Conservation Centre Manager

About the Organization

Elsa Conservation Centre (ECC) is a leader in conservation education and sustainability. ECC is dedicated to protecting biodiversity, promoting environmental awareness, and supporting sustainable tourism. The Centre integrates conservation efforts, heritage preservation, research facilitation, and visitor engagement in a distinctive natural environment. ECC educates school children on environmental stewardship and conservation, offering educational programs throughout East Africa. Our campus, located along Moi South Lake and bordering Lake Naivasha, hosts both local and international schools, as well as teachers from across the world.

ECC is seeking to recruit a team leader to work alongside committed staff, advancing our mission. We are looking for a dynamic, experienced professional with a passion for the environment to lead the Centre and amplify its conservation impact.

Position Summary

The Conservation Centre Manager will provide strategic direction and oversee daily operations at the Centre. The manager will be responsible for conservation programming, research coordination, education initiatives, partnerships, and visitor experience in alignment with sustainability and organizational objectives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Conservation & Environmental Management

·        Implement and monitor conservation and habitat management plans.

·        Support biodiversity monitoring, ecological restoration, and research projects.

·        Lead research, monitoring, and reporting activities for terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

·        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 educational curricula/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.

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

3. Partnerships, Conferences & Resource Mobilization

·        Develop funding proposals aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

·        Organize conservation conferences, workshops, and stakeholder forums.

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

·        Represent the Centre at conservation forums and professional platforms.

4. Operations & Administration

·        Oversee daily operations of the Conservation Centre and its 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 a related field
• Master’s degree plus or other conservation training will be an advantage
• Minimum five years of 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 abilities.
• Competence in financial and operational management.
• Skilled in research coordination and reporting.
• Commitment to sustainability and conservation ethics.

Application Procedure

Interested candidates should submit the following:

• Cover letter detailing suitability for the role
• Updated CV with at least three referees
• Copies of academic and professional certificates

Deadline: 16th March 2026.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.