At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting marine conservation projects and engage communities in protecting aquatic species.
- Company: Join ZSL, a leader in wildlife conservation with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous pension, 25 days holiday, and wellbeing initiatives.
- Other info: Work from Wales or London with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on endangered species while collaborating with diverse partners.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing complex projects and fundraising over £1M is essential.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
Purpose of the role
ZSL is seeking a Programme Manager (maternity cover) to join our Aquatic Species and Policy Programme team within the Conservation and Policy Department. The successful candidate will work across two projects:
- Project SIARC (Sharks Inspiring Action and Research with Communities) works towards a vision that threatened sharks, skates and rays and diverse coastal communities benefit from an inclusive approach to marine conservation and research in Wales. Project SIARC is led by ZSL and Natural Resources Wales (NRW), completed in partnership with Delivery Partners, Affiliates and Collaborators. Using money raised by National Lottery Players, the National Lottery Heritage Fund supports projects that connect people and communities with the UK’s heritage.
- The Angel Shark Project (ASP) is a multidisciplinary collaboration that collects ecological and population data whilst engaging with local communities, researchers, and governments to secure the future of Critically Endangered angel sharks throughout their range. The ASP works with partners and collaborators across seven regional projects. The Angel Shark Conservation Network (ASCN) is a community working to see that angel sharks are restored to robust populations safeguarded across their natural range. ZSL is the ASCN Coordinator and manages the ASCN alongside the ASCN Partners.
Key responsibilities
The Programme Manager, with support from the Aquatic Species and Policy Programme Lead, oversees the delivery of project objectives to time and budget. This includes the following key responsibilities:
- Lead management and strategic delivery of the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) grant for Project SIARC, including development of the Delivery Phase application.
- Support delivery of the Nature Networks Fund 5 (NNF5) grant for Project SIARC.
- Lead key decisions around project implementation, deliverables, inclusive community engagement and events, in line with grant contracts, work plans and project budgets for the programme of work.
- Oversee project implementation, including project monitoring, evaluation and learning plans and project logframes or gantt charts, to enable adaptive management across both projects.
- Identify fundraising opportunities and design and secure grant funding to deliver the projects.
- Develop and maintain effective working relationships and partnerships with agencies such as government authorities, national and international NGOs, private sector, research institutions, community organisations, relevant actors and donors relevant to the projects.
- Lead budget forecasting and financial management for the projects.
- Ensure both ZSL and partner funds are appropriately spent, monitored and recorded.
- Positively advocate for and role‑model Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) learning across the programme of work and ensure that projects are approved via ZSL’s Ethical Review Process both for humans and wildlife; learn and apply social and behavioural sciences.
Location
This post can be based in Wales, London or a hybrid role suitable for home working. Regular travel to London and Wales will be required.
About You
The candidate should have:
- Strong experience in managing and delivering complex multi‑partner projects on time and to budget.
- Demonstrated knowledge and experience using project management processes.
- Proven track record of fundraising and developing grant proposals over £1M.
- Experience working in Wales, UK and/or EU conservation landscape.
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail, with proven self‑motivation and problem‑solving.
- Ability to effectively build and develop relationships with a wide range of cross‑sectoral people and representatives.
- Excellent time‑management skills, including the ability to respond quickly to demands, effectively prioritise and meet deadlines, and work in a fast‑paced environment.
- Prior experience creating working environments and cultures where everyone can feel safe, inclusive and embrace diversity.
- Proven experience in report‑writing for a range of audiences (scientific, technical, wider‑public).
EEO Statement
We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences and heritage. We are committed to ensuring that our teams can come to work without fear of discrimination because of their identity.
Benefits
- Pension scheme – generous scheme with up to 12% contributory pension.
- Flexible working – our flexible working policy.
- Holidays – 25 days annual leave plus UK bank holidays.
- Wellbeing – access to wellbeing initiatives and 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
- Complimentary tickets – annual allocation of zoo tickets with a discount.
- Cycle2Work – cycle to work scheme.
- Season ticket loan – interest‑free loan to buy a season ticket for travel between home and work.
- Family friendly policies – enhanced maternity and paternity packages.
Contact recruitment@zsl.org
Aquatic Species and Policy Programme Manager/Rheolwr Rhaglen Rhywogaethau a Pholisi Dyfrol employer: Zoological Society of London
ZSL is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that champions marine conservation and community engagement. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and generous benefits including a robust pension scheme and family-friendly policies, ZSL fosters a culture of inclusivity and professional growth. Located in Wales or London, this role provides unique opportunities to collaborate with diverse partners while making a meaningful impact on aquatic species conservation.
Contact Detail:
Zoological Society of London Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Aquatic Species and Policy Programme Manager/Rheolwr Rhaglen Rhywogaethau a Pholisi Dyfrol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the conservation field. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching ZSL and their projects. Understand their mission and values, especially around marine conservation. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills and experiences align with the role of Programme Manager. Highlight your project management experience and any fundraising successes you've had. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at ZSL and contributing to their amazing work in aquatic species conservation.
We think you need these skills to ace Aquatic Species and Policy Programme Manager/Rheolwr Rhaglen Rhywogaethau a Pholisi Dyfrol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Programme Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing complex projects and any relevant work in conservation, especially in Wales. We want to see how your skills align with our mission!
Showcase Your Fundraising Skills:Since fundraising is a key part of this role, don’t forget to mention any successful grant proposals you've worked on, especially those over £1M. We love seeing concrete examples of how you’ve secured funding in the past!
Demonstrate Your EDI Commitment:Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion are super important to us at ZSL. Share any experiences where you've fostered inclusive environments or engaged diverse communities in your previous roles. This will show us that you’re a great fit for our team culture!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at ZSL!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zoological Society of London
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the details of Project SIARC and the Angel Shark Project. Understand their objectives, key partners, and how they align with ZSL's mission. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience in securing grant funding, especially for projects over £1M. Have specific examples ready that highlight your successful proposals and how you managed budgets effectively. This is crucial for the Programme Manager role.
✨Demonstrate Relationship-Building Abilities
Think of examples where you've built strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, from government authorities to community organisations. Highlight your communication skills and how you foster collaboration, as this is key for managing multi-partner projects.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to EDI
ZSL values Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Be ready to discuss how you've created inclusive environments in past roles. Share your understanding of EDI principles and how you can advocate for them within the projects you'll manage.
