Principal, Biodiversity & Habitats

About the Opportunity

Reporting to the Head of Biodiversity & Habitats. We are seeking a subject matter expert (SME) in Marine science and Ocean conservation, and permanently based in Perth, Western Australia.

The primary focus of the role will include (but not limited to):

• Providing technical advice and input on matters relating to oceans and coastal environments, within Australia and internationally.
• Collaborates with leadership to scope, develop, and successfully implement ocean conservation partnerships and large-scale, impact-driven conservation projects across a global portfolio.
• Supporting various internal deliverables as needed, including preparing and presenting reports and presentations for the Board of Directors, Executive Leadership Team (ELT), and Founders. This may involve gathering data, conducting analysis, and ensuring timely and accurate communication of key insights and recommendations.
• Reviewing proposals submitted to Natural Ecosystems and preparing briefing notes and formal submissions.
• Collaborating with stakeholders, in preparing briefing notes for internal and external audiences as well as government submissions relating to environmental issues including marine parks, development proposals with a Western Australia focus.
• Manage and develop specialised and directed research projects.
• Building and maintain trusting and effective relationships with partners at local, national and global levels. Support partner and stakeholder management across a global portfolio, helping to facilitate grant agreement, development and finalisation with grantees.
• Providing expert analysis, interpretation and partner engagement to inform decision making. In collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, generate ideas for ocean conservation projects at scale, including the creation of new marine protected areas; catalytic investments in existing marine protected areas to improve effectiveness, and trialling of innovative research to support ocean conservation.

Requirements

About You
The successful candidate will have strong analytical and reporting skills. Proven experience in both research practices and project evaluation to measure impact. Coupled with previous experience working in a fast paced environment.

• Proven and successful expertise in international and national conservation projects and evaluation, with expertise in coastal and marine research in Australia and beyond.
• Knowledge and experience in marine conservation, impactful science connected to environmental policy, including demonstrated understanding of international ocean governance mechanisms. A strong understanding of ocean conservation science leading to policy change.
• Demonstrated knowledge of related issues and understanding of the complexity and challenges associated with projects to mitigate climate change.
• Exceptional interpersonal, report/business case writing and verbal communication skills including the ability to communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders.
• Project management experience and a demonstrated ability to work effectively in diverse cultural contexts. Candidates with management consulting experience will be highly regarded.
• Post-graduate qualifications in a science-related field are required; a background in marine or environmental science is preferred.