applications for the position of Executive Director at the MNS Secretariat in Kuala Lumpur.

Dear MNS Kuching Branch members,

Please see attached files for the call for applications for the position of Executive Director at the MNS Secretariat in Kuala Lumpur. Deadline for applications is 15 April 2010; details in the attached.

Please direct all questions to the Ms Maye Yap, Head of Services at the MNS Secretariat. Maye can be reached at: hod.services@mns.org.my

Regards

Rebecca D'Cruz 

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE MALAYSIAN NATURE SOCIETY

Malaysia’s oldest and largest non‐governmental membership‐based nature conservation organisation, with approximately 4,000 members, is seeking an individual who is passionate about nature and preferably knowledgeable about the environment to lead the organization’s Secretariat:

1. MNS Executive Director

The Executive Director (ED) is the highest level administrative and managerial position in the organization. The role of the Executive Director is to act on behalf of the MNS members to further the mission and goals of the organization. This position reports to Council (with several direct and indirect stakeholders).

Responsibilities:

Program development and administration:

a. to ensure consistent and timely progress towards the implementation of MNS’s long‐term strategic plan;

b. to oversee the execution of strategic and policy initiatives authorized by the MNS Council and Board of Trustees;

c. to provide leadership and strategic direction in the management and administration of the MNS Secretariat ensuring synergy through the cohesive efforts of all divisions;

d. to develop programme / project proposals, organizational and financial plans consistent with the strategies approved by the MNS Council and Board of Trustees;

e. to raise funds for the organization, and to ensure compliance with donor and partner requirements;

f. to ensure an efficient technology‐assisted system of business and work flow processes that will promote collaboration, cooperation and knowledge access.

g. to sustain the independence, objectivity and integrity of MNS and its programmes;

Communications:
 h. to actively engage with all levels of the organization including the Board of

Trustees, MNS Council, Branches and members;

i. to represent the organization effectively externally, so as to promote MNS’s demonstrated successes, and to advocate for improved nature conservation outcomes;

j. to establish sound working relationships and cooperative arrangements with government institutions, non‐governmental organizations, academic institutions, media, donors and international partners.

Staffing:

k. to be responsible for the recruitment, employment and release of all MNS Secretariat personnel, both paid and volunteers;

l. to ensure that job descriptions are developed, that regular performance evaluations are held, and that sound human resource practices are in place;

m. toensurethataneffectivemanagementteam,withappropriateprovisionfor succession, is in place;

n. to encourage staff development and education, and assist programme staff in relating their specialized work to the total programme of the organization;

o. to maintain a climate that attracts, keeps and motivates a diverse staff of top quality people.

The MNS Executive Director is expected to have:

1. A working knowledge of nature conservation and environmental issues, with preferably an advanced degree or proven experience in a field related to nature conservation and/or sustainable development;

2. A successful track record of at least five years of managing projects/programmes, staff, resources and fiduciary responsibilities;

3. Good interpersonal skills, with proven ability to lead and direct a diverse work force dealing with complex and sometimes sensitive issues;

4. Ability to work effectively and sensitively with a very wide range of stakeholders, including community‐based groups, civil society, international organizations, and government agencies.

5. Excellent written and oral communication skills with the ability to present complex and difficult issues clearly and concisely.

Working for Malaysian Nature Society is more than just a job, it’s a passion. Your duties will allow you to contribute directly towards the conservation of our natural heritage. If you draw satisfaction in knowing you’ve done something for nature, please send in a cover letter and CV with three contactable references (n.r.) not later than 15 April 2010 to:

Head of Services Malaysian Nature Society
 JKR 641 Jalan Kelantan Bukit Persekutuan 
50480 Kuala Lumpur
 Email: hod.services@mns.org.my

(Only shortlisted candidates will be notified)