Independent Contractor: Sustainability Specialist

SUMMARY:
Our client, a leader in the nature conservation industry, has an exciting opportunity available for a Sustainability Specialist - Independent Contractor. The client is seeking a highly skilled Sustainability Specialist to develop a comprehensive Sustainability Strategy and Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Framework for Sustainability Reporting for the organisation.

POSITION INFO:
Key Responsibilities:

• Develop a Sustainability Strategy aligned with SANParks’ conservation, tourism, and operational goals.
• Design a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework to measure and report on sustainability performance, which includes coordinating a baselining study.
• Assess current sustainability practices and recommend improvements.
• Identify key sustainability indicators and establish reporting mechanisms.
• Ensure compliance with local and international sustainability standards and best practices.
• Collaborate with internal teams and stakeholders to integrate sustainability initiatives.
• Develop a reporting structure to track progress against sustainability targets.

• Minimum of a Masters Degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Conservation, or a related field, with a PhD being an added advantage.
• 10 years experience working with government agencies, conservation organizations, or the tourism sector.
• Knowledge of South African environmental policies and international sustainability standards.
• Proven experience in sustainability strategy development and M&E frameworks, with at portfolio of at least 3 similar assignments.
• Strong knowledge of environmental management, conservation, climate action, and sustainable tourism.
• Experience in data collection, analysis, and reporting on sustainability metrics.
• Familiarity with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting frameworks.
• Excellent research, analytical, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work independently and deliver high-quality outputs within deadlines.