Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint a Biodiversity Policy and Practice Writing Specialist to provide temporary support to SANParks. The specialist will assist in developing project-related outputs such as documents, reports, brochures, online content, and stakeholder engagement materials. The role aims to support the Park Planning and Development Unit in achieving its strategic goals, including the development of a Park Planning Strategy, documenting lessons learned from establishing new parks, and engaging communities around national parks.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Developing a Park Planning Strategy aligned with SANParks’ strategic focus.
• Documenting lessons learned in establishing the Grasslands National Park and Contract National Parks.
• Supporting community engagement efforts related to land inclusion and partnerships with emerging farmers.
• Developing content for brochures, online platforms, and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Providing copy editing and review support for strategic documents and project proposals.
• Supporting lessons learned workshops and best practice documentation for cross-sectoral groups.

The assignment is expected to span 6 months, with specific deliverables including reports, workshop proceedings, content development, and editing support.

Technical Requirements

The successful bidder must demonstrate:

• Proven experience of at least 5 years in developing conservation-related documents, reports, and brochures.
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work independently and be a self-starter.
• Understanding of South African biodiversity, protected areas, and conservation context.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and capacity to document lessons learned and best practices.
• Relevant postgraduate qualification in Conservation, Ecology, or Environmental Science.
• Willingness to travel if required.

Additional technical evaluation criteria include methodology quality, relevant experience, and examples of previous work in biodiversity or conservation projects.

Skills Requirements

The service provider should possess:

• Extensive experience in conservation writing, editing, and document development.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to think laterally and innovate in content development.
• Relationship-building skills and stakeholder engagement capacity.
• High energy levels and proactive work attitude.
• Ability to deliver outcomes within tight deadlines and over the 6-month period.