Making a difference for the ocean

Senior Expert, Marine Environment

About the position

Making a difference for the ocean

Do you want to use your skills to strengthen capacity for sustainable ocean governance in the Global South? GRID-Arendal, a partner of the UN Environment programme, is seeking a Senior Expert to join its Marine Environment Programme.

GRID-Arendal is a small organization with big ambitions. We seek to make a bold contribution to generating transformative changes that are equitable and sustainable in societies all over the world. In linking research, data, and actions for results on the ground, GRID-Arendal holds a unique position and credibility among policy- and decision-makers at all levels. Join us in transforming environmental data into actionable insights and motivating global decision-makers to affect positive and transformative change.

You will be responsible for developing the programme portfolio of the Marine Environment Programme on sustainable ocean governance and inclusive governance. This includes developing new and managing existing projects in collaboration with a wide range of stakeholders ranging from the UN Environment programme to Government representatives, research institutions and civil society actors. Our current projects are focused in West Africa or South East Asia or have a global reach.

We are looking for someone that has relevant experience from working on marine and coastal environmental issues, a track record in project development and ideally previous experience from working with transformative change as a methodology.

Main activities

• Actively contribute to the strategic development of GRID-Arendal's Marine Environment Programme
• Develop new projects related to the marine environment - with a particular focus on sustainable and inclusive ocean governance.
• Plan and lead multiple or large-scale projects with a clear responsibility and accountability for project management
• Lead research and analysis to build a knowledge base on sustainable and inclusive ocean governance, conservation of blue forests or blue economy.
• Work closely with other staff to ensure that GRID-Arendal delivers high quality outcomes, with a particular focus on supporting developing countries to address the impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss on the oceans and coastal communities.
• Lead the development of innovative communication products, including reports, policy briefs and outreach materials, for a wide variety of stakeholders and end users.
• Build a network of new donors and external partners
• Share knowledge internally with the team, develop a strong team culture and guide and coach/mentor internal resources
• Give lectures, public presentations, publish work and develop new methods or tools recognized by partners

Professional Qualifications

• Master degree or PhD in environmental, ecological, biological, economic, technological, social, cultural, political, or behavioural sciences
• A strong multi-disciplinary or interdisciplinary expertise in one or more disciplines of natural sciences, social sciences, or the humanities
• At least six years of relevant experience on marine and coastal environmental issues
• Proven track record in project development, fundraising, implementation, and management; particularly projects related to the marine environment.
• Experience working with the UN or international environment or development programmes, and a strong professional network
• Excellent communications skills, including both written and spoken English.
• Specific knowledge, expertise, or experience from working with transformative change as a methodology would be an asset
• Knowledge of other languages, particularly French or Spanish, would be an asset.
• An understanding of the importance of communications in project development and results dissemination.

Personal skills

• Excellent team player and ability to work independently
• Strong leadership and organisational skills
• Ability to pursue multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment and consistently meet deadlines

• High motivation and energy
• Excellent networking capabilities and diplomatic skills
• Interpersonal skills and ability to work in an international and culturally diverse environment

We can offer

• A good working environment with the opportunity to be part of an interdisciplinary, challenging, creative, and ambitious research and information environment
• Work in one of Europe's leading environmental communication centres, of great social significance
• International working environment linked to the UN Environment Program and The Norwegian Development Agency (manager of grants in the field of development from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Climate and the Environment)
• Flexitime scheme, with summer and winter time
• A competitive salary based on qualifications and years of experience
• Exceptionally good pension schemes, insurance, and employee benefits
• Possibility of using the company cabin in Telemark

For more information

For more information about the position or if you have any questions, please contact Chief Culture Officer Anette Sørensen at Anette.sorensen@grida.no or Head of Programme Marine Environment Torill Sæterøy at Torill.sateroy@grida.no

We are looking forward to hearing from you.

Please send us your CV and a short cover letter in English.