John Pereira

Experience

• 

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

  Mar 2003 - Nov 2004

  Volunteer: Rehabilitation Supervisor

  As a Volunteer Supervisor at SANCCOB, I led and mentored teams in the critical work of rehabilitating sick and injured seabirds. My role was to ensure the highest standards of animal care by training volunteers, overseeing daily treatments, and maintaining meticulous health records. I was responsible for empowering volunteers to become effective caregivers, directly contributing to the successful rescue and release of thousands of sea birds.

• 

  Fransmanshoek Conservancy

  Jan 2004 - Jan 2006

  Conservancy Ranger

  As a member of the inaugural ranger team for the Fransmanshoek Conservancy, I played a foundational role in establishing one of South Africa's most successful private conservancies. Mentored by Marine and Coastal Management (MCM) and Cape Nature, I helped build the conservancy's core operational and conservation practices from the ground up. My work involved pioneering patrol routes, enforcing regulations, and building crucial community partnerships along 18.5km of vital coastline, setting the standard for all future conservation efforts in the region. Exibir menos

• 

  MABULA GAME RESERVE

  Jan 2006 - Jan 2008

  Professional Safari Guide

  As a professional Safari Guide, my core focus was twofold: ensuring the absolute safety of my guests while immersing them in the wonders of the African bush. I leveraged deep expertise in wildlife behavior and ecology to lead unforgettable expeditions. More than just a guide, I acted as an interpreter of the natural world, using storytelling to connect guests with the environment and create a memorable safari experience.

• 

  Chiawa Collection

  Jan 2008 - Jan 2009

  Camp Operations Manager & Professional Safari Guide - Old Mondoro

  As Camp Manager and Head Guide, I held full operational and financial responsibility for a luxury safari camp in the Lower Zambezi. I led all aspects of the business, from budget management and staff leadership to crafting five-star guest experiences. My hands-on approach combined strategic oversight with my passion for professional guiding, ensuring a seamless, high-end wilderness adventure grounded in a deep commitment to conservation.

• 

  Chiawa Safaris

  Jan 2010 - Jan 2010

  Deputy Camp Operations Manager & Professional Safari Guide - Chiawa

  As Assistant Camp Manager and Safari Guide, I played a dual role in delivering the award-winning Chiawa Safaris experience. I combined hands-on operational support—managing logistics and staff to ensure a seamless luxury camp environment—with my expertise as a professional guide, leading immersive safaris in the Lower Zambezi. My focus was on enriching the guest journey from start to finish, upholding our deep commitment to conservation and five-star hospitality.

• 

  Azura Retreats

  Jan 2011 - Jan 2012

  Operations Manager - Recreation & Logistics.

  As the Recreation & Activities Manager for Azura Retreats, I curated and executed world-class island experiences on Benguerra Island. My role involved designing unforgettable guest adventures—from ocean safaris to cultural excursions—while managing the complex logistics, safety protocols, and dedicated team required to deliver them seamlessly in a remote luxury setting.

• 

  Environment and Protected Areas Authority

  Jan 2012 - Jan 2023

  Played a key role in the operational launch and development of one of the largest safari parks outside of Africa. I was responsible for the integrity of the facility's infrastructure, ensuring it met world-class standards for both animal welfare and visitor experience.Operational Launch & Infrastructure Management: Supported the successful opening of the safari by managing the maintenance, daily operations, and upgrades for all infrastructure, including specialized animal habitats, visitor facilities, and technical systems.Animal Welfare & Husbandry Support: Collaborated directly with animal care teams to define, procure, and maintain essential equipment and enclosure systems, ensuring the highest standards of animal well-being.Construction & Project Oversight: Managed the execution of new exhibits and expansion projects, from design collaboration with architects to on-site construction oversight and final snagging inspections, ensuring projects were delivered to specification.Strategic Procurement: Led the sourcing and procurement of critical assets, including vehicles, specialized equipment, and operational supplies, optimizing for cost-effectiveness and operational readiness.Team & Contractor Management: Supervised and coordinated internal maintenance teams and external contractors, upholding stringent safety protocols and ensuring high-quality workmanship across all facility projects. Exibir menos Protected sensitive UAE ecosystems by conducting in-depth reviews of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for large-scale construction projects in RAMSAR wetlands and other critical habitats.Drove environmental compliance by implementing robust mitigation measures and overseeing Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMPs) in collaboration with government agencies.Led biodiversity monitoring initiatives, utilizing GIS, drone mapping, and field surveys to inform habitat management and restoration strategies for terrestrial and mangrove ecosystems.Contributed to Sharjah's strategic conservation plan by analyzing ecological data and development trends to guide sustainable land-use decisions.Pioneered educational outreach by creating engaging scientific content and designing visitor experiences for key environmental centers, such as the Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre. Exibir menos

  • Deputy Head of Operations - Sharjah Safari

    Jan 2021 - Jan 2023

  • Conservation Scientist (Ecologist)

    Jan 2012 - Jan 2021
• 

  Restorasi Ekosistem Riau (RER)

  Jan 2023 - now

  Supporting program's operational needs, infrastructure management, stakeholder collaboration, and strategic implementation of conservation and research. Overseeing Illegal Wildlife Trade Counter Strategy & SMART Patrol adoption for APRIL landscapes.

  • Head of Operations

    Jan 2025 - now

  • Deputy Head of Operations

    Jan 2023 - Jan 2025