South Africa: Anti-Poaching Unit Manager posted by Wild Dreams Hospitality

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced leader to head anti-poaching efforts in a high-risk conservation zone. As a senior manager, you will be responsible for providing strategic and operational leadership for anti-poaching teams, developing and implementing counter-poaching strategies aligned with conservation goals, and overseeing data collection, GPS mapping, and analysis for operational planning.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for anti-poaching teams
• Develop and implement counter-poaching strategies aligned with conservation goals
• Train, mentor, and manage multi-disciplinary field personnel
• Oversee data collection, GPS mapping, and analysis for operational planning
• Manage logistics, resources, and equipment for field operations
• Coordinate closely with local law enforcement and relevant agencies
• Lead operational deployments in remote and high-risk environments
• Ensure compliance with security legislation and wildlife crime procedures
• Supervise use of K9 units, aerial surveillance (e.g. drones), and intelligence gathering
• Maintain accurate records and reporting systems using relevant software
• Uphold physical readiness standards and safety protocols in rugged terrain
• Administer trauma care and first aid in field settings
• Support broader conservation and wildlife management initiatives where required
• Ensure all personnel meet legal and operational requirements, including background checks and certifications

Requirements

• Minimum 5 years’ senior experience in counter-poaching, military, or high-risk security operations
• Tertiary qualification in wildlife conservation, natural resource management, security operations, or a related field
• Strong knowledge of law enforcement procedures and wildlife crime legislation
• Proven leadership of multi-disciplinary teams in remote, high-pressure environments
• Certified in firearm handling with demonstrable field experience
• Experience with K9 units, aerial surveillance (e.g. drones), and intelligence operations
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant operational software
• Skilled in GPS data collection, mapping, and GIS applications
• High level of physical fitness and ability to operate in rugged, hazardous terrain
• Fluent in English; additional language skills are advantageous
• Willingness to work long, flexible hours with minimal supervision
• Certified in First Aid, including trauma care in remote or high-risk settings
• Additional experience in wildlife management or conservation is beneficial
• Valid driver’s license and Professional Driving Permit (PDP)
• Police clearance and successful completion of a full background check required

Qualifications

None mentioned.

Salary & Benefits

Namibian $50k CTC, semi-furnished accommodation with utilities included, housekeeping services provided on a rotational basis, uniform and DSTV package aligned with role, Wi-Fi access and flights to/from Windhoek subject to availability, emergency medical evacuation and accident insurance coverage, optional pension and medical aid, discounted stays at select lodges per management policy.