Field Operations Manager - Liwonde

Job title: Field Operations Manager - Liwonde

About the Role The Field Operations Manager will be tenable at Liwonde National Park in Liwonde. Reporting directly to the Park Manager, the role provides leadership and oversight of infrastructure, logistics, maintenance and related operational support across Liwonde National Park and Mangochi Forest Reserve, ensuring that critical systems, assets and facilities are effectively managed to support conservation and tourism objectives across Liwonde National Park and Mangochi Forest Reserve.

What You'll Do

• Lead the planning, implementation, supervision and completion of all infrastructure projects within Liwonde National Park and Mangochi Forest Reserve.
• Ensure all buildings, roads, bridges, staff housing, tourism facilities, workshops, airstrips and operational structures are completed according to approved plans, budgets and timelines.
• Develop and monitor annual and long-term infrastructure development plans in line with the Conservation Management Plan and strategic objectives.
• Oversee project handover processes and ensure all completed infrastructure is operational and maintained.
• Coordinate with contractors, consultants, suppliers and relevant stakeholders to ensure compliance with specifications and quality standards.
• Manage and supervise stores, procurement support functions, logistics operations and inventory systems.
• Ensure effective stock control procedures are implemented and maintained.
• Monitor inventory levels and ensure uninterrupted availability of operational supplies and equipment.
• Develop systems that improve accountability, transparency and efficiency in procurement and logistics processes.
• Ensure all stores and logistics records are accurate, up-to-date and audit ready.
• Supervise workshop operations, fleet management and maintenance personnel.
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance schedules for vehicles, boats, generators, buildings, roads, fences and operational equipment.
• Ensure timely servicing and repair of vehicles, boats and machinery to minimize downtime.
• Monitor maintenance costs and promote cost-effective maintenance practices.
• Maintain comprehensive maintenance records and asset histories.
• Lead the implementation of approved fire management plans and annual fire strategies.
• Coordinate fire prevention, preparedness, response and recovery activities.
• Ensure firebreaks are established and maintained according to approved standards.
• Monitor fire incidents and implement corrective measures to reduce future occurrences.
• Support habitat restoration and ecological management initiatives through effective fire management practices.
• Support implementation of operational components of the General Management Plan and annual work plans.
• Coordinate operational activities across departments to ensure timely delivery of conservation objectives.
• Monitor progress against approved work plans and provide regular reports to the Park Manager.
• Participate in strategic planning and review processes to improve operational effectiveness.
• Tourism Infrastructure and Support Services: Ensure all tourism infrastructure, facilities, roads, campsites, and equipment are maintained to high operational standards.
• Support tourism concessionaires and partners by ensuring operational infrastructure remains functional and compliant.
• Coordinate maintenance and development projects that enhance visitor experiences and tourism growth.
• Respond promptly to infrastructure-related issues affecting tourism operations.
• Systems Improvement, Cost Management and Operational Efficiency: Identify and implement systems that improve operational efficiency, accountability and service delivery.
• Develop and monitor operational budgets and ensure prudent utilization of resources.
• Introduce cost-saving initiatives without compromising operational effectiveness and safety.
• Establish performance monitoring systems for infrastructure, logistics and maintenance functions.
• Ensure operational data, reports and records support informed decision-making.
• Contractor and Service Provider Management: Develop scopes of work, specifications and performance standards for contractors and service providers.
• Participate in contractor selection and procurement processes.
• Supervise contractor performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations, quality standards, safety requirements and project timelines.
• Review contractor deliverables and certify completed works where appropriate.
• Manage contractor relationships and resolve operational issues effectively.
• Aviation Operations and Compliance: Oversee management of airstrips, aviation facilities and aviation-related infrastructure within the park.
• Ensure aviation assets are maintained in accordance with applicable regulations and operational standards.
• Coordinate inspections, audits and compliance requirements relating to aviation operations.
• Maintain aviation records and documentation to ensure audit readiness.
• Liaise with relevant aviation authorities and service providers as required.
• Health, Safety and Risk Management: Promote and maintain a strong culture of occupational health and safety across all operational activities.
• Conduct risk assessments and implement mitigation measures.