Job Title: Executive Director

Organization: Kenya Wildlife Trust

Location: Based in Nairobi with frequent travel

About Us

The Kenya Wildlife Trust (KWT) is a not-for-profit conservation organisation dedicated to protecting vulnerable predator populations, empowering local communities, and educating stakeholders about conservation and environmental stewardship. Our focus on Kenya offers us a profile with national policy decision-makers, unique knowledge of the country’s wildlife areas and local communities, and a clear understanding of the local and wider economy actors that have a stake in healthy ecosystems. Our work is based on three key pillars: Predators, People, and Partnerships. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our operations and programmes, and we are always looking for new ways to reduce our environmental impact.

Position Summary

The Executive Director will provide visionary leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight for Kenya Wildlife Trust. They will be responsible for the organization’s overall success, including fundraising, program management, staff leadership, and stakeholder engagement. The Executive Director will report to the Board of Trustees and work closely with key partners locally and internationally to advance the Trust’s conservation efforts in Kenya.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and execution of a strategic plan that addresses conservation issues and ensures program alignment with the organization’s mission.
• Diversify funding sources and build and maintain donor relationships to ensure sustainable financial support for the organization’s programs.
• Oversee the organization’s programmes and projects, ensuring that they are aligned with the organization’s mission and goals, and are implemented effectively and efficiently.
• Manage the budget, ensure financial transparency, and collaborate with the finance manager to maintain sound financial management practices.
• Build and maintain relationships with donors, partners, and stakeholders, including developing partnerships and representing the organization at events, in articles, and in interviews.
• Build and lead a high-performing team, providing mentorship and promoting collaboration.
• Ensure that the organization’s operations and programmes are aligned with its commitment to sustainability.

Qualifications:

• Postgraduate degree in conservation biology, environmental science, or a related field.
• At least 10 years of experience in wildlife conservation or a related field, with a proven track record of leadership and management.
• Strong strategic planning, financial management, and organizational development skills.
• Proven success in fundraising and resource mobilization, including grant writing and donor cultivation.
• Strong knowledge of the challenges facing wildlife conservation in Kenya, as well as a proven track record of success in addressing these challenges.
• Excellent team management, interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Strong commitment to social justice and demonstrated ability to work effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Experience in managing budgets and financial resources.
• Commitment to sustainability.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, gratuity, and pension.
• Opportunity to work with a passionate and dedicated team of conservation professionals.
• Chance to make a real difference in the protection of Kenya’s wildlife and ecosystems.

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their CVs, a cover letter explaining their qualifications and interest in the position, and three professional references to consulting@huresco.net.

Please include “Executive Director ” in the subject line. The deadline for applications is 15th November 2023.

Applications from exceptional candidates who lack some of the qualifications but have transferable skills that would be valuable in the role will be considered.

Kenya Wildlife Trust is an equal-opportunity employer and welcomes applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds.