VASUNDHARA
Natural Resource Governance | Sustainable Livelihoods | Forest Rights
TEAM LEADER
Biodiversity Conservation, Governance and Climate Justice
About Vasundhara
Vasundhara is a leading non-governmental, non-profit organisation working on natural resource governance with a focus on community forest governance and sustainable forest-based livelihoods. Our work encompasses research and policy analysis, capacity building, and supporting community-based forest management systems, with a particular focus on the implementation and strengthening of the Forest Rights Act, 2006. We believe in empowering forest-dependent communities and community institutions to secure their rights and sustainably manage their natural resources.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Team Leader to lead the program on Biodiversity Conservation, Governance and Climate Justice. This is a key leadership position requiring a professional who can effectively work with the team to guide and facilitate Community Forest Resource Management initiatives, facilitate grassroots capacity building, strengthen community federations, and drive policy implementation on the ground in Odisha.
Position Team Leader - Biodiversity Conservation, Governance and Climate Justice
Location: Bhubaneswar Head Office, Odisha
Compensation :Rs 50,000 – Rs 60,000 per month
Application Deadline :02 March 2026
Key Responsibilities
1. Community Forest Rights and CFR Management
• Lead and facilitate the development and implementation of Community Forest Resource (CFR) Management Committees and CFR Management Plans for forest-protecting communities across Odisha.
• Provide technical guidance and support to the team to facilitate the federation building process as well as the communities in exercising their rights under the Forest Rights Act, 2006
• Work closely with communities to strengthen community-based forest governance structures
• Monitor and support the implementation of CFR management plans, ensuring sustainable forest management practices
2. Capacity Building and Training
• Design and facilitate comprehensive training programs on the Forest Rights Act, 2006 and related policies for the team members, community members, local government officials, and other stakeholders
• Develop training materials, curricula, and knowledge resources that are contextually appropriate and accessible to diverse audiences
• Build the capacity of CFR Management Committees in areas including governance, sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation, and climate adaptation
• Mentor and support team members, field-level facilitators and community resource persons
3. Federation Building and Networking
• Coordinate and facilitate the federation building process among forest-protecting communities across different regions in Odisha
• Support the development of collective platforms for knowledge sharing, peer learning, and advocacy among community forest rights holders
• Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with government departments, civil society organisations, research institutions, and other relevant stakeholders
• Facilitate inter-community exchange visits and learning platforms
4. Team Leadership and Management
• Lead, mentor, and manage the Biodiversity Conservation, Governance and Climate Change team, ensuring effective coordination and quality work delivery
• Develop annual work plans, budgets, and monitor progress against organisational goals and donor requirements
• Foster a collaborative and learning-oriented team culture
• Prepare quarterly, half-yearly and annual reports, documentation, and ensure timely submission of deliverables
5. Policy Engagement and Advocacy
• Engage with policy processes at state and national levels related to forest rights, biodiversity conservation, and climate change
• Represent Vasundhara and community perspectives in relevant forums, workshops, and policy dialogues
• Contribute to research, documentation, and policy analysis work of the organisation
Required Qualifications and Experience
Education
• Master's degree in Forestry, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Rural Development, Social Work, or related field
Experience
• Minimum 5-7 years of progressive experience in community-based natural resource management, forest rights, or related development sector work
• At least 3-5 years in a leadership or senior management role, preferably with a civil society organisation
• Demonstrated experience in working with forest-dependent communities and understanding of community forest governance structures
• Proven track record in facilitating capacity building programs and training sessions
• Experience in federation building, networking, and stakeholder coordination
Knowledge and Skills
• Deep understanding of the Forest Rights Act, 2006 and Amendment Rules, related policies, including PESA, and state-level forest governance frameworks
• Strong knowledge of community forest management practices, biodiversity conservation, and climate change adaptation strategies
• Excellent facilitation, training, and federation building skills
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Hindi; proficiency in Odia is highly desirable
• Strong research, analytical, report writing, and documentation skills
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team environment
• Willingness to undertake extensive field travel to remote areas
Desirable Qualifications
• Experience working specifically in Odisha and familiarity with the state's forest landscape and community dynamics
• Understanding of participatory research methodologies and policy advocacy strategies
• Knowledge of gender-responsive approaches in natural resource management
• Experience in project management, donor reporting, and budget management
We Offer
• Competitive compensation package: Rs 50,000 - Rs 60,000 per month
Women candidates are strongly encouraged to apply
Vasundhara is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following documents:
• Updated curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting relevant experience
• Cover letter (maximum 2 pages) explaining your motivation, relevant experience, and suitability for this position
• Names and contact details of at least two professional references
Please email your application to: (hr@vasundharaorissa.org)
Subject Line: Application for Team Leader - Biodiversity Conservation, Governance and Climate Justice
Application Deadline: 02 March 2026
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. We appreciate your interest in Vasundhara.