Infrastructure and Logistics Manager

Contract Duration: Three-year contract subject to renewal based on performance and organizational requirements.

• Lead the planning, implementation, supervision and completion of all infrastructure projects within Nkhotakota Wildlife 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. LOGISTICS, STORES AND SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT
• 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. FLEET, WORKSHOP AND MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT
• 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. FIRE MANAGEMENT AND HABITAT PROTECTION
• 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. CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
• 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 concessionaries 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 for infrastructure, maintenance, logistics and field operations.
• Ensure accidents, incidents and near misses are investigated, documented and corrective actions implemented.
• Coordinate safety training, awareness programs and emergency preparedness initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with African Parks policies, national legislation and industry safety standards. ASSET MANAGEMENT
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date asset registers for all infrastructure, vehicles, equipment, tools and operational assets.
• Conduct periodic asset verification and condition assessments.
• Develop asset replacement and refurbishment plans.
• Ensure all assets are properly tracked, maintained and safeguarded. STAFF LEADERSHIP, CAPACITY BUILDING AND SUCCESSION PLANNING
• Provide leadership, supervision, coaching, mentoring and performance management for all staff under the Infrastructure and Logistics section.
• Develop training plans and facilitate skills development opportunities for staff.
• Identify and develop deputies and future leaders within operational departments.
• Implement succession planning initiatives for critical operational positions.
• Foster teamwork, accountability, professionalism and continuous improvement. STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT AND COORDINATION
• Maintain effective working relationships with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife, local authorities, concessionaries, research partners and other stakeholders.
• Represent the park in meetings relating to infrastructure, operations, logistics, maintenance and development projects.
• Support collaborative initiatives that contribute to park management objectives.
• Ensure stakeholders are informed of operational developments affecting their activities within the park. REPORTING AND ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES
• Prepare monthly, quarterly and annual operational reports for submission to the Park Manager.
• Monitor departmental performance indicators and report on progress against agreed targets.
• Maintain accurate records, databases, plans, contracts, permits and operational documentation.
• Ensure compliance with policies, procedures, financial controls and reporting requirements.
• Perform any other duties assigned by the Park Manager that contribute to the effective management of Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve.

REQUIREMENTS

• A degree or equivalent qualification in operations management, engineering, construction, logistics, conservation, natural resource management or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years’ relevant experience in field operations, infrastructure management, logistics, maintenance or protected area management.
• Demonstrated experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing contractors, service providers and operational staff.
• Strong experience in planning, stock control, procurement, systems improvement and budget management.
• Working knowledge of health and safety management, risk control and maintenance operations in demanding field environments.
• Excellent organisational, reporting, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong computer literacy and the ability to maintain accurate operational, maintenance and inventory records.
• A valid driving licence and fluency in English are essential.
• Experience in remote conservation settings, infrastructure delivery, fleet or workshop oversight and practical problem-solving will be an added advantage.
• The successful candidate must be professional, resilient, hands-on and committed to delivering high operational standards in a remote environment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under tight deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal skills with demonstrated team leadership and mentorship capabilities.