Rights & Communities Manager

• A minimum of a master's degree in social sciences, Community Development, Natural Resource Management, Conservation, Development Studies, Anthropology, Sociology, Environmental Sciences or a related field.
• At least 7 years of progressively responsible professional experience, preferably with international conservation or development organizations, including substantial field experience in community-based conservation, natural resource governance or rural development in Africa.
• Demonstrated experience leading or coordinating multidisciplinary programmes involving community conservation, livelihoods, governance, social science, safeguards or human-wildlife coexistence.
• Strong practical knowledge of rights-based conservation, participatory approaches, social inclusion, community governance, environmental and social safeguards, grievance mechanisms and benefit-sharing approaches.
• Proven ability to develop strategies, annual workplans, budgets, monitoring and learning systems and high-quality donor and program reports.
• Demonstrated ability to design, oversee or use socio-economic, behavioral or governance research to improve program implementation and demonstrate social and conservation impact.
• Proven ability to manage, coach and strengthen multidisciplinary field teams and to work effectively with government authorities, local leadership, communities, NGOs, private sector and development partners.
• Excellent facilitation, analytical, negotiation, interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills in English; ability to communicate in languages relevant to communities around Ishasha is a strong advantage.

Core Competencies

The successful candidate should demonstrate strong commitment to conservation and community rights; strategic thinking; collaborative leadership; cultural sensitivity; integrity and accountability; strong relationship-building skills; ability to work in complex community and institutional environments; and willingness to spend substantial time working with frontline communities and field teams in the Ishasha landscape.

How to apply

Interested candidates who meet the above qualifications, skills, and experience should apply through the application tab by September 2nd, 2026. We review received applications on a rolling basis.

WCS is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all employment and labour laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination in hiring and ensure that candidates from all backgrounds are fairly and consistently considered during the recruitment process. We are dedicated to hiring and supporting a diverse workforce. We are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment and looking for future team members who share that same value. The organization provides equal employment opportunities for all qualified candidates. The organization does not discriminate against employment based on age, colour, disability, gender identity, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by laws and regulations.

Note: This position is open to Ugandan nationals and candidates who currently hold a valid permit to work in Uganda.

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