Director, Mesopelagic Conservation & Global Policy

The Ocean Conservancy; Washington (District of Columbia); Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work environment

Job summary

Ocean Conservancy seeks a Director of Deep Sea Conservation in Washington, DC (hybrid) to lead efforts protecting mesopelagic ecosystems and guide policy globally. You will coordinate with governments, NGOs and industry to ensure actions align with ocean health and biodiversity goals.

The role requires a strong track record in environmental policy, fiduciary oversight, and cross-sector collaboration, with a focus on strategic, evidence-based advocacy.

Qualifications

• Strategic and seasoned leader with creative, collaborative approach.
• At least 7 years in environmental advocacy, public policy or natural resource management with results.
• Experience advocating for conservation outcomes with high-level decision-makers and the public.
• Familiarity with international environmental policy instruments preferred.
• Proven ability to lead teams to achieve policy outcomes.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Leads Ocean Conservancy’s efforts to protect the ocean twilight zone.
• Advances conservation policies at international/regional levels via relevant fora.
• Elevates mesopelagic importance through representation at key fora.
• Builds strong relationships with high-level decision-makers and partners.
• Leads development and execution of work plans, budgets and proposals.
• Tracks activities and keeps stakeholders informed.
• Identifies opportunities for leadership and visibility.
• Ensures integration with other Ocean Conservancy programs.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Policy advocacy

Public speaking

Team leadership

Familiarity with biodiversity/fisherie

Diplomacy and stakeholder engagement

Communication skills

Fiduciary oversight

Policy analysis

International policy familiarity

Education

Advanced degree (law or environmental science or natural resource management)

Job description

Ocean Conservancy seeks a Director of Deep Sea Conservation in Washington, DC (hybrid) to lead efforts protecting mesopelagic ecosystems and guide policy globally. You will coordinate with governments, NGOs and industry to ensure actions align with ocean health and biodiversity goals.

The role requires a strong track record in environmental policy, fiduciary oversight, and cross-sector collaboration, with a focus on strategic, evidence-based advocacy.