Non-Executive Director

Institution The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds
(SANCCOB NPC)

Location Table View, Cape Town

Job Title
Non-Executive Director

Closing Date 31 January 2026

Starting Date 01 March 2026

Time Commitment This is a non-executive, voluntary role. Board members are expected to attend
approximately four Board meetings per year, participate in appropriate Board
committees, and allocate sufficient time to prepare for meetings and
contribute to strategic discussions, as required.

Travel Requirements Limited travel may be required to attend Board meetings, strategic sessions, or
key organisational events. Meetings may be held in person or virtually.

SANCCOB (Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds) is a globally recognised seabird conservation organisation, dedicated to conserving southern Africa’s vulnerable seabird species,
with a special focus on the Critically Endangered African Penguin.

Since 1968, SANCCOB has performed hands-on seabird rescue and rehabilitation, returning thousands of seabirds to the wild. In more recent years, it has combined this speciality with scientific research, in-situ work, emergency preparedness and response, advocacy, and environmental education.

Mission To conserve seabirds, the African Penguin being the flagship species of focus, and, upon identification thereof, other complementary marine species.

Vision Building a future where seabirds and people live together in ecological sustainability.

Values Dedication. Collaboration. Integrity.

SANCCOB NPC is seeking to appoint an experienced and visionary Non-Executive Director to join its Board of Directors. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the advancement and growth, strategic direction, and governance of a globally respected organisation at the forefront of seabird conservation in southern Africa. The position is open to South African citizens and permanent residents residing in South Africa, with preference given to individuals based in the Western Cape.

As a voluntary member of SANCCOB’s Board, you will contribute expertise to guide SANCCOB’s long-term sustainability, strategic oversight, and effective governance.

• Provide strategic leadership, guidance, and oversight of strategic direction, at a governance level.
• Identify opportunities for expansion, partnerships, and innovation, to advance the mission.
• Act as an ambassador for the organisation with external partners and stakeholders, and connecting, building and maintaining relationships with donors, partners, and community leaders to strengthen impact.
• Interpret market trends, financial reports, and organisational performance to support sustainable
  growth.
• Ensure robust risk management, fiduciary and legal compliance, and organisational accountability.
• Uphold transparent, ethical, and effective governance practices.
• Actively collaborate with and provide strategic support to the Chief Executive Officer in achieving organisational goals, ensuring alignment between Board decisions and executive leadership.
• Participate in Board meetings, committees and key strategic deliberations.

• Board experience, preferably within the non-profit space.
• Experience in the following areas: advancing organisations, effective strategic oversight, expanding partnerships and fundraising, including revenue-diversification strategies, donor engagement and capital campaigns.
• Strong understanding of non-profit governance principles and regulatory requirements.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to provide independent, ethical judgement at Board level.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with fellow Directors and to support the Chief Executive Officer.
• Demonstrated commitment to conservation values and stewardship.
• Commitment to upholding high standards of transparency, inclusivity and ethical conduct.
• A strong interest in and alignment with SANCCOB’s mission, vision, and values is essential.

This role offers the opportunity to play a meaningful role in one of the most critical conservation efforts in…