Position NO.: EXHS.004

1. ABOUT OPIC

The Oil Palm Industry Corporation (OPIC) is a state agency responsible for supporting and promoting the development of the oil palm industry in Papua New Guinea. OPIC works in partnership with oil palm growers, industry stakeholders, local communities, and relevant government agencies to promote a productive, sustainable, and environmentally responsible oil palm industry.

OPIC invites applications from suitably qualified, experienced, and motivated individuals for the position of Manager – Sustainability based at its Head Office in Port Moresby.

2. PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

The Manager – Sustainability is responsible for leading and coordinating OPIC’s sustainability programs, projects, and community engagement initiatives. The position promotes environmentally responsible oil palm production, harmonious relationships with local communities, and the adoption of Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) standards and practices.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• The successful applicant will be responsible for:
• Reviewing and analysing policies, procedures, and operational processes to identify improvements in sustainability, environmental management, RSPO standards, and community affairs.
• Providing leadership, technical advice, direction, and support to OPIC project staff on sustainability and community-related matters.
• Developing and delivering internal training and capacity-building programs to enhance staff knowledge and performance.
• Leading the development and implementation of annual work plans and budgets in alignment with OPIC’s Corporate Plan, Vision, Mission, and Management Action Plan.
• Monitoring and evaluating sustainability programs and projects to ensure that planned targets and objectives are achieved.
• Coordinating with project staff and participating in management meetings, field days, seminars, demonstrations, and stakeholder conferences as required.
• Preparing and submitting regular reports, recommendations, and progress updates to the General Secretary.
• Building and maintaining effective relationships with oil palm growers, farming communities, oil palm companies, government agencies, development partners, and environmental organisations.
• Representing OPIC in sustainability and community affairs engagements as delegated by the General Secretary.
• Performing other relevant duties as directed by the General Secretary.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• A bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Environmental Science, Economics, or another relevant discipline from a recognised university or tertiary institution.
• At least five (5) years of relevant professional experience, preferably in a management or senior technical role within a large organisation.
• A postgraduate qualification in a relevant field will be an advantage.
• Experience in sustainability programs, environmental management, community development, stakeholder engagement, or RSPO standards and practices.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, budget preparation, work-plan implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
• Proven ability to lead teams, build staff capacity, and manage stakeholder relationships.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Strong leadership, management, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Sound knowledge of strategic planning, policy analysis, development, and implementation.
• Ability to lead change and manage teams with diverse skills and experience.
• Strong stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and relationship-management skills.
• Knowledge of environmental sustainability, community affairs, and sustainable palm oil production.
• Familiarity with relevant Papua New Guinea legislation and policies, including the OPIC Act 1992, Public Services (Management) Act 1995, Public Finances (Management) Act 1995, applicable Public Service General Orders, and other relevant regulations.

REPORTING AND WORKING RELATIONSHIPS

The position reports directly to the General Secretary and works closely with OPIC Head Office management, project staff, and other relevant internal stakeholders.

The Manager will also engage with oil palm growers and farming communities, oil palm companies, the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority, the Department of Lands and Physical Planning, relevant government agencies, and other industry partners.

Interested applicants should submit the following documents:

• A cover letter expressing interest in the position.
• An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Copies of relevant academic qualifications and professional certificates.
• Contact details of at least three (3) professional referees, including the current or most recent supervisor.
• Current Medical Certificate
• Current Police Certificate

APPLICATION SUBMISSION

Interested applicants should submit their application by email or post using the details below.

Email: [email protected]

Attention: The Manager, Human Resources

Email Subject: Application – Manager, Sustainability & Community Affairs

Postal Address:

PNG Oil Palm Industry Corporation
P.O. Box 73
Kennedy Estate
Port Moresby, NCD
Papua New Guinea

Closing Date: 10 November 2026

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.