We are seeking a highly motivated professional to fill this critical position, which offers a unique opportunity to drive meaningful impact within our organization. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record in [specific field/industry, if applicable], along with [X years] of relevant experience in [key responsibilities or areas of expertise]. Key qualifications include [specific skills, certifications, or educational background], and the ability to [specific competencies, e.g., lead cross-functional teams, analyze complex data, or develop strategic initiatives]. This role demands exceptional problem-solving skills, adaptability to dynamic challenges, and a commitment to delivering high-quality results. Responsibilities will encompass [list key duties, e.g., overseeing project execution, collaborating with stakeholders, or implementing innovative solutions], with an emphasis on fostering collaboration, innovation, and operational excellence.
The Northern Rangeland Trust (NRT) is looking to appoint a seasoned and visionary leader to fill the role of Carbon Program Director. This position will entail providing comprehensive leadership and strategic direction for the Northern Kenya Rangeland Carbon Project (NKRCP), a major community-led soil carbon initiative spanning 22 conservancies in northern Kenya.
The initiative advances rangeland restoration, biodiversity conservation, sustainable grazing management, climate resilience, and long-term community livelihoods by leveraging carbon finance and promoting landscape stewardship.
The Carbon Program Director will spearhead strategic, technical, operational, and stakeholder leadership for the Northern Kenya Rangeland Carbon Project (NKRCP), overseeing its comprehensive development and implementation.
This position will manage the execution of projects, ensure adherence to governance protocols, maintain compliance with carbon standards and national regulations, facilitate community engagement initiatives, oversee benefit-sharing frameworks, foster stakeholder relationships, and achieve conservation and livelihood objectives within the participating conservancies.
The ideal candidate will collaborate extensively with NRT senior leadership, community governance bodies, governmental organizations, technical collaborators, and relevant stakeholders to uphold the project’s technical rigor, social acceptability, fiscal accountability, and alignment with enduring rangeland conservation and community development objectives.
Oversee and execute core duties centered on [specific responsibilities, e.g., financial reporting, team leadership, or project execution], ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. Develop and implement strategic plans to enhance operational efficiency and drive sustainable growth. Collaborate cross-functionally with stakeholders to streamline processes, mitigate risks, and optimize resource allocation. Monitor performance metrics, identify trends, and propose data-driven solutions to address challenges and capitalize on opportunities. Maintain strict adherence to compliance standards, deadlines, and industry best practices while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
The position entails overseeing and executing duties related to the following key areas:
Offering executive leadership and governance to ensure effective project execution across partnering conservancies.
Ensuring adherence to carbon standards, Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) systems, safeguards, verification protocols, and Kenya’s carbon market regulations presents a pivotal responsibility.
You will assist governance frameworks, implement Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (EPIC) protocols, manage benefit-sharing agreements, and facilitate institutional transition strategies.
Driving strategic stakeholder engagement involves collaborating with communities, governmental bodies, donors, technical collaborators, and conservation-focused stakeholders.
Responsibilities include directing financial operations, implementing risk management strategies, administering grievance redress systems, and ensuring the integrity of project accountability frameworks.
We facilitate cohesive collaboration between carbon finance initiatives, rangeland restoration efforts, biodiversity conservation strategies, and the economic well-being of local communities.
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field is required, along with a minimum of five years of progressive experience in software development. Proficiency in multiple programming languages, including but not limited to Java, Python, or C++, is essential. Demonstrated expertise in full-stack development, cloud computing, and DevOps practices is highly preferred. Strong problem-solving abilities, excellent communication skills, and a proven track record of delivering high-quality solutions are mandatory. Familiarity with agile methodologies and experience collaborating in cross-functional teams are necessary.
Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in the designated qualifications and essential criteria outlined for consideration.
A postgraduate qualification is required in a field such as environmental management, climate change, natural resource management, governance, law, economics, business administration, sustainable development, social sciences, or an equivalent discipline.
With a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible senior leadership experience in conservation, climate finance, community development, natural resource management, or large-scale program management, candidates will demonstrate a proven track record of success.
Proven expertise in overseeing intricate multi-stakeholder initiatives that engage communities, governmental bodies, funding institutions, technical collaborators, and private sector entities is required.
Proficiency in carbon projects, Measurement, Reporting, and Verification (MRV), verification processes, Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (EPIC), safeguards, benefit-sharing mechanisms, or climate finance represents a valuable asset for this role.
Proficiency is required in collaborating with community institutions, conservancy governance frameworks, customary leadership structures, and county or national government entities across northern Kenya.
Demonstrated proficiency in critical competencies, including strategic thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, is essential. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical abilities, adaptability to changing environments, and a commitment to delivering measurable results. Leadership experience is required to guide teams and drive organizational objectives forward. Additionally, exceptional organizational skills and the capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced setting are necessary. Familiarity with industry-specific tools and technologies, along with a dedication to continuous professional development, will be advantageous.
The preferred applicant must exhibit:
Accomplished strategic leadership coupled with exceptional stakeholder management capabilities.
Proficient knowledge of carbon market mechanisms, rangeland management regulations, and community-led conservation initiatives is required.
Effective communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills are essential for this role.
Financial oversight responsibilities encompass the comprehensive monitoring and strategic evaluation of fiscal activities, ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and organizational objectives. Additionally, the role demands a robust capacity for risk management, involving the identification, assessment, and mitigation of potential financial threats to safeguard institutional assets and optimize long-term sustainability.
Proficient in navigating intricate operational landscapes characterized by rigorous oversight and demanding conditions.
Interested and qualified applicants must submit their application package, which should include a cover letter, a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae outlining relevant experience, academic and professional certificates, a copy of their ID card, testimonials, a daytime telephone number, email address, and the names of three professional referees. All application materials must be sent by 5:00 PM on Monday, June 8, 2026, to the following address: Email: recruit@nrt-kenya.org.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
10 years
