Job Vacancies: Director

About the organisation

Founded in 1991, the Society for the Protection of Prespa (SPP) is an award-winning environmental NGO working to protect the unique natural and cultural heritage of the Prespa lakes basin while promoting sustainable development for local communities. Through science-based conservation, community engagement and transboundary co-operation across Greece, Albania and North Macedonia, the SPP has played a leading role in safeguarding globally important ecosystems and species.

About the role

The Director is the SPP’s highest-ranking employee, responsible for the organisation’s strategic, operational and financial leadership in close collaboration with the President and the General Assembly. The position is full-time and based in Agios Germanos, Prespa, Greece, with regular national and international travel as required.

The initial contract will be for two years with a six-month trial period, after the two-year period the contract becomes permanent.

How you will contribute

Strategy and Organisational Leadership

Lead the implementation of the SPP’s strategic vision, translating priorities into measurable operational plans and sustainable impact.

Financial Sustainability and Fundraising

Ensure sound financial management, budgeting and reporting, while securing funding and cultivating and maintaining strong donor and partner relationships to support the organisation’s long-term sustainability.

External Representation and Partnerships

Represent the SPP with public authorities, donors, partners, networks and stakeholders at local, national and international levels, strengthening collaboration and advancing the organisation’s mission.

People Leadership and Culture

Lead, develop and support the SPP team, fostering a collaborative, accountable and high-performing organisational culture while ensuring compliance with employment, safeguarding and health and safety requirements.

Operations and Programme Delivery

Oversee the effective implementation of programmes, organisational assets, infrastructure and land management, ensuring operational excellence and timely delivery of activities in line with approved plans and budgets.

Governance and Compliance

Maintain strong communication with the President and the General Assembly, ensure organisational transparency and accountability, and oversee compliance with internal policies, legal obligations and safeguarding standards.

Our ideal candidate must have

  • Significant senior leadership experience, including strategic planning, mission delivery, organisational development and team guidance.
  • Strong operational, financial and administrative management capabilities, with experience overseeing programmes, budgets, people and property.
  • Excellent communication, networking and stakeholder engagement skills across local, national and international contexts.
  • A proven track record in fundraising, donor relations and delivering measurable organisational or conservation impact.
  • High levels of integrity, sound judgement and resilience, with a commitment to fostering an ethical, inclusive and high-performing organisational culture.
  • Good understanding of biodiversity conservation, protected area management and climate-related challenges.
  • Experience leading organisational growth, change or transition is an advantage.
  • A relevant university degree and postgraduate qualifications.
  • Excellent written and spoken Greek and English; additional languages are an asset.

Why join us

This is a unique opportunity to lead one of Europe’s most respected environmental organisations at a critical moment for biodiversity conservation and climate resilience. Working alongside a highly committed team and an extensive network of local, national and international partners, you will help shape the future of a globally recognised conservation organisation, driving science-based and community-centred action to protect one of Europe’s most important wetland landscapes while delivering lasting benefits for both nature and local communities.

Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV and cover letter in English, highlighting what makes you a good fit for us at cvdirector@spp.gr.

Application deadline: 30th November, 2026

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.