Director of Okapi Wildlife Reserve

About the role

The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is seeking an experienced leader to serve as Director of the Okapi Wildlife Reserve (OWR) in Epulu, Democratic Republic of Congo. The Director will oversee all aspects of reserve management, ensuring the protection of its iconic wildlife and the well‑being of surrounding communities.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for the OWR Management Unit and its ~300 staff across six departments.
• Oversee ranger deployment, anti‑poaching operations, and wildlife protection initiatives.
• Manage relationships with government partners, ICCN, state enforcement agencies, and NGOs.
• Lead community liaison, sustainable agriculture programs, tourism development, and fundraising activities.
• Ensure accurate reporting, communications, monitoring & evaluation, and capacity building of national staff.
• Administer a significant budget and guarantee efficient day‑to‑day program operations.

Required profile

• Extensive experience managing large, complex conservation projects in challenging environments.
• Proven leadership, diplomatic, and communication skills.
• Ability to work securely in an insecure, remote setting.
• Demonstrated capacity to manage sizable teams and multi‑million‑dollar budgets.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead one of Africa’s most important protected areas.
• Engagement with a global conservation network.
• Competitive compensation and benefits commensurate with senior leadership roles.