The OrganizationPanthera, founded in 2006, is devoted exclusively to the conservation of wild cats and their ecosystems. Utilizing the expertise of the world’s premier cat biologists, Panthera develops and implements global conservation strategies for the most imperiled large cats – tigers, lions, jaguars, snow leopards, cheetahs, pumas and leopards. Representing the most comprehensive effort of its kind, Panthera works in partnership with local and international NGOs, scientific institutions, local communities and governments around the globe. For more on Panthera, visit www.panthera.org.

We are seeking a dedicated individual to fulfil the role of a Project Coordinator and Relationship Manager for the Arabian Leopard Initiative, a joint venture between Panthera and the Royal Commission for AlUla, funded by the latter. The position will entail leading Panthera’s efforts to conserve and lead reintroduction efforts for the Critically Endangered Arabian leopard in Saudi Arabia. The candidate will be required to provide oversight to a field team and coordinate operational, research and logistic activities. The candidate will primarily be responsible for leading efforts to prepare sites for leopard reintroduction, including engaging with local communities, developing and implementing human-wildlife conflict mitigation measures, monitoring prey populations, and identifying and mitigating other threats in and around potential release sites. The position will be based in Cape Town, South Africa, but will require frequent and extended travel to Saudi Arabia to oversee field operations and liaise with partners.
Job Description

• In coordination with the Panthera Leopard Director and the General Manager of Panthera Arabia for Environmental Services (a Panthera entity in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), develop and implement a strategy for Panthera’s project activities in Saudi Arabia in line with the National Action Plan for Arabian leopards in Saudi Arabia. 
• Coordinate activities of a field team comprising of biologists, social scientists and other experts
• Manage the day-to-day activities of all project personnel in Saudi Arabia and southern Africa.
• Maintain strong relationships with partner organizations
• Develop and manage project budgets.
• Build working relationships with local governments and other strategic partners in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.
• Work with governments and other strategic partners to develop and implement science-informed conservation policies for leopards and other appropriate species.
• Facilitate relationships with project donors, including the timeous submission of reports.  
• Act as the point of contact between project teams and other departments within Panthera (e.g. Finance and Business Development).
• Encourage and oversee the professional growth of Project personnel and supervise post-graduate students.

Minimum requirements

• Ph.D. degree in nature conservation or a related field.
• Demonstrable fieldwork experience and data management skills.
• Experience in biological monitoring and community engagement  
• Experience of constructive engagement with multiple stakeholders, preferably including government departments.
• Demonstrable ability to produce peer-reviewed scientific publications.
• Ability to lead and manage a culturally diverse team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office software (especially Word and Excel).
• Experience of using R and GIS software.
• Strong written and spoken English skills, preferably including reports to donors and other stakeholders.
• Valid driver's license (4x4 driving experience is an advantage).

 Applications close 16 July 2024.  CVs must include two professional referees and their contact details. If submitting a cover letter, ensure that CV and cover letter are uploaded as one document.  Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The salary package will be dependent on qualifications and experience, and will include a comprehensive medical aid allowance. The candidate should be available to start work in August 2024.