Site Manager (3) - Luzon Landscapes, Western Visayas & Northern Mindanao

Conservation International is seeking a Site Manager for Luzon Landscapes, Western Visayas, and Northern Mindanao, based in Quezon City, Philippines. The role involves implementing biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation projects, overseeing site-based interventions, and liaising with stakeholders. Responsibilities include project planning, management, and evaluation, ensuring activities are completed on time and within budget while representing the Project Director in various meetings.
Site Manager – Luzon Landscape, Western Visayas, & Northern Mindanao

Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity. Through science, policy, fieldwork, and finance, we spotlight and secure the most important places in nature for the climate, biodiversity, and for people. With offices in 30 countries and projects in more than 100 countries, Conservation International partners with governments, companies, civil society, Indigenous peoples, and local communities to help people and nature thrive together.

Conservation International Philippines Foundation Inc. (CIPFI) was established in 1995 and became a registered independent legal entity in 2015. With over 40 staff members, including experts in conservation sciences, social science, and public policies, CIPFI collaborates with the government and local communities to protect healthy ecosystems. Building upon a strong foundation of science, partnership, and field demonstration, Conservation International empowers societies to responsibly and sustainably care for nature, our global biodiversity, for the well-being of humanity. CIPFI envisions a world where societies value and care for nature and global biodiversity for the long-term benefit of all life on Earth. The organization works on land and sea, providing innovative nature-based climate change mitigation and adaptation solutions. With a strong track record in the Philippines, CIPFI focuses on biodiversity conservation, ecosystem-based adaptation, climate policy, financing, and technical assistance to various stakeholders in key biodiversity areas in the country.

POSITION SUMMARY - This position is based in the Philippines

The Site Manager for Luzon Landscape, Western Visayas, and Northern Mindanao will serve as the primary lead for implementing project-related activities in assigned province in the Philippines. Reporting directly to the Project Director (PD), the Site Manager will play a pivotal role in overseeing and executing site-based interventions, which include the development of biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation plans, marine and forestry protection and restoration, and designing local development projects for funding. The post-holder will act as the first point of contact for all project-related activities within Northern Mindanao, representing the PD in project meetings and functions. This role necessitates strategic leadership, comprehensive project management, and effective liaison with key stakeholders, including local governments, the private sector, and local communities, including indigenous peoples. Additionally, the Site Manager will be responsible for the project's planning, monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning aspects.

The post-holder will ensure the planned activities are conducted on time and budget (FC) reports to the PD and is tasked with facilitating the movement of the management and technical teams, supports the organization of meetings, stakeholder consultations, orientation sessions and training related activities, liaise between the Project Coordinating Team (CMT) and project consultants, partners and stakeholders.

RESPONSIBILITIES
• Develop detailed work plans, timelines, and budgets for project activities, organize, and oversee the timely and efficient implementation of project activities in the project sites, ensuring they are carried out effectively and in line with project objectives, align with the Ridge to Reef strategy and timelines.
• Ensure the alignment of site-based interventions with the project's overarching goals and objectives.
• Identify opportunities to leverage project resources to provide opportunities for all stakeholder types to participate and collaborate on project objectives and activities.
• Foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement in execution at the project site.
• Oversee the development, implementation, and monitoring of biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation plans in the assigned province.
• Provide guidance to Natural Resources Management Specialist related to on-site marine and forestry protection and restoration, ensuring the effective use of resources and adherence to project timelines.
• Facilitate the design, planning, and implementation of local development projects, coordinating with CIPFI in-house experts, consultants, and relevant stakeholders.
• Act as the primary point of contact between the project, consortium partners, and key stakeholders in the assigned province, including local governments, the private sector, and local communities, including indigenous peoples.
• Coordinate with sub-national, provincial, municipal, and community leaders to ensure alignment and collaboration.
• Promote active community participation in project design and implementation, ensuring their needs and perspectives are considered.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive working environment, promoting local ownership and participation, strong relationships with local communities, government bodies, academic institutions, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Work with the project’s M&E Officer in overseeing the implementation of PMEAL frameworks for the assigned province, including robust knowledge management and accountability systems.
• Ensure the project is on track in achieving its goals, conducting regular assessments, and making data-driven adjustments as needed.
• Provide timely and comprehensive updates to the project leadership on progress, challenges, and opportunities in the province.
• Contribute to the development of reports, case studies, and communication materials highlighting local project successes and lessons learned.
• Promote a culture of accountability and learning, using project results to inform improvements and innovations.

WORKING CONDITIONS
• This position is a full-time role and will be site-based.
• The initial contract will be for one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance. The TRANSCEND project will be implemented for a period of five years.
• The position will require travel about 70% of the time in the implementing sites and may need to work extended hours, in remote locations, often in difficult travel conditions.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required
• A Bachelor's degree or higher in a relevant field, such as environmental science, natural resource management, conservation biology, sustainable development, or related disciplines.
• 4 to 6 years of demonstrated experience in managing and implementing conservation or sustainable development projects, preferably with a focus on integrated approaches from ridge to reef, riparian management, coastal and marine resources management, etc. proficiency in project management, including work planning, budgeting, monitoring, and evaluation, preferably within environmental conservation, climate change adaptation, or community development projects. Has extensive experience working in the remote or island settings in the Philippines, with problem-solving skills and the ability to navigate challenges in a complex and dynamic context. Experience working with local communities and indigenous peoples is a plus.
• Up to 2 years of supervisory experience.
• Expertise: Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities. Comprehensive understanding of ecosystem dynamics, conservation strategies, and sustainable development principles. Ability to work independently, as well as in a team-oriented and collaborative environment. Has strong attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines. Familiarity with climate change adaptation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development concepts.
• Strategic Thinking and Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to guide a multidisciplinary team towards project objectives. Demonstrated ability to think strategically and to adapt to evolving project needs and challenges.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Cultural Sensitivity: Strong understanding of local context, including knowledge of the provincial culture, politics, and stakeholders. Proven experience in stakeholder engagement, community mobilization, and participatory approaches. Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including indigenous people and local communities, government agencies, NGOs, and private sector partners. Respect for local cultures and an understanding of how human activities intersect with ecosystem dynamics. Experience with participatory approaches and community engagement is an asset.
• Team Leadership and Communication: Strong leadership and interpersonal skills to effectively engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and the local language(s) to facilitate effective communication with both local communities and partners. Ability to work effectively with a multidisciplinary team of specialists, researchers, and community members.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and project management tools will be an advantage.

Preferred
• Master's degree

To apply for this position please submit a resume and cover letter.

Application Deadline: May 30, 2025 (11:49 PM EST)