Senior Policy Officer, UK

Oceana is the largest international advocacy organization dedicated solely to ocean conservation. Oceana is rebuilding abundant and biodiverse oceans by winning science-based policies in countries that control one third of the world’s wild fish catch.

With over 100 victories that stop overfishing, habitat destruction, pollution and killing of threatened species like turtles and sharks, Oceana’s campaigns are delivering results.

A restored ocean means that one billion people can enjoy a healthy seafood meal, every day, forever. Together, we can save the oceans and help feed the world.

Our international team of marine scientists, economists, lawyers and advocates win specific and concrete policy changes to prevent the irreversible collapse of fish populations, marine mammals, plus other sea life and their ecosystems from overfishing, disrupting fishing practices and pollution, amongst others.

Position Summary

As Oceana embarks on a new period of growth internationally, it is looking to build a stronger presence in the United Kingdom and looking for a Senior Policy Advisor with significant expertise in influencing political decision making and a passion for marine conservation.

The Senior Policy Advisor, to be based in London, will work under the supervision of the Policy and Advocacy Director for Oceana Europe and in coordination with Oceana European Policy and Advocacy team to:

• Build, engage and maintain a network of key stakeholders and decision makers in the UK;
• Increase the awareness of marine conservation and Oceana’s work in relevant political forums;
• Define and implement strategies for successful achievement of our goals in Europe.

Major Responsibilities

Under the supervision of and close collaboration with the Policy and Advocacy Director for Oceana Europe based in Madrid:

• Develop and implement strategies to promote Oceana’s vision and goals for healthy oceans in the United Kingdom;
• Support Oceana’s Policy and Advocacy team in the achievement of the department goals;
• Represent the organization in international and national political forums and act as spokesperson with relevant media;
• Develop, engage, maintain and expand a network of key stakeholders and decision makers relevant for Oceana’s campaigns;
• Prepare briefings, position papers, policy reports and any required materials to support the successful achievement of Oceana’s goals.

Position Qualifications

Experience

At least ten years of proven experience in policy work at high level; experience in campaigning for Non-Governmental Organizations will be a plus.

Education

The ideal candidate will hold a Master´s Degree in international and/or European policy and/or economics with proven additional experience or academic background in any marine science discipline or, alternatively, marine conservation. A PhD will be a plus.

Personal Characteristics

• Strong communication skills, both written and spoken. Candidates must be fluent in written and spoken English and Spanish.
• Accomplished interpersonal and networking skills.
• Personal resilience.
• Passion for oceans and conservation.
• Willingness and ability to travel regularly.
• Be a consummate team player with a strong interest in marine environmental issues, Oceana is an international, multicultural NGO, and the position involves regular teamwork with staff from Oceana’s European offices
• Able to demonstrate diplomacy and tact at all times.

A position profile does not imply that the duties stated are the only ones to be performed by the incumbent. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instruction as requested by their manager.

Additional information

This is a full-time position – initially for a period of two years.

This position will be based in Oceana´s newly opened office in Central London.

Oceana offers a competitive annual salary commensurate with experience.

Interested applicants are requested to send a CV and cover letter to applicants-europe@oceana.org, with the Reference SPO-UK-02/18 before Monday, 5^th March.