The SMART Partnership is a unique collaboration of conservation organizations* that share a mission to protect wildlife and its habitat in protected areas by empowering conservationists with the data, technology, skills and understanding necessary to make the best possible use of available resources. Central to the Partnership is the SMART software platform, which has become the most widely adopted tool globally (over 1200 sites in 100+ countries) for monitoring, evaluating and improving the effectiveness of law enforcement and management in protected areas.
The Partnership develops and maintains the SMART software platform, promotes the use of SMART software, supports training and capacity building in SMART implementation and associated best practices for protected area management, provides tools to secure adoption of SMART by implementing agencies, collaborates with other related and complementary initiatives, develops standards for protected area operation, and facilitates outreach and coordination between existing and potential SMART users. Learn more at www.smartconservationsoftware.org.
Re:wild protects and restores the wild. We have a singular and powerful focus: the wild as the most effective solution to the interconnected climate, biodiversity and human health crises. Founded by a group of renowned conservation scientists together with Leonardo DiCaprio, Re:wild is a force multiplier that brings together Indigenous peoples, local communities, influential leaders, nongovernmental organizations, governments, companies and the public to protect and rewild at the scale and speed we need. Learn more at rewild.org. Re:wild is the hiring partner for this position and will host the position on behalf of the SMART Partnership.
The role of the SMART Partnership is to facilitate the effective management of PCAs through software support and development, and capacity building via a range of measures. While all SMART Partnership members are engaged in implementing SMART targets at various sites around the world, Partnership activities typically do not include site-level SMART implementation, other than facilitation and support of SMART training and activities.
The SMART Admin assistant is integral to the success of the SMART Partnership and the implementation of SMART globally. This position plays a vital role in support of Partnership activities, and ensuring the effectiveness of the SMART team. The Admin assistant reports directly to the SMART Executive Director and will be hired as a Re:wild employee. Work will be remote.
The SMART Partnership Administrative Assistant will have five main areas of responsibility:
Administrative Support:
Manage calendars, schedule meetings, and coordinate appointments for the SMART team.
Handle travel arrangements, accommodations, and itineraries for trainings, field visits, conferences, and meetings.
Prepare and organize documents, reports, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
Communication and Coordination:
Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external queries, phone calls, and correspondence.
Facilitate communication between team members, partners, and stakeholders.
Participate in, and encourage the use of, community user groups.
Keep social media and website content current and consistent.
Draft and proofread emails, letters, and other communications.
Data Management and Research:
Maintain databases, files, and records related to conservation projects and initiatives.
Conduct research on conservation topics, policy updates, and funding opportunities.
Compile information and prepare briefs for meetings and presentations.
Project Support:
Assist in project planning, monitoring, and reporting activities.
Coordinate logistics for workshops, events, and field trips.
Track project timelines, deliverables, and milestones.
Financial and Resource Management:
Assist with budget tracking, expense reports, and procurement processes.
Monitor and manage office supplies and equipment needs.
Proven experience as a Personal Assistant or similar role, preferably in the conservation or environmental sector.
Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks.
Strong communication skills (verbal and written) and attention to detail.
Proficiency in MS Office and other relevant software applications.
Familiarity with SMART, GIS and or graphic design software preferred.
Knowledge of conservation issues and interest in environmental sustainability.
Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Conservation Biology, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
Ability to speak other languages is preferred.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Discretion and confidentiality in handling sensitive information.
Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and deadlines.
Strong interpersonal skills and a professional demeanour.
This is a full-time, exempt, position.
Preferred position location is in the Hoedspruit, Lowveld area of South Africa, but other locations within South Africa will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Re:wild offers a competitive salary (Projected salary range of ZAR 150-350,000 with the final determination to be made commensurate with the candidate’s experience).
Re:wild provides leave, and other benefits inline with South African norms and standards.
Qualified candidates are asked to submit a cover letter and résumé (as one document) to careers@rewild.org no later than August 26th. Please include “SMART Administrative Assistant” in the subject line.
For more information, please visit www.rewild.org.
Closing date for applications is 26th of August 2024
We will contact successful applicants only, if you have not heard anything within 2 weeks of the closing date you should consider your application unsuccessful.
Re:wild is committed to diversity and building an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds and are taking steps to meet that commitment. We encourage members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including people of color, women, LGBTQ people, and people with disabilities.