POSITION VACANT WORLD CONSERVATION MONITORING CENTRE HEAD, BIODIVERSITY INFORMATION MANAGEMENT WCMC, an international centre for the management and dissemination of information on biodiversity and conservation, invites applications for a NEW SENIOR POST to lead strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the capacity of countries worldwide to manage complex biodiversity information. The position reports to the Director and is based in Cambridge, England. Applicants would benefit from the following skills and experience: * Computer systems, databases and network technology applied to environmental information * User needs analysis, especially in developing countries * Management of complex interdisciplinary projects * Information systems policy development and strategic planning * Development projects and capacity building * Experience with international environmental agencies and conventions * Ability to develop teamwork and to negotiate internationally * Knowledge of biodiversity and other environmental issues * Excellent communication skills * Fluent English. Ability in French or Spanish desirable Under the general guidance of the Director, the Biodiversity Information Management Unit will provide advice and services (including technical support and training) in the optimum application of information technology to the effective management of biodiversity information, including capacity building projects, development of guidelines and standards, assembling useful meta-databases and other resource material. In addition the group will establish the strategic directions of the Centre in order to be prepared for future requirements in information management and related capacity building, particularly in the context of the Convention on Biological Diversity. At any one time, the group may be conducting several interleaved projects in the development of resource materials, design of databases and information systems for interdisciplinary data management for specific bilateral or multilateral clients, as well as conducting corporate studies and maintaining high internal standards of data management. As a first task, the Head will be responsible for building up the unit which will be made up from professionals from within the Centre, augmented by external recruitment, and for designing and implementing a cooperative network of biodiversity information centres around the world. The ideal candidate would have a degree in the natural sciences with additional qualifications in computing, and experience in implementing information systems. We need someone who can bridge between computer science and biological science. This is a position for someone who has many years of experience in the international development and NGO community, is available to travel frequently and can work in a team environment with other Heads, the Director, and partner agencies. Founded by its three sponsoring partners, IUCN, WWF and UNEP, the Centre is a non-profit charity with an international mandate. WCMC aims to be an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the international community. Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, plus excellent benefits package. A copy of the post description will be sent on request. Applications with full CV and the names of two referees should be sent to: The Personnel Officer World Conservation Monitoring Centre 219 Huntingdon Rd, Cambridge, UK Tel: 44 (0)223 277314 Fax: 44 (0)223 277136 Email: [log in to unmask] Closing date for applications: 9 September, 1994