SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL PARKS (SANPARKS)

SENIOR MANAGER: BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT UNIT

The Organisation requires the services of a Senior Manager: Business Development unit. This position will be based at the Groenkloof National Park, Pretoria.

Location Groenkloof National Park (Head Office)

Requirements

• Should be in possession of a NQF level 8 in Commerce, Business Management, Finance, Tourism Management, or a related field.
• NQF level 9 in Business Administration (MBA), Commerce, Finance, Tourism or a related field will be an added advantage.
• Professional Project Management certification (e.g. PRINCE2 Practitioner, PMP or equivalent) will serve as an added advantage.
• Should have 5 work years’ experience in tourism or conservation industry.
• Should have Extensive experience in the implementation of complex projects.
• Experience in Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in terms of National Treasury Regulation 16 will be an advantage.
• Management consulting experience will be an advantage.
• Experience within the tourism, conservation or public sector environment will be an advantage.
• Should have an understanding of work-related legislation.
• Should have Knowledge of Project Management.
• Should have Computer literacy.
• Should have Knowledge in Public Private Management.
• Should have an Understanding of the tourism and conservation industry.
• Should have the Ability to work in a matrix environment.
• Should have Knowledge of Effective risk management.
• Should have Knowledge of Outcome based monitoring and evaluation.
• Should have Knowledge of Audit and Quality assurance management.
• Project Management skills.
• Communications skills verbal and written.
• Interpersonal skills.
• Negotiation and conflict management skills.
• Presentation skills.
• Diversity and change management.
• Financial management skills.
• Strategic planning.
• Willingness to take on additional responsibility and drive outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Conduct pre-feasibility studies of tourism development opportunities.
• Engage in SANParks’ strategy to diversify the tourism product range.
• Engage with National Treasury to initiate projects and to ensure that models being implemented are optimal.
• Actively engage role players to ensure detailed bid specifications, compilation of tender documents, facilitation of various steps in the process such as bidders conferences, tender evaluation and presentation to the bid adjudication committee, EXCO, audit and risk committee of the Board and the SANParks Board. Participation in legal clarification to ensure risk transfer via the PPP Agreement.
• Ensure projects are implemented on time and within budget. This includes engagements with a variety of departments within the organisation such as legal services, conservation services, socio economic transformation and departments within tourism i.e. interpretation, research, reservations, etc.
• Manage a comprehensive portfolio of PPP projects that contributes in excess of R 45 million per annum to SANParks’ income.
• Provide policy advisory support services to Executive Management and employees.
• Coordinate expert input from SANParks into drafting and amendment of relevant policies, norms, and standards.
• Ensure adherence to the Environmental Assessments conducted.
• Research and create viable models and identify suitable operators to ensure viability of these ventures.
• Manage the planning, procurement, and implementation of approved tourism development opportunities.
• Actively involved in the creation and implementation of models to ensure benefit flow to SANParks, communities adjacent to the parks and land claimants
• Active involvement in revenue generating projects to the benefit of SANParks.
• Continuous improvement of models and implementation of alternative models where the PPP model is not optimal i.e. engaging in Management Agreements.
• Direct engagement with private party e-level executives, SANParks stakeholders, interested and affected parties, community representatives, land claimant representatives as well as SANParks internal stakeholders.
• Conflict management — facilitate solutions between SANParks and the private sector.
• Ensure standardisation when implementing projects.
• Differentiate between Treasury regulations 16 and ensure implementation in line with the appropriate regulation.
• Ensure approvals at all levels i.e. exemption application, EXCO approvals, Board approvals.
• Incorporation of regulation changes into tender documentation to ensure that processes are not challenged.
• Review of project manager documentation — content, formatting, etc.
• Ensure compliance with SANParks’ conservation mandate which includes confirmation of built areas (with the appropriate conservation zone). Keep all role-players informed and updated on progress and developments.
• Use information derived from external ECO audits to improve own internal Processes.
• Lead and ensure a high performing team. Mentoring and coaching team.
• Ensure that the unit is adequately staffed. Develop interview models that will ensure high quality team members are appointed.

Please Note

Please Indicate the position you are applying for on the subject line and quote the vacancy reference number on the subject line when sending your application. Reference Number: SMBDU003

Applicants with foreign qualifications must submit evaluated results from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).

SANParks is an equal opportunity employer.

Salary R943 635.00 – R1 415 505.00 Annual Package

How To Apply

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should forward their applications accompanied by the required documentation listed below to the following:

Documents Required

A cover letter, detailed Curriculum Vitae, certified copies of qualification(s), and Identity Document (certified within 3 three-month periods) to the following address:

Human Capital Division

SA National Parks

PO Box 787

PRETORIA

0001

E-mail: recruitments1@sanparks.org

If you do not receive a response within 21 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful. Appointments will be made in accordance with SANParks employment equity policies.

