VP, Ocean Conservation: Strategic Impact & Leadership

Conservation Law Foundation; Boston (MA); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) seeks a Vice President for Ocean Conservation to lead a high-impact program protecting New England’s oceans, biodiversity, and coastal communities. You will guide policy, science, and litigation efforts to restore fisheries, protect right whales, and establish marine protected areas.

Reporting to the Senior Vice President for Law & Policy, the role requires a seasoned leader with at least 10 years in ocean law, a law degree, and a track record of fundraising,

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years in ocean law and policy, with strong litigation experience preferred.
• Law degree and active bar membership in good standing in New England or eligibility for reciprocity.
• Experience applying ocean conservation statutes (e.g., Magnuson-Stevens Act, ESA, MMPA, Antiquities Act).
• Proven ability to lead teams and manage complex policy initiatives.
• Strong fundraising, financial management, and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion across campaigns and teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and implement the vision and strategy for CLF’s Ocean conservation work.
• Engage in inclusive management of a 10+ member team and partners.
• Develop partnerships with communities and stakeholders most affected by issues.
• Collaborate with development to secure funding and prepare budgets/reports.
• Oversee annual program budgets and cross-team coordination.
• Represent CLF before partners, public officials, and funders.

Skills

Ocean law

Policy advocacy

Litigation

Strategic leadership

Fundraising

Stakeholder engagement

Diversity, equity, inclusion

Education

Law degree

Bar admission (New England)

Job description

Conservation Law Foundation (CLF) seeks a Vice President for Ocean Conservation to lead a high-impact program protecting New England’s oceans, biodiversity, and coastal communities. You will guide policy, science, and litigation efforts to restore fisheries, protect right whales, and establish marine protected areas.

Reporting to the Senior Vice President for Law & Policy, the role requires a seasoned leader with at least 10 years in ocean law, a law degree, and a track record of fundraising,