Education;
Master’s degree or higher in international law, law of the sea, sustainable development, environment/ocean-based science, or related fields.
At least seven years of relevant experience in project management, advocacy or policy development pertaining to marine conservation, maritime law, blue economy, or ocean governance, preferably with a focus on BBNJ.
Strong understanding of the socio-economic, cultural, and political landscape of the Western Indian Ocean region and the African continent.
Proven track record of successful stakeholder engagement and partnership building at multiple levels (local, national, regional, and international).
Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a diverse team.

Work Experience;
A thorough understanding of the BBNJ Treaty, the law of the sea, international relations and policy making in Africa.
Proven experience in ocean policy, conservation, or large-scale ocean projects.
Understanding of policy cycles and processes, especially in a national and multilateral setting.
Experience working with diverse partners, policy makers and stakeholders.
Experience in managing large-scale programmes.
Sound ability to see the big picture, think strategically, connect the dots and able to deal with complex situation and projects.
Entrepreneurial character, solution-oriented and capacity to work autonomously required.
Strong interpersonal, management and supervisory skills and experience, including working with remote implementing partners and teams.
Strong stakeholder management skills, evidence of policy engagement is key.

Language Proficiency;
Excellent verbal and communication skills in English is essential, with ability to communicate in French and/or Portuguese as an added advantage.

Core Competencies;
Transparency: Able to build trust and contribute to informed and responsible decision making by carrying out the work of IUCN in a transparent manner; provides clear guidance to ensure that objectives and desired measurable results are understood by members of the team.
Inclusiveness: Understands and accepts cultural diversity, and provide a tolerant, positive and supportive working environment that fosters respect for diversity, demonstrates ability to work in a multicultural, multiethnic environment and to maintain effective working relations with people of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds.
Professionalism: Promote the organization’s interests, objectives, and values in a diligent and professional manner.
Accountability: Takes responsibility of individual and collective actions, promotes the IUCN One Programme approach.