Director of Okapi Wildlife Reserve

About the role

The Wildlife Conservation Society seeks an experienced leader to serve as Director of the Okapi Wildlife Reserve in Epulu, DRC. The role provides strategic and operational leadership for the reserve’s 300‑person staff and oversees all aspects of wildlife protection, community engagement, research, tourism, fundraising and reporting.

Key responsibilities

• Full financial and operational responsibility for the reserve, including anti‑poaching, research, community conservation, logistics, M&E, and administration.
• Lead the Reserve Management Unit, coordinate six departments, and ensure compliance with SOPs and interior regulations.
• Represent the reserve to government, donors, partners and UNESCO, and manage the bi‑annual Steering Committee meetings.
• Oversee law‑enforcement strategy in collaboration with ICCN, the DRC armed forces and WCS advisors.

Required profile

• Minimum 15 years of senior management experience, preferably in conservation or international development.
• Strong leadership of large, diverse teams in high‑risk, multicultural environments.
• Proven diplomatic and decision‑making skills, with experience working with government and donor agencies.
• Fluency in French and English; knowledge of Swahili is an advantage.

Required skills

• Fluency in French.
• Fluency in English.
• Knowledge of Swahili (advantage).