Conservation Centre Manager

About the Organization

Elsamere Lodge and Conservation Centre is a conservation-focused institution dedicated to protecting biodiversity, promoting environmental education, and supporting sustainable tourism. The Centre combines conservation, heritage preservation, research support, and visitor engagement within a unique natural setting.

We are seeking a dynamic, experienced, and environmentally passionate professional to lead the Centre and strengthen its conservation impact.

Position Summary

The Conservation Centre Manager will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight of the Conservation Centre. The role is responsible for conservation programming, research coordination, education initiatives, partnerships, and visitor experience while ensuring alignment with sustainability principles and organizational goals.

Key Responsibilities

1. Conservation & Environmental Management

Implement and monitor conservation and habitat management plans

Support biodiversity monitoring, ecological restoration, and research initiatives

Lead terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem research, monitoring, and reporting activities

Ensure compliance with environmental laws, conservation policies, and ethical standards

Maintain partnerships with conservation agencies, research institutions, and stakeholders

2. Education, Training & Curriculum Development

Integrate environmental conservation themes into existing education curricula and learning programs

Design and implement outdoor environmental education and experiential learning initiatives

Develop environmental education curricula, interpretation materials, and training manuals

Deliver sustainability training programs for staff, students, partners, and community groups

Support schools, universities, and visiting groups with structured conservation learning programs

3. Partnerships, Conferences & Resource Mobilization

Develop funding proposals aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Organize conservation conferences, workshops, and stakeholder forums

Build partnerships with NGOs, universities, donors, and conservation networks

Represent the Centre in conservation forums and professional platforms

4. Operations & Administration

Oversee day-to-day operations of the conservation Centre and facilities

Manage budgets, procurement, and operational planning

Ensure proper maintenance of infrastructure, trails, and equipment

Implement safety, security, and emergency preparedness procedures

5. Visitor Experience & Community Engagement

Ensure visitor experiences reflect conservation values and professionalism

Promote responsible tourism and sustainability awareness

Strengthen community partnerships and conservation outreach programs

Support local environmental awareness and livelihood initiatives

6. Staff Leadership & Management

Supervise conservation staff, guides, educators, and support teams

Coordinate staff training, performance management, and professional development

Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and environmental stewardship

Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, Wildlife Management, Tourism, Education, or related field (Master’s degree is an added advantage)

Minimum 5 years’ relevant experience in conservation management, eco-tourism, research coordination, or environmental education

Proven leadership and team management experience

Experience in proposal writing, partnerships, or donor engagement is desirable

Strong knowledge of environmental regulations and conservation frameworks in Kenya

Core Competencies

Strong leadership and organizational skills

Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement ability

Financial and operational management competence

Strong research coordination and reporting skills

Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement ability

Financial and operational management competence

Strong research coordination and reporting skills

Commitment to sustainability and conservation ethics

Reporting Line

Reports to: Director / Board / General Manager

Supervises: Conservation staff, education officers, guides, and support teams

Contract & Duty Station

Duty Station: Conservation Centre premises, Naivasha

Contract Type: Full-time

Remuneration: Competitive and commensurate with experience

Application Procedure

Interested candidates should submit:

Cover letter detailing suitability for the role

Updated CV with at least three referees

Copies of academic and professional certificates

Applications should be sent to: david@elsamere.com

Deadline: 10th /03/2026.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted