder arrangements, alternative livelihoods (Fisheries, Conservation Agriculture / Community Gardening, CoCoBa, Beekeeping, wildlife value chains, etc), human-wildlife conflict Coexistence operations, land use planning and management, data management and staff coordination. The implementation focus will be mainly Nabwalya, Lundu and Mukungule Chiefdoms.

The programmes for Nabwalya, Lundu and Mukungule, coordinated through the Landscape Coordinator, should deliver meaningful results based on participatory approaches including local communities, DNPW, local government, other line ministries and landscape partners. This should enable adaptive management and feedback, through an improved understanding of local and landscape ecosystem functions, associated livelihoods and stakeholder arrangements.

Key Responsibilities:

KPA 1. Strategic Stakeholder Engagement

• Identify, formalise, strengthen and monitor strategic and operational partnership arrangements in support of the operational objectives
• Oversee the development and dissemination of appropriate LIU communication messages, products, and timeous feedback to different target audiences, including through summits, learning exchanges, and communication.
• Coordinate the strengthening of governance of Community Resources Boards (CRBs), Community Forestry Management Groups (CFMGs), Fishery Management Committees (FMCs), Village Action Groups (VAGs) and Community Conservation Banks (CoCoBa) groups in the chiefdoms.

KPA 2. Landscape Technical programme coordination and implementation

• Support to develop and oversee the operational landscape strategy and implementation programme for Nabwalya, Lundu and Mukungule Chiefdoms, which will include the following elements:
• Oversee, with line function, the development and implementation of the Stakeholder engagement plan
• Oversee with line function the mapping and implementation of natural resource management programmes
• Oversee with line function the land use planning and management, including the review, development and implementation of General Management Plans (GMPs), village land use plans and certificates
• Guide the development and implementation of community-led livelihood strategies
• Guide strategic resource mobilisation opportunities, and provide strategic guidance on Chiefdom business plans benefit-sharing arrangements
• Conduct workshops and awareness meetings on LIU activities
• Collaborate with other players in the landscape to maximise impact

KPA 3. Monitoring evaluation and research

• In consultation with the MERL Senior Advisor, conduct operational monitoring surveys, including guiding field staff in the data collection and monitoring
• Coordinate the LIU operational programme and monitor databases, ensuring data is clean, accurate, and securely stored
• Communicate results to partners, donors, local stakeholders and the public through posters, presentations, reports, scientific publications, and social media to showcase the LIU activities of Nabwalya, Lundu and Mukungule where relevant NLCP landscape and highlight the achievements of the NLCP

KPA 4. Administration, Finance and Reporting

i. Administration

• Ensure that the organisational structure of the NLCP is adhered to and develop any workplans, reports, SOPs, and policies required by the department together with programme management
• Contribute to the development of the overall strategic plan for the LIU activities and translate it into annual operational work plan with associated budget, responsibility and KPAs

ii. Finance procedures

• Manage and coordinate imprest requests, expense claims, and retirements for funds needed for LIU activities in a timely manner and according to finance SOPs and policies.

iii. Procurement and asset management

• Coordinate procurement of LIU equipment and supplies, maintain inventories, and ensure proper use and care of all equipment.

iv. Donor reporting

• Provide input into the development of project proposals and reports for donor funding

v. Risk management and employee health and safety

• Implement relevant action plans, procedures, and training to mitigate environmental, social, labour, and employee health and safety risks related to LIU activities.
• Raise and propose solutions, for any new issues or risks that arise within the department

General FZS-related duties

We expect the person holding the position to carry out the described job responsibilities in an environmentally aware and socially responsible manner. We aim to ensure all resources are utilised effectively and efficiently. You will be expected to apply ‘sound value for money’ principles in undertaking the purchase or supply of goods and services and follow the rules set by the FZS policies. The person holding the position ensures that:

• They are aware of and adhere to the FZS and NLCP vision, mission, goals, strategy, and values.
• All set FZS and NLCP operational procedures, policies and regulations are applied
• FZS is upheld as a recognised entity with a positive reputation as a conservation partner within both the project area and country
• Annual FZS and donor budgets are adhered to, following FZS and donor financial management policy and procedures for proper and transparent use of project funds
• Difficulties, delays or “bad news” within the project implementation are reported to line managers without delay
• Partnerships are maintained or even enhanced and are productive as appropriate for project management
• Key programme visits are properly organised and hosted
• Project results and lessons learned are disseminated
• Take initiative to make improvements

Qualifications, skills and attributes

• A University degree in Ecology, Wildlife Management, Natural Resources Management, or any related subject
• Master of Science degree in a relevant field such as Community Development, Project Management, or natural resource management will be an added advantage
• Minimum 5 year’s field work experience with 2 year’s mid-management experience.
• Must possess fair knowledge and workings of CBNRM, principles of good governance, and general wildlife and natural resources management in Zambia
• Clear understanding of existing natural resources and wildlife policies; legal frameworks and legislation; and clear understanding of existing challenges with the ability to find alternative options to better the systems
• Experience working in a rural setting and with community structures
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment, including in a leadership role, as well as the ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Comfortable and capable of conducting strenuous work in remote and rugged field environments
• Good written and spoken English communication skills
• Ability to prepare compelling and accurate data presentations (charts, diagrams, etc)
• Proficiency in MS Office (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.)
• Proficiency in desktop and mobile applications
• Experience driving a manual vehicle with a valid licence
• Experience driving a motorbike with a valid licence will be an added advantage

Able to communicate in Bemba and Nyanja
Working Conditions/Physical Effort

• Willingness to travel and work flexible hours
• Willingness to camp in the field during ecological monitoring surveys
• Willingness to work in rural areas with local communities and government partners
• Ability to work under stress during peak workload periods

We Offer:

• Engaging and meaningful work with room for your own ideas
• Opportunity to contribute towards the protection of impressive landscapes in Zambia
• Form part of a dynamic and motivated team, as well as the larger FZS team working to secure outstanding wild places across the globe
• Flat hierarchy, opportunities for further training

The position will be based in Mpika, Zambia.