Deputy Chief Scientist

~ Oceana, an international organization focused solely on protecting the world's oceans, is dedicated to achieving measurable change by conducting fact-based advocacy campaigns with clearly articulated goals. ~ 

Position Overview 

We are seeking a Deputy Chief Scientist to help provide that strategic leadership to our campaign teams in the countries where Oceana works.

Our campaigns are led by teams of scientists, economists, lawyers and advocates to restore and protect the ocean. Because the role of science is so important to the success of our campaigns, it is essential that our scientists have the strongest possible leadership.  

Responsibilities  

Principal Duties: 

• The Deputy Chief Scientist will work with Oceana's Chief Scientist to design campaigns that will solve critical ocean problems.
• He/she will act as a spokesperson on scientific topics to media and decision-makers.
• He/she will ensure that Oceana's policy initiatives are founded on the best and most current science, and that Oceana's technical materials are clear and compelling while remaining scientifically accurate.
• The Deputy Chief Scientist will network with leading marine scientists, seeking to engage them in Oceana's conservation agenda in a variety of ways.
• The Deputy Chief Scientist provides coaching and mentorship to the more than 20 scientists on Oceana's staff and directly supervises a staff of three.

Essential Functions: 

• Works with Oceana Vice Presidents to identify critical issues and develop the scientific framework and support for campaigns.
• Leads research to provide the scientific foundation for potential Oceana campaigns.
• Carries out analyses of critical ocean issues for potential new Oceana countries.
• Supervises Oceana's U.S. scientists and helps them accomplish campaign goals.
• Coaches and mentors scientists in other countries.
• Develops programs and activities to strengthen the global Oceana Science Team.
• Represents Oceana at external events including conferences, symposia, meetings, and hearings.
• Assists in lobbying in the U.S. Congress and meets with federal agency representatives to communicate Oceana objectives.
• Reviews reports, articles and other Oceana materials for scientific accuracy.
• Prepares information and reports for the Board of Directors, foundations and public education purposes, including writing/editing or otherwise providing the scientific basis for such reports.
• Works with Oceana's development staff to raise funds to support Oceana's mission.
• Supervises consultants, interns or fellows.
• Performs additional duties as needed and/or assigned.  

Qualifications & Requirements

Education and Work Experience:

• A PhD degree in a relevant field is required.
• At least ten years of appropriate professional experience is desired.

Skills and knowledge: 

• A track record of success in effective management in an advocacy organization, government agency, legislature, or similar policymaking organization is essential.
• Demonstrated strategic planning and budget development experience. 
• A clear understanding of the role of science in advocacy campaigns is vital.
• Must have substantial knowledge of ocean science and policy issues with proven ability to lead a professional staff, direct complex programs and influence policy.
• Experience in media relations and public speaking, plus exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent writing, editing, communication, organizational and research skills required.
• A well-developed network of professional contacts in academia, government, conservation organizations is essential.
• A strong commitment to ocean protection is required.
• Fluency in English is essential; fluency in a second language is a plus.