Major Function

The Head of Wildlife will be responsible for the overall strategic implementation of WWF Myanmar’s species conservation and illegal wildlife trade work. This includes the strategic direction of the wildlife programme and high-level technical lead of the overall protected area, biodiversity monitoring and law enforcement work. Furthermore, integration with other programmes, strategic partnerships with other organizations to address priority wildlife issues, landscape-scale biodiversity surveys, wildlife protection including elephant anti-poaching initiatives, and efforts to reduce illegal wildlife trade. He/she will also advance and support conservation corridor planning and effective protected area management across the Dawna Tenasserim Landscape (DTL) and priority sites within the new Ayeyarwady River Landscape (ARL) and Central Elephant Landscape (CEL). He/She will act as the key Wildlife Focal point for engagement with the global WWF network, and will serve as WWF Myanmar’s tiger focal point and overall lead for our tiger recovery initiative. He/she will also provide technical guidance to the Deputy Landscape Manager of DTL to deliver coordinated and effective wildlife conservation work in DTL.

Major Responsibilities

• Wildlife research & monitoring
• Leading WWF Myanmar’s tiger recovery work
• Zero-poaching and illegal wildlife trade
• Effective management of protected and conserved areas
• Fundraising, partnerships and capacity building
• Policy and planning

Requirements

• Master’s or higher degree or other relevant qualification in zoology, biology, wildlife conservation, or related fields
• Expertise in tiger and elephant ecology, science, and practical conservation measures
• Excellent understanding of species and landscape conservation challenges and opportunities in Myanmar and SE Asia; good understanding of Myanmar government structures, and also other conservation NGOs in Myanmar.
• At least 10 years of practical experience as a field biologist in Myanmar and/or mainland Asia, and especially in designing and undertaking wildlife and other biodiversity surveys, conducting training, and publishing results to a high scientific and peer-review standard
• Excellent interpersonal skills are essential, as well as innovative thinking and ability to work in a team
• Experience in engaging high-level government officials and communities
• Strong strategic thinking and analytical skills
• Experience in donor liaison, fund raising, proposal writing for large project an asset
• Strong presentation skills to partner, stakeholders and potential donors
• Fluency and strong communication skills in written and spoken English, Myanmar is an advantage.