Marine Species Conservation Program Manager

The New England Aquarium (NEAq) advances animal and ocean health with a vision for a vibrant and vital ocean for future generations. The Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life (ACCOL) is a leader in marine species scientific research. The New England Aquarium is committed to using the deep technical and scientific expertise of the ACCOL to protect marine species across a range of taxonomic areas of research.

We seek a passionate seasoned ocean conservation professional with a strong record of strategic and cross-functional program implementation to serve as the Program Manager for an exciting new conservation advocacy position centered on marine species protection and responsible use of the ocean. This position will build our capacity as a thought leader in right whale and other marine species conservation by integrating outcomes-focused work that occurs across existing departments. This interdisciplinary position will leverage our science and policy expertise, harness the power of our public engagement capability, and cultivate relationships with other zoos and aquaria increasing our impact on the survival of marine species. Working closely with NEAq leadership at the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life (ACCOL) and under the supervision of the Director of Ocean Policy, the Program Manager will harmonize various individual functions by overseeing organization-wide species conservation plans. The Program Manager will also cultivate external relationships that build upon NEAq's leadership in research towards conserving marine species.

This is a full time, regular position offering a comprehensive benefits package. The typical schedule will be Monday-Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm with the option for either a fully remote or hybrid onsite/remote schedule. Availability to attend occasional meeting/events at the New England Aquarium in Boston is required. Remote days are only available for residents of MA, RI, NH, ME, NY and VT.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Scope, define, project-manage, and implement cross-functional, organized, institutional strategy and courses of action to achieve specific marine species conservation goals; manage and measure progress of these projects across all programs.
• Represent the ACCOL technical team expertise, scientific outputs and science-based perspectives to ensure they are reflected in all aspects of our marine species conservation work, including through ACCOL leadership engagement with other departments (e.g., Conservation Learning, Marketing and Communications, External Relations).
• Provide recommendations to senior leadership throughout marine species conservation policy life cycle touchpoints: track, analyze and advise on federal and state regulatory and legislative matters, linking marine species research to marine species conservation policy initiatives, and coordinating closely with the NEAq Director of Ocean Policy.
• Lead external ocean conservation initiatives and/or campaigns that NEAq elects to lead, co-lead and/or engage in.
• Represent NEAq's marine species conservation work via drafting communications materials and participating in speaking opportunities at public events, engagement with government officials, and in the media.
• Contribute to institution-wide initiatives as needed, including the development and management of cross-functional collaboration through internal working groups, task forces, and committees.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Qualifications

• Master's Degree in relevant ocean-based field of expertise or equivalent practical experience.
• Proven written and oral analytical skills that crosswalk between ocean conservation science and policy.
• Demonstrated professional experience leading ocean-based conservation campaigns/initiatives; managing and developing work in ocean-based conservation; demonstrated excellence in project management skills.
• Experience collaborating between multiple departments and external stakeholders (e.g., regulators, industry representatives, corporations, conservationists).
• Demonstrated ability to function and relate effectively in culturally diverse situations and forge inclusive relationships with a broad range of stakeholders.
• Experience in program/impact evaluation using analytics and diverse metrics.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking.
• A private, high-speed internet connection is required for remote work.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in bridging between science and policy, communications, storytelling, and being an ambassador for marine species to implement advocacy initiatives.
• Demonstrated experience building external networks, building and activating coalitions, and engaging and managing diverse stakeholders.
• Advanced degree in field of expertise.
• Specific conservation experience related to marine species.
• Ability to quickly digest and interpret technical information from scientific teams.
• Commitment to the growth and team building within the ACCOL and integration with broader NEAq.
• Bilingual abilities are a plus.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, and to travel occasionally.
• If your qualifications look different from what we've described above, but you feel your skills, knowledge, and experience match the capabilities we need, please apply!

New England Aquarium is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace and is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC. Here we foster a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusion. We strive to engage and inspire a broad audience with our efforts to protect the blue planet, and we believe a diverse workforce provides experiences, skills, and perspectives that enrich our programs, strengthen problem-solving, add creativity, and enhance our work environment.

Experience Required

Demonstrated professional experience leading ocean-based conservation campaigns/initiatives; managing and developing work in ocean-based conservation; demonstrated excellence in project management skills.