Director, Science and Marine Governance

About the role

The Director of Science and Marine Governance leads Rare’s science team, shaping research, marine spatial planning, and fisheries program design across multiple countries. This senior position reports to the Senior Director for Program Implementation and Shared Services and works closely with national and local partners.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the science team, including budgeting, donor reporting, and personnel oversight.
• Serve as the primary scientific authority for marine spatial design and fisheries program development.
• Represent Rare and build relationships with academic institutions, government agencies, and community groups.
• Develop and execute the research agenda, publish findings, and present at conferences.
• Lead the Science Team’s contribution to the Fish Forever Scale Strategy and the Applied Science Community of Practice.
• Drive team performance through goal setting, evaluations, feedback, and professional development.
• Oversee project execution, ensuring timelines, scope, and resources are aligned.

Required profile

• Master’s degree or PhD in Fisheries, Marine Biology, Social Sciences, or related fields (population dynamics preferred).
• Proven experience in marine spatial planning, governance, and community‑based data collection.
• Demonstrated ability in training, capacity building, and cross‑team collaboration.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and willingness to travel up to 50% of the time.
• Experience in team leadership, program design, and budget management.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Required skills

• Marine spatial planning
• Fisheries population dynamics
• Budget management
• Donor reporting
• Project management
• Capacity building