Conservation Manager

Recruiter

Wild Dreams Hospitality

Job Ref

WDH002454/Nuret

Date posted

Friday, July 24, 2026

Location

Graaff Reinet, South Africa

SUMMARY

A prestigious private game reserve in the Eastern Cape is seeking an experienced and passionate CONSERVATION MANAGER to lead their conservation and reserve management operation.

POSITION INFO

This is a senior, hands-on role for a driven conservation professional with a strong track record in protected area or wildlife management. The successful candidate will take ownership of the reserve's conservation strategy, ecological monitoring programmes, and team leadership, contributing meaningfully to long-term biodiversity and ecosystem goals within a world-class private reserve environment. Core Criteria: Tertiary qualification in nature conservation, ecology, environmental sciences, or a related field Minimum 5 years' experience in a conservation management or protected area management role Strong knowledge of wildlife management, ecological monitoring, and biodiversity conservation principles Experience with anti-poaching strategy, security operations, and perimeter management Solid understanding of relevant environmental legislation, including NEMBA and NEMPAA Competent in GIS and conservation data management tools Experience with alien vegetation control, veld management, and land restoration Valid driver's licence with 4x4 experience essential Firearm competency essential Strong leadership, people management, and report writing skills Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders Comfortable living and working in a remote environment Core Responsibilities: Develop and implement a strategic conservation and reserve management plan aligned to the reserve's long-term biodiversity goals Oversee and manage all ecological monitoring programmes, including game census, camera traps, veld condition assessments, and landscape use analysis Manage wildlife, including species of special interest, translocations, and introductions Oversee ecosystem management, including alien vegetation control, soil erosion management, grazing monitoring, and water provisioning Manage and mentor the conservation team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement Oversee anti-poaching unit strategy, personnel, and operations Manage access control, perimeter security, and reserve infrastructure including fencing, roads, boreholes, and water reticulation Coordinate responses to wildfire, flooding, and other natural events Cultivate existing research and conservation partnerships and develop new collaborations Compile budgets, forecasts, and regular conservation reports Maintain compliance with all relevant environmental legislation and permit requirements Maintain open and effective communication with all internal departments and external stakeholders Remuneration & Benefits: Salary: Market-related, dependent on experience and qualifications Live-in position with accommodation provided on the reserve