South Africa boasts an exceptionally rich biodiversity. SANBI, a public entity operating in nine different centres, is the only institution in the world mandated with the study, conservation and promotion of an entire country’s fauna, flora and their ecosystems.

The successful candidate will undertake the necessary activities to achieve the vision and goals of the Cape Action for People and the Environment (C.A.P.E.) Programme, a multi-faceted and multi-stakeholder
bioregional programme with over 24 key partner institutions
and a core budget of over US$10 million.

Appointment requires an appropriate postgraduate qualification in Natural, Social or Management Sciences, enhanced by at least
5 – 10 years’ complex programme management and leadership experience in the environmental sector, which must include experience of facilitating effective relationships with a range of stakeholders, including
the three spheres of government, the private sector and civil society. The position requires an understanding of mainstreaming biodiversity
into production sectors and the challenges of trade-offs between biodiversity and development, as well as extensive knowledge and experience of Biodiversity/Bioregional programmes in South Africa, with specific reference to the Fynbos biome.

Understanding of linkages between biodiversity management and development is essential.
Key performance areas will entail: • providing strategic leadership on various technical aspects of the programme • managing programme processes, deliverables, finances, procurement and contracting service providers • developing and implementing a fundraising strategy • managing donor funds and relations, as well as reporting • ensuring sound financial management • ensuring co-ordination of activities through effective governance structures • effectively managing relationships with a diverse range of partners and stakeholders
• appointing and supervising staff within the C.A.P.E. Co-ordination Unit in accordance with SANBI’s transformation and EE objectives • assisting in the development, as well as supporting the alignment and co-operation of SANBI’s bioregional programmes and associated policies.

To this end, you will need to adopt a programmatic approach to conservation
as well as the development environment in the South African context. Experience of working in the public, civil and/or private sectors, including fundraising challenges and opportunities, both locally and internationally, enhanced by analytical and conceptual abilities, will complete the profile of the ideal candidate.

The appointee must be willing and able to travel extensively, both locally and sometimes internationally. A valid unendorsed Code B driver’s licence is therefore compulsory. Proven proficiency in MS Office, as well as ability to maintain sound interpersonal relations and communicate effectively (in writing and speaking) in English and one other official language, is essential.

SANBI offers an all-inclusive annual salary of R540 429.
Please Note: 1) Applications must be accompanied by a letter motivating why the applicant should be favourably considered for the position and confirming that the minimum qualifications are met. 2) A competency test will be conducted as part of the selection process.

All applications will be considered with the understanding that, in terms of the SANBI Employment Equity Plan, preference will currently be given to candidates from the designated groups.

Applications submitted by employment agencies will not be considered.
SANBI reserves the right not to fill this position.

Contact Ms Jessica Sims on 011 804 0635 or, preferably, forward
a concise CV via e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or fax 086 635 9931. Postal applications are to be addressed to Ms Jessica Sims, LR Strategic Placement, P.O. Box 98, The Woodlands 2080.

Closing Date: 20 February 2008 at 16:00

Candidates are expected to be available
for selection interviews on a date and time
as determined by SANBI.