Project Leader - Nature & Environment Policy Plan (NEPP)

As Project Leader – Nature & Environment Policy Plan (NEPP), you will be part of the Programme & Project Management Office (PPMO) of the Public Entity Sint Eustatius (OLE). NEPP is a key programme for the island, aimed at developing and implementing policy and projects that address major challenges in the areas of nature restoration, environmental protection, and climate change. The Public Entity of Sint Eustatius (OLE) is committed to sustainable development and the preservation of the island’s unique natural environment, working to implement policies that protect biodiversity and promote responsible use of natural resources.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Project Leader to strengthen our team. The NEPP programme includes a diverse portfolio of projects, such as wastewater treatment, coral restoration, reforestation, erosion control, protection of marine and terrestrial biodiversity, monitoring of seawater quality, sustainable agriculture development, and public awareness and education campaigns related to nature and the environment.

Role Overview

As Project Leader for the Nature & Environment Policy Plan (NEPP), you will be responsible for the development, implementation, and monitoring of policies aimed at protecting and enhancing the natural environment of Sint Eustatius. You will coordinate with local stakeholders, government agencies, and international partners to ensure the successful execution of the NEPP. You will play a central role in the planning, coordination, and delivery of NEPP projects, leading multidisciplinary initiatives that address key environmental and climate-related challenges on Sint Eustatius, ensuring that projects are aligned with island policy objectives and sustainability goals. In this role, you provide clear direction to project teams, structure project activities effectively, and maintain oversight throughout the project lifecycle. You monitor progress closely, translate data and field insights into clear reporting, and ensure accountability towards the NEPP Steering Committee. Close collaboration with internal and external stakeholders is essential, particularly in relation to public communication and awareness.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of the Nature & Environment Policy Plan (NEPP).
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to align environmental policies with community needs and international standards.
• Monitor progress and report on the implementation of environmental initiatives.
• Advise the organization on best practices for sustainable development and biodiversity conservation.
• Organize and facilitate meetings, workshops, and public consultations related to the NEPP.
• Prepare policy documents, progress reports, and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Provide clear direction to project teams, structure project activities, and maintain oversight throughout the project lifecycle.
• Ensure accountability towards the NEPP Steering Committee.
• Manage contracts, ensuring compliance with agreements and proactively resolving emerging bottlenecks.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with community organisations, NGOs, and governmental bodies.
• Identify opportunities for new initiatives or improvements based on insights from the field.
• Organise training sessions and workshops to strengthen local capacity in sustainability and nature conservation.

Employment Conditions

• Temporary employment for a trial period of one year, with the prospect of permanent employment.
• Allowances: Holiday allowance of 8.33% and an end-of-year bonus of 8.33% of the annual salary.
• 168 holiday hours per year pro rata based on a 36-hour working week.
• Benefits: Inclusion in the pension fund.
• A supportive and professional working environment.
• A relocation scheme for candidates who respond from outside the island.
• An opportunity to make a significant impact on the sustainable future of Sint Eustatius.
• Professional development and growth opportunities.

Job Requirements

• Completed higher professional education (HBO) in nature, environment, or a related field.
• At least three years of relevant work experience in environmental policy, sustainability, or a comparable field, or demonstrable practical experience.
• Experience in leading environmental or sustainability-related projects.
• Knowledge of Caribbean biodiversity, sustainability, and the local context is a strong advantage.
• Experience working within or alongside a governmental or policy-driven environment is desirable.
• Proven experience in project management, preferably in environmental policy or sustainable development.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Strong organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to navigate governmental procedures, policies, and legislation effectively.
• Proactive and enterprising attitude with a strong focus on collaboration and community engagement.
• Strong leadership and coordination skills within project-based environments.
• Excellent command of both English and Dutch, spoken and written. Fluency in English is required; knowledge of Dutch is an advantage.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Passion for environmental protection and sustainable development.

About The Public Entity of Sint Eustatius (OLE)

The Public Entity of Sint Eustatius (OLE) carries out both municipal and provincial tasks on this special municipality of the Netherlands. Together with our 180 colleagues, we work towards good governance, sustainable development, and a strong community. Working at OLE means helping shape the future of a unique and resilient island.

Additional Requirements

• An assessment, case, and/or reference check may be part of the procedure. The selected candidate must provide a certificate of good conduct (VOG) and undergo medical evaluation for inclusion in the pension fund.
• The following order of preference will be applied during the selection process:
  • Employees of the Public Entity Sint Eustatius (internal)
  • Residents from or currently living on Sint Eustatius
  • Residents of the Caribbean part of the Netherlands
  • All other candidates
• A preference will be given to candidates who are locally based.