Biodiversity and Business Unit Manager- Midrand

Purpose of Job

The Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) is seeking a dynamic, passionate, and confident leader to drive the strategic development and daily operations of the Biodiversity and Business Unit (BBU). The successful candidate will be responsible for setting the strategic direction, managing operations, and leading project development within the BBU. Main responsibilities include but not limited to updating and implementing the existing strategy, expanding EWTs Biodiversity Disclosure Project offerings, representing the organization at industry events, fostering partnerships, and securing funding for the BBU. While knowledge of financial accounting, sustainable finance, or policy negotiation at a national level is advantageous, it is not a strict requirement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic development of the BBU, including the design and implementation of a five-year strategy.
• Strengthen relationships with businesses to improve biodiversity impact disclosure and enhance corporate sustainability ratings.
• Promote and develop the EWTs Biodiversity Disclosure Project toolkit, particularly the Biological Diversity Protocol, and conduct annual biodiversity performance assessments of listed companies.
• Collaborate with existing and new BBU members to implement long-term strategies that reduce business biodiversity impacts and better manage biodiversity dependencies through the BDP toolkit.
• Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with international and national organizations, corporations, and government entities in the business and biodiversity sector.
• Ensure the sustainable growth of the BBU through effective leadership and resource management.
• Develop and execute a comprehensive BBU communications plan.
• Provide expert strategic guidance to the EWT on biodiversity and business-related matters.
• Represent the EWT in biodiversity and business forums through presentations and thought leadership.
• Develop and manage the BBU budget in alignment with EWT policies and financial procedures.
• Lead EWTs initiatives in Green Economy development and green business practices.
• Oversight of team goals, tasks, workflow and resource allocation
• Provide support, guidance and facilitate professional development for team

Minimum Qualifications, Experience, and Competencies:

• A minimum of an Honours Degree in a relevant field such as natural sciences, business management, environmental management, or economics.
• At least three years of management experience, including time management, budgeting, process flows, and monitoring and evaluation.
• Proven experience in the private sector, government, or environmental sectors.
• Strong communication skills with fluency in written and spoken English.
• Demonstrated experience in team management and leadership.
• Knowledge of public relations and communication strategies.
• Understanding of the relationship between biodiversity and business, including reporting requirements, standards, and impact measurement metrics.
• Familiarity with relevant legal and policy frameworks at local and international levels.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain effective partnerships.
• Basic logistical and operational skills.
• Self-motivated, independent, and proactive in achieving objectives.
• Experience in facilitating meetings and workshops (both online and in person).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and online communication tools.
• GIS skills are beneficial but not essential.

Interpersonal Skills:

• Highly disciplined, self-motivated, and innovative.
• Fluent in English with strong verbal and written communication abilities.
• Highly organized and detail oriented.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.
• Strong interpersonal and people management skills with an approachable personality.
• Business acumen and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Energetic, motivated, and results driven.

The ideal candidate will embody EWTs core values of passion, integrity, and innovation.
This position offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on the intersection of biodiversity and business, driving sustainable practices and influencing key stakeholders. If you are passionate about environmental sustainability and possess the leadership skills to drive change, we encourage you to apply.

Applicants are requested to submit a CV and a detailed cover letter motivation as to how and why they would be the best possible candidate for this position. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 20 days of the closing date. The EWT reserves the right not to make an appointment. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Closing date: 15 February 2025. To apply please e-mail your CV and a detailed motivation letter to https://ewt.docuware.cloud/DocuWare/Forms/hr-application-for-advertised-position?orgID=4f244318-4302-4cae-ace3-3fefaf4f712e