Recruitment : Business Development and Sustainability Manager at Upemba National Park

Mission Description

Upemba National Park spans approximately 13,600 km² of spectacular wilderness in the Katanga province of the southern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), near the Zambian border. Benefiting from legal protection since 1939, Upemba is one of Africa's oldest parks.

The Congolese Wildlife Authority (ICCN) has signed a public-private partnership with the Forgotten Parks Foundation, delegating the management of Upemba National Park to them for the next 15 years. Under this agreement, Forgotten Parks is responsible for the management, monitoring, and protection of the park, as well as the implementation of sustainable financing mechanisms for the park and its surrounding communities.

We are seeking a dynamic young professional with a background in economics, business development, and project management to strengthen the financial viability of Upemba National Park. This role will primarily focus on the design and implementation of innovative and sustainable revenue streams for the park, while supporting project management, fundraising, and the introduction of tools and systems aimed at improving efficiency.

• Location: Lusinga, Haut-Katanga, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)

• Experience: 3 to 5 years

• Remuneration: €2,500 – €3,500 gross (Monthly)

• Start Date: February 2026

Desired Profile

1. Development of Sustainable Revenue Streams

• Identify and design innovative models to generate revenue for the park (eco-enterprises, hydroelectric partnerships, tourism concessions, collaborations with the private sector).

• Develop feasibility studies, business plans, and joint ventures aligned with conservation and community goals.

• Provide advice on governance frameworks for facilities and revenue-generating partnerships.

• Strengthen the capacity of the park team to manage and develop enterprises that contribute to long-term sustainability.

• Explore innovative financial mechanisms (trust funds, blended finance, green bonds, payment for ecosystem services).

  
  

2. Project Management

• Manage key projects at Upemba in collaboration with department heads.

• Develop project timelines and plans with clearly defined responsibilities.

• Ensure compliance with commitments and deadlines while maintaining quality, scope, and budget.

• Implement and oversee the use of project management tools and provide training.

• Develop regular project reports for management, donors, and partners.

  
  

3. Fundraising and Donor Engagement

• Assist in the preparation of funding applications, reports, and presentations.

• Manage submission deadlines and donor timelines.

• Support prospecting and outreach to donors to diversify funding sources.

• Provide strategic advice on aligning fundraising activities with long-term revenue generation strategies.

Requirements:

• Degree in Economics, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.

• Strong knowledge of business planning, joint ventures, and financial mechanisms.

• Experience in project management and fundraising.

• Entrepreneurial spirit and a proven ability to innovate and solve problems.

• Excellent communication, partnership development, and report-writing skills.

• Ability and willingness to live and work in demanding field conditions in southeastern DRC (Greater Katanga).

• Fluency in French and English, both oral and written.

• Interest in conservation, sustainable development, and community impact.

  
  

Preferred:

• Previous professional experience related to the DRC and/or Africa is preferred.

• Experience in the private sector, ideally in a high-pressure environment, is preferred.

Additional Qualities:

• You are passionate about conservation and development and share the goals that Forgotten Parks strives to achieve in and around Upemba.

• Demonstrate common sense and creativity; do not be afraid to try new things.

• Able to motivate and inspire others, and eager to share knowledge and skills.

• Demonstrate high integrity and reliability, both personally and professionally.

• Possess a strong work ethic and require minimal supervision.

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

What We Offer:

This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the financial future of one of Africa's oldest national parks by developing sustainable revenue streams, while gaining practical experience in project management and international fundraising.

How to Apply: If your profile matches what we are looking for, please send your cover letter and CV to recruitment@forgottenparks.org.