JOB DETAILS: Job Purpose
Under the direct supervision of the Project Manager, the Eco-tourism Project Manager will assist in the delivery of capacity-building initiatives and product development in line with community-based eco-tourism goals and objectives.
Key Responsibilities Planning and implementation
• Develop an Ecosystem wide ecotourism strategic plan for the respective project catchment area and led its implementation.
• lead the periodic review of the Ecosystem wide ecotourism strategic plan to ensure learning and reflective practice and adaptive management are part of the project implementation.
• Ensure delivery of the Ecosystem wide ecotourism strategic plan through the implementation of inclusive eco-tourism business cases.
• Share eco-tourism-related knowledge and skills internally amongst SHA staff and externally to project participants and other stakeholders.
Monitoring
• Support the collection, systemic analysis, and reporting of the implementation of the Ecosystem wide ecotourism strategic plan.
• Document lessons and successes from the eco-tourism business models for learning and replication.
Reporting
• Provide regular updates on the progress of the implementation of the eco-tourism activities and any other issues which require attention and support from Management.
• Provide periodic reports as required by management and stakeholders.
• Ensure project implementation and sticking points are dealt with and resolved in real time.
Coordination and Communication
• Frequently coordinate with implementing partners (for training etc.) for effective implementation of the project.
• Coordinate with relevant government and other agencies working in the tourism sector in Uganda, including UWA & Uganda Tourism Board, Private Tour Operators, and other key actors in the tourism sector.
• Communicate regularly with partners and stakeholders throughout all phases of the project to ensure effective teamwork and successful delivery.
• Assess and map eco-tourism resource assets in cooperation with stakeholders.
• Utilise effective communication channels to promote the eco-tourism facility to ensure the sustainability of the project over the long term.
Program Development
• Support the development of ecotourism businesses including broadly green businesses in line with industry best practices and approaches.
• Support the development of the local value chain in terms of maximizing the business opportunities from the community and the private sector.
• Build skills within community ecotourism groups to effectively develop ecotourism products, and services, host tourists, and engage with the private sector.
• Assist the Project Manager in the design of community-level ecotourism knowledge products and training materials.
• Work closely with Community and Batwa groups to promote community-based ecotourism products, services, and promotional materials.
• Stay up to date with emerging concepts and new tourism products that can be identified and suggested to the project.
• Identify and explore opportunities for the project to get good publicity to support the successful implementation and sustainability of the eco-tourism business going forward.
R6: Policy
• Remain informed and updated on tourism and related policy issues.
Key Relationships
Internal:
• Project Manager, Project Officers, technical Coordinators & other project staff
• Self Help Africa Uganda Country Programme Staff and administrative staff
External:
• Farmer groups, youth and women groups, government departments, private enterprises, donors, Civil society organisations.
Knowledge, Experience and Other Requirements Essential:
Knowledge:
• Demonstrated knowledge of the principles of ecotourism and how to manage successful ecotourism projects and facilities is essential. A bachelor’s degree in Tourism Management, Forestry, Environmental Management, or similar field is strongly preferred.
• Additional qualification in Business Management Administration and or, Entrepreneurship will be an added advantage, but not an essential requirement.
Experience:
• At least 3 years of experience is required in the field of managing, developing, and implementing of eco-tourism facilities. Essential experience in managing projects to deliver objectives on time and on budget, and Monitoring and Evaluation.
• Must be eligible to work in Uganda.
Desirable:
• Highly entrepreneurial and focused on the pursuit of both Conservation and Tourism goals with the proven ability to deliver.
• Excellent communication skills that include technical writing and marketing skills.
• Excellent command of both oral and written English desirable.
• Proficient in computer programs including MS Word, MS Excel, and MS PowerPoint.
• The candidate should be a self-starter and a good team player.
