The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges to create a world where people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our Mission and guided by our Values, which include a Commitment to Diversity and Respect for People, Communities, and Cultures. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want better insight into TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube or o.

Our goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our Mission by hiring and engaging a diverse workforce that reflects the communities in which we work. In addition to the requirements in our postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job. Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is a key to innovation and a culture of inclusion! Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote myriad TNC staff members, “you’ll join for our mission, and you’ll stay for our people.

Since establishing the Africa Program in 2007, The Nature Conservancy’s vision has been to foster a sustainable future for people and nature, partnering with indigenous communities across 55 million acres on the continent. Our efforts are firmly rooted in people, leveraging scientific and technical expertise as we collaborate with governments and organizations to conserve and enhance Africa’s shared resources in the nine countries we operate.

TNC’s work in Africa transcends three key pillars: securing ownership rights to lands and resources for indigenous people, strengthening leadership and resource management, and helping communities value nature through a holistic appreciation of its benefits while increasing revenue streams for conservation efforts and socio-economic development. Together with our partners, we are witnessing critical milestones in integrated land and fisheries management, ocean and source water protection, energy development, and sustainable food production working together and strengthening our resolve in tackling global challenges such as climate change, habitat and biodiversity loss that stands to impact the nearly 1.4 billion people that share Africa adversely.

The Contract Specialist will work as part of a larger operations team, serving as a focal person to provide overall contract review, guidance, and training alongside the legal team to operations and program managers in preparation for contracts in the region. They will execute the BUs contracts compliance, including their approvals. This position will be based in Libreville, Gabon, and report to Operations Manager, Africa region.

The Contracts Specialist will support the strategic priorities of the Africa region through efficient oversight of Gabon contracts while providing excellent customer service to project managers. They will collaborate with the Legal team to support staff to terminate contracts with favorable terms and provide guidance related to administrative and contractual requirements based on extensive knowledge of policies and procedures to staff across Africa. 

• Develop and implement new initiatives to ensure the Africa region’s contractual goals and strategies are achieved.
• Prepare contractual agreements using current research methods and knowledge of a client’s (program or departmental) needs and ability to fulfill its requirements
• Ensure programmatic commitments, Conservancy policies and procedures, GAAP, and legal requirements are met and managed for compliance. Decisions may bind the organization financially or legally
• Collaborate with Grants Specialists on managing public awards and with the region’s legal representatives on matters of heightened complexity or risk
• Ensure contracted vendors obtain and possess required insurance coverage and that appropriate documentation is obtained and maintained
• Maintain contract tracker to ensure all contracts are up to date and alert program managers on expiry dates so that amendments can be done promptly
• Collaborate with the legal team to maintain contract templates, guidance, and training materials and ensure effective distribution thereof to regional staff
• Self-monitor progress according to the schedule of completion to submit drafts and documents promptly
• Proofread, edit, and fact-check legal documents for accuracy and consistency, according to a style guide if provided by the client
• Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Manage and review the contractor’s invoice and deliverables before processing.