Resource Protection Manager

Resource Protection Manager

Zambia

 Start Date

23 November 2026        

1 year fixed-term contract

• →Lead monthly, quarterly and annual operational work plans across all GMAs, aligned with Panthera's strategic priorities.
• →Prepare high-quality reports tracking performance against agreed targets and indicators, using patrol data to support evidence-based management decisions.
• →Develop, manage and monitor operational budgets; identifying cost efficiencies without compromising operational effectiveness or staff safety.
• →Lead operational risk management, including incident investigation and documentation, safety and security training and emergency response readiness.
• →Maintain a live risk register and convene regular operational reviews of threats, incidents, partner performance, safeguards, logistics, expenditure, corrective actions, escalating risks to the Zambia Country Director.

• Line manages Panthera’s patrol team lead(s) and site analyst(s), including goal-setting, performance reviews and professional development.
• Oversee fleet, workshop and maintenance operations, with preventive maintenance schedules that minimise downtime.
• Manage procurement, stores, logistics and inventory systems, with asset registers, condition assessments and replacement planning.
• Lead planning, delivery and maintenance of GMA resource protection infrastructure to time, budget and quality standards.
• Ensure field bases maintain fit-for-purpose communications, access control, emergency and evacuation procedures, medical arrangements, incident-command protocols and operational-security standards.
• Coordinate fire management across the GMAs, including prevention, response, firebreak maintenance and monitoring. 
• Coordinate road maintenance across the GMAs

• Maintain productive working relationships with key stakeholders, including DNPW, Community Resource Boards, traditional authorities, NGOs and conservation partners.
• Document operational roles, decision rights and escalation routes between key stakeholders so that responsibility is matched by appropriate authority and misunderstandings over command are avoided.
• Represent Panthera in internal and external forums and support collaborative, landscape-scale conservation approaches across the Greater Kafue Ecosystem.
• Work with Panthera's community engagement team to integrate resource protection with alternative livelihoods, wildlife value programmes and community-led conservation.

• Set the standards for excellence, teamwork, integrity through personal example.
• Mentor and coach high-potential staff, supporting succession planning.
• Contribute technical input to fundraising proposals and other strategic initiatives.
• Maintain accurate records, databases, plans, contracts, permits and operational documentation.
• Ensure compliance with Panthera policies, procedures, financial controls and reporting requirements.

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in natural resource management, conservation, operations management or related relevant field.
• At least 10 years' experience in field operations and protected area management in demanding environments, including at least five years’ experience managing counter-poaching teams.
• Significant leadership experience with proven team-building and mentoring ability.
• Strong interpersonal, communication and stakeholder engagement skills and ability to act as a credible representative of Panthera at all levels.
• Experience in planning, procurement, stock control, logistics, systems improvement and budget management.
• Good working knowledge of practical risk management in remote or field-based settings.
• Exceptional organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines and maintain rigorous operational records.
• Proficient in computer applications, with the ability to maintain asset, inventory, maintenance, and operational databases and produce high-quality reports.
• Valid driver's licence and 4x4 driving experience.
• Fluency in written and spoken English.
• Willingness to live in a remote, rural area.
• Resilience, practicality and dedication to operational excellence.

Applications close 6 November 2026. Please apply by visiting Panthera’s Career Page. Applicants must submit a CV and cover letter.  CVs must include three professional referees and their contact details.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.