Head of Sustainable Aquaculture Development

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Private healthcare

Retirement plan

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Head of Sustainable Aquaculture Development in Durban to lead strategy, research, and deployment of environmentally responsible aquaculture projects. The role focuses on pioneering techniques, regulatory compliance, and partnerships across government, industry, and NGOs.

The successful candidate will manage multidisciplinary teams, drive innovation, and ensure commercial viability in the growing Blue Economy for KwaZulu-Natal.

Qualifications

• PhD in Aquaculture, Marine Biology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in aquaculture research, development, and management with a sustainability focus.
• Proven experience leading large-scale aquaculture projects and multidisciplinary teams.
• In-depth knowledge of aquaculture systems, species, and environmental impact assessments.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a long-term strategy for sustainable aquaculture development.
• Lead R&D efforts in technologies like RAS and IMTA.
• Establish and enforce environmental monitoring protocols.
• Manage budgets, secure funding, ensure financial viability.
• Build relationships with government agencies, research institutions, industry stakeholders, and communities.
• Oversee pilot projects and commercial-scale farms.
• Ensure compliance with national and international regulations.
• Mentor and manage a team of scientists, engineers, and PMs.
• Promote best practices in animal welfare and disease management.

Skills

Leadership

Strategy

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Research

Environmental sustainability

Education

PhD in Aquaculture or related field

Tools

MS Project

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking organization dedicated to advancing sustainable food production, is seeking a dynamic Head of Sustainable Aquaculture Development to lead initiatives in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This executive-level position is responsible for strategizing, implementing, and overseeing projects that promote environmentally responsible and economically viable aquaculture practices. The role involves pioneering new farming techniques, ensuring compliance with strict ecological standards, and fostering partnerships within the industry. This is a critical role for an individual passionate about marine conservation and innovative food systems, contributing significantly to the Blue Economy in South Africa. The candidate will drive research and development, operational efficiency, and market penetration for sustainable aquaculture products originating from the Durban, KwaZulu-Natal coastal region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a long-term strategy for sustainable aquaculture development, aligning with environmental conservation goals.
• Lead research and development efforts in innovative aquaculture technologies, including recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA).
• Establish and enforce rigorous environmental monitoring protocols to minimize ecological impact.
• Manage project budgets, secure funding through grants and partnerships, and ensure financial viability of initiatives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, research institutions, industry stakeholders, and local communities.
• Oversee the design and implementation of pilot projects and commercial-scale aquaculture farms.
• Ensure compliance with all national and international regulations pertaining to aquaculture and environmental protection.
• Mentor and manage a team of scientists, engineers, and project managers.
• Promote best practices in animal welfare and disease management within aquaculture operations.
• Represent the organization at conferences, workshops, and public forums related to sustainable aquaculture in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal .

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in Aquaculture, Marine Biology, Environmental Science, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in aquaculture research, development, and management, with a strong focus on sustainability.
• Proven experience in leading large-scale aquaculture projects and managing multidisciplinary teams.
• In-depth knowledge of various aquaculture systems, species, and environmental impact assessments.
• Demonstrated success in securing funding and managing project finances.
• Strong understanding of relevant environmental legislation and international best practices.
• Excellent strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including government, industry, and NGOs.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and relevant software.
• A passion for marine conservation and sustainable food systems, specifically within the context of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal .

Benefits

Our client provides a highly competitive executive compensation package, including a significant performance bonus, comprehensive private healthcare, and an attractive retirement plan. This role offers unparalleled opportunities for professional impact and innovation in the burgeoning field of sustainable aquaculture. Support for continuous learning through conferences, workshops, and research sabbaticals is provided. The organization offers a dynamic and collaborative work culture, fostering creativity and scientific excellence. Relocation assistance for qualified candidates moving to Durban, KwaZulu-Natal will be provided.