Closing Date 27 July 2026

FIELD RANGER (FIXED-TERM CONTRACT)

A vacancy currently exists for a Fixed-term Field Ranger at Addo Elephant National Park (Marine Section). The successful incumbent will report to the Section Ranger. Contract ending 31 March 2029.

Location Addo Elephant National Park

Requirements

• Matric/NQF Level 4.
• Level 4 Handle and Self-Loading Rifle Firearm Proficiency.
• 1–2 years’ on-the-job training in a nature conservation field.
• Valid Code 8 driver’s licence.
• On-the-job training following the successful completion of Basic Field Ranger Training.
• EMI Grade 5 designation (compulsory) or the ability to qualify within the stipulated period.
• Computer skills (MS Office – basic to intermediate level).
• Off-road driving skills.
• Firearm handling skills are essential.
• Para-military training skills.
• Basic trauma treatment skills.
• Clandestine operations experience.
• Health and Safety and First Aid skills.
• Penguin rehabilitation skills.

Responsibilities

Biodiversity Conservation:

• Recognise and identify typical ecosystems, habitats, plant and animal species, and their signs.
• Accurately record and report observations of wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems.
• Assist with the control, capture, handling, and transportation of animals.

Wildlife Protection:

• Ensure that the natural, recreational, wildlife, and cultural assets of the protected environment are protected, enhanced, and managed.
• Identify threatened animal populations and assist with protecting them.
• Conduct effective patrols and execute anti-poaching operations through deployments, observation posts, and camping.
• Perform Bird Island duties.

Administration, Information and Research:

• Gather information for the implementation of management plans using electronic devices.
• Participate in research projects.
• Maintain records and prepare reports on work activities.

Compliance and Safety:

• Maintain law and order among staff members, guests, and all other stakeholders within the protected areas.
• Assist with visitor management and safety as and when required.
• Follow good safety and environmental practices in the field and the workplace.
• Safely use and maintain hand tools and equipment.
• Administer first aid and respond appropriately to accidents and emergencies.
• Work in compliance with instructions, briefings, laws, regulations, and procedures.
• Identify signs and evidence of unauthorised activities and security threats in the field.
• Respond correctly and appropriately to physical threats and attacks.
• Care for and use firearms legally, correctly, and safely.
• Provide information to protected area users about the laws, rights, and regulations affecting the protected area.
• Participate in supervised law enforcement operations in compliance with standard operating procedures.
• Follow legal, ethical, and safe procedures for apprehending suspects, violators, and detainees.
• Follow correct procedures for protecting crime scenes and for seizing, securing, and documenting evidence.
• Treat suspects and members of the public correctly and lawfully during law enforcement activities.
• Follow correct procedures for documenting and reporting on law enforcement activities.
• Respond correctly to non-violent disputes and confrontations.
• Gather information to support law enforcement and security operations.
• Avoid, prevent, and report dishonest and/or illegal practices.
• Operate effectively in hazardous working environments.

Field Craft and Site Maintenance:

• Use maps and compasses/charts for orientation and navigation.
• Correctly use and care for basic field surveying instruments.
• Detect, prevent, fight, and control fires.
• Correctly use and maintain field communication equipment.
• Use a Global Positioning System (GPS) for orientation and navigation.
• Complete basic construction tasks.
• Set up and operate field camps.

Please Note

The successful candidate will be required to reside in official accommodation. Shared official accommodation will be provided within the park. It is an operational requirement for the successful candidate to reside within the park. The accommodation makes use of solar power for electricity. The remuneration package includes a basic salary based on the salary scale of a position with a Paterson B3 job grade, together with allowances and benefits as specified in the HR Tariff Document and the Conditions of Service of SANParks.

Appointment will be in accordance with EE plan targets.

SANParks is an equal opportunity employer. SANParks reserves the right not to make an appointment. South African citizens will receive priority unless otherwise specified.

Paterson Grade B3

How To Apply

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should forward their applications accompanied by the required documentation listed below to the following:

Documents Required

Application will only be completed when you have completed the below steps:

1. Use the following reference number on your application:

AENP/FRFT

1. Complete the link below:

https://forms.office.com/r/tah6s0fmMN

1. Submit CV:

Accompanied by a Cover letter, CV, Certified copies of ID, and relevant qualifications to be submitted to the following address: addovacancies@sanparks.org

Closing Date 23 July 2026