Head of Policy

Job description

**Head of Policy and Research**

**Are you an experienced ocean leader?**

Ø Are you passionate about protecting and restoring the ocean?

Ø Do you have a strong understanding of how robust research and strong policies influences change?

Ø Are you confident producing solid policy advice and research projects to support campaigns?

Ø Do you have a good network of contacts in the NGO, fisheries, and marine sectors?

Ø Do you want to join one of the world’s most effective marine conservation organisations?

**Oceana UK**

**Oceana is dedicated to protecting and restoring the world’s oceans on a global scale. **We are a leader in science-based advocacy, and we campaign for policies to make the world’s oceans more abundant, vibrant, and biodiverse. Globally, Oceana has won more than 275 policy victories for marine life and habitats. From stopping bottom trawling in sensitive habitat areas to protecting sea turtles from commercial fishing gear, our victories represent new hope for the world's oceans.

Oceana is now focused on some of the biggest threats facing UK seas, alongside climate change. Fighting habitat destruction, stopping industrial overfishing, and preventing new offshore oil and gas developments with their inextricable link to the climate crisis.

The UK registered charity has a vision for thriving seas around the UK, using highly visible campaigns and detailed policy interventions to secure measurable changes to rebuild and maintain ocean abundance and health. Oceana UK will act as a vital public-policy interface - raising the profile of our issues through campaigns, science, communications, and expeditions, and influencing policymakers directly for commitments at key moments throughout the year.

**Job Purpose**

Oceana is looking for an experienced Head of Policy and Research to develop, implement and advise on all of our policy and research requirements in the UK. The position will be based in Oceana’s office in Paddington, London. Occasional travel will be required to meet team members and stakeholders in geographically diverse locations.

Reporting to the Campaigns Director, the Head of Policy and Research will work closely with other members of the Campaigns team ensure Oceana UK’s campaigns are scientifically robust and promoting sound policies. The role will help Oceana to carve out its niche and leadership in this complex campaigning landscape and drive forward bold policy positioning and hard-hitting research that inspire meaningful change.

**This role will be based in our Paddington, London office three days per week (Tues-Thurs) with two days home working (Mon and Fri). It reports to the Campaigns Director.**

**Role Overview**:
**Policy**:
Ø Lead on all projects relating to improvements in **UK fisheries policies** - including interpretation, analysis and engagement on existing and potential policies.

Ø Lead on all work relating to improvements in **UK marine policies** more broadly (e.g. MPAs; pollution; MSP; offshore energies) - including interpretation, analysis, and engagement on existing and potential policies.

Ø Advise on the **strategic approach** that Oceana UK takes to policy work.

Ø Respond to **government policy consultations** linked to our campaign areas (or coordinate our response with internal staff/consultants), and contribute to group responses (e.g. Wildlife & Countryside Link).

Ø Engage effectively with **government civil servants** on relevant policy matters.

Ø Engage collaboratively with policy counterparts within **NGO partners** where required.

Ø **Draft **robust, evidence-based policy positions; **advise** Senior Leadership Team on new or existing policy positions; and provide **reactive** policy advice when required.

**Research**:
Ø Lead, manage and coordinate all** research projects** for Oceana UK (including scientific, legislative and legal research) working closely with the campaigns team.

Ø Coordinate closely with wider campaigns team to understand, plan for and agree **research opportunities and needs.**

Ø Commission and manage **external researchers** where required.

Ø Advise on the **strategic approach** that Oceana UK takes to research.

Ø Engage effectively with research focused **government agencies** (e.g. JNCC, Cefas, Natural England. Marine Management Organisation).

Ø Communicate and collaborative effectively with research counterparts within other **NGOs **as required.

Ø Ensure that all research projects are managed and delivered **on time and to budget.**

Ø Provide **research input and advice** to policy and campaigning discussions.

Ø Ensure that Oceana UK’s research is **ethical, robust and peer reviewed**.

Ø **Present** Oceana UK’s research at relevant forums as required.

**Overarching**:
Ø Work closely and as part of the Leadership Team, communicating policy and research priorities and assisting organisational decision making.

Ø Help to lead the London office providing d