Head of Wildlife Operations at Ol Pejeta Conservancy (OPC)

Role Summary 

The Head of Wildlife Operations will oversee all Wildlife Management and security operations at Ol Pejeta  Conservancy (OPC), ensuring the welfare and safety of wildlife, personnel, visitors, and assets. This role  encompasses wildlife protection, management and operational security. The Head will also manage Wildlife  Monitoring ranger units, armed security units, and other wildlife operations staff while fostering collaboration  with external law enforcement and conservation agencies. The position requires a strategic leader capable of  managing complex wildlife operations such as capture, captive care, translocations as well as monitoring and  mitigating threats such as poaching, human-wildlife conflict, and other security challenges. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Wildlife Operations Management: Lead the Manager, Wildlife Operations, to oversee ranger and patrol teams. Develop and implement effective patrolling strategies for rhino monitoring to prevent poaching and other illegal activities. Ensure rangers are well-trained, equipped, and motivated. 
• Oversight of Armed Security Operations: Supervise the Manager, Armed Security, to ensure effective deployment of armed personnel and the use of resources such as K9 units. Oversee the safe handling, storage, and maintenance of firearms and ammunition, ensuring compliance with national and international regulations. 
• Strategic Security Planning: Develop and implement a comprehensive security strategy to protect OPC’s wildlife, staff, and infrastructure. Continuously evaluate and adjust security protocols to address evolving risks and challenges. The role will ensure effective communication, incident reporting, and operational support, including radio communication systems and the maintenance of security-related records. 
• Anti-Poaching and Threat Mitigation: Coordinate proactive anti-poaching initiatives, including intelligence gathering and rapid response operations. Develop partnerships with local law enforcement,  communities, and conservation organisations to address wildlife threats. 
• Human-Wildlife Conflict Resolution: Implement strategies to minimise human-wildlife conflicts in collaboration with community stakeholders. Develop fencing projects, community education programs,  and rapid response teams to address conflict hotspots.
• Resource Management: Ensure optimal utilisation and maintenance of vehicles, surveillance equipment, and security infrastructure. Develop budgets and manage resources to support security and wildlife operations effectively. 
• Coordinate wildlife capture and translocations: Work with the Managers, Research and Ecological  Monitoring, Veterinary Unit to oversee safe capture, handling and movement of animals identified for relocation, captive care or translocation. 
• Collaboration with External Agencies: Build and maintain relationships with government authorities, law enforcement agencies, and conservation partners. Represent OPC in security forums and liaise with stakeholders to enhance collective security efforts. Manage armory, including ivory and rhino horn registers. 
• Incident Management and Reporting: Oversee the control rooms and response to security incidents, ensuring timely reporting, investigation, and resolution. Prepare detailed security reports for senior management and donors, highlighting risks and mitigation measures. Implement necessary IT tools to enable this.  
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure all security operations comply with legal and organizational standards. Conduct regular risk assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities and implement corrective actions. 
• Visitor and Asset Safety: Oversee measures to ensure the safety of tourists, staff, and OPC assets.  Develop emergency response protocols and provide regular safety briefings. 
• Any additional duties as maybe assigned from time to time. 

Qualifications, Experience and Skills:

Qualification 

• Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Management, Conservation Biology, Veterinary Medicine or a related  field. 
• Masters Degree will be an added advantage. Membership to relevant professional bodies is recommended 

Experience  

• Minimum of 12 years of experience in the field of Wildlife Operations, Management and Security, with at least 5 years in a leadership role. 
• Proven track record of managing wildlife security teams and wildlife protection operations. • Experience working in collaboration with law enforcement agencies and conservation organisations. 

Key Skills and Qualities; 

• Advanced leadership and team management skills. 
• Strong knowledge of wildlife and security operations 
• Working knowledge of Wildlife behavior and habitat requirements and interactions • Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities. 
• Analytical and problem-solving skills. 
• Proficiency in the use of surveillance and communication technologies. 
• Commitment to OPC’s mission and values