Greg Simpson

Department

Job Title

Director and Co-founder

INSTRUCTION LANGUAGES

English

PERSONAL BIO

Greg Simpson qualified as a veterinarian in South Africa and has since worked in the United Kingdom, Central Asia and Africa. After receiving a Masters Public Health in Developing Countries, as well as a Masters in Wildlife Management, he began developing a unique training clinic for veterinary students in a resource limited community outside the Kruger National Park, South Africa.

The clinic treated all wildlife in neighbouring reserves and not only made a difference to the local community through clinical service provision, but also school learner’s education and research. This research led to a Ph.D. on brucellosis in domestic animals, wildlife and humans.

Greg Simpson has a diversity of training in veterinary science, public health and education. He has experience as a wildlife and mixed animal veterinarian, development researcher, health consultant, lecturer and project manager. He has developed a variety of initiatives in health, education and conservation. He desires to have a positive influence on conservation, animal and public health and welfare through his veterinary and management skills, while empowering others.

WORK EXPERIENCE AND AWARDS

Managing Director, Wildlife Forensic Academy, South Africa (2018-present)
Veterinary Surgeon, Grabouw Animal Clinic, South Africa (2005-present)
Lecturer, University of Pretoria, South Africa (2008-2017)
Host and Producer, Frontier Vets, South Africa (2011-2011)
Wildlife Veterinarian, Habitat Ecologique et Liberte’ des Primates, Republic of Congo (2008-2008)
Health Consultant, Health Systems Trust, South Africa (2004-2004)
Temporary Veterinary Inspector, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, United Kingdom (2001-2001)

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine, University of Namur, Belgium
Master in Philosophy in Wildlife Management, University of Pretoria, South Africa
Master in Public Health– MPH, Public Health in Developing Countries, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, U. of London, United Kingdom
Bachelor in Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa

VacancIES

Brief Introduction of the Department

The WFA has an existing Social Media and Communication Plan to create awareness around conservation and the illegal wildlife trade. At the same time this is used to attract potential course participants as well as followers on social media channels such as Instagram, Facebook and Linkedin. Posts are done by means of captions with photos and reels as well as the appropriate hashtags. The WFA also has an existing website where SEO and AI need to be used as well as updates made available as courses and events development.

Department Staff Number

Less than 5 people

Internship Job Description

Format:
‍Hybrid (Remote & On-Site) : 3 days in-office per week and 2 days remote.

Internship Overview:

Duration & Commitment: 3 months, 5-days/week, 08:00-16:00 OR 09:00-17:00.
Reporting: Interns report once or twice weekly (via email or online meeting).
Certification: Completion certificate issued upon finishing internship.
Intake: Positions available year-round, with higher volumes during summer/winter vacations.

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Role Description:
‍As a Social Media Assistant, you will help the Wildlife Forensic Academy communicate its mission and grow its digital presence. You will:

Produce content for multiple WFA social media platforms (including Xiaohongshu in Mandarin).
Interpret key performance indicators (KPIs) to guide content strategy.
Assist in updating internal policy documentation related to social media.
Work independently, showing initiative and innovation as well as strong administrative and organizational skills.
Assist with general day to day tasks at the Academy pertaining to courses as well as research projects

What You’ll Gain:

Practical experience in international digital communications.
Exposure to wildlife conservation and forensic science projects.
Making a tangible difference within the wildlife forensic field.
A completion certificate to enhance your academic or career profile.

Preferred Intern Education Level

Undergraduate students (third year and above)
Master students
Doctoral students

Preferred Intern Skill Sets or Qualities

High English proficiency (spoken and written).
Some experience or coursework in marketing, digital marketing, or communications advantageous.
Independence and ingenuity.
Proficiency and knowledge in navigating social media platforms.
Ability to analyse metrics and provide content recommendations.
Must be creative and capable of designing compelling, visually engaging materials that both reflect the academy’s identity and resonate with the Asian market.
Passion for wildlife, conservation, forensic sciences, veterinary science, and/or related fields.

Internship Period

From June 14 to September 5, 2027 (adjustable at the discretion of the organisation)

Others

The admitted student is required to do a 10-day training course which costs 2,495 Euros. This includes accommodation, transport, catering, and course content. (Course Programme)
Expected working hours per week: 40 hours
Benefits will not be provided

Brief Introduction of the Department

The WFA currently has one online module available for participants to enroll for to learn more about the history and challenges of wildlife trafficking and trade. Our team is working on expanding this to a number of modules to be accessible to anyone anywhere in the world.

Department Staff Number

Less than 5 people

Internship Job Description

Format:

Hybrid (Remote & In-Person) 3 days in-office per week and 2 daysremote.

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