Job Description

The IWC Secretariat is seeking candidates for the position of Bycatch Mitigation Coordinator to coordinate and implement the programme of work under the IWC's Bycatch Mitigation Initiative (BMI) and to build the capacity of IWC member governments to address this important issue.

As the leading global body addressing cetacean science, conservation and management, the IWC has the capacity to play a significant role in global efforts to address bycatch and in 2016, launched the BMI. In collaboration with other organisations, national governments, and fishing communities, the BMI aims to develop, assess and promote effective bycatch prevention and mitigation measures world-wide.

The successful applicant will have a university degree or equivalent professional experience in a relevant discipline such as: Biological Sciences; Natural Resource Management; Fisheries Science; Conservation Science; and knowledge of marine conservation and fisheries management issues, institutions, and policies. They will have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, be able to engage with stakeholders from many fields and diverse cultural backgrounds, and to work in a politically sensitive environment. The postholder will have a high level of organisational skills and be fluent in English. Competence in another working language of the Commission (French or Spanish) would be advantageous.

This post is advertised as a Full-Time position (37.5 hours per week) for a fixed-term until 31 December 2026. You will be based at the IWC Secretariat Headquarters in Impington, Cambridge, UK. Overseas applications are encouraged, and the Secretariat will support the successful candidate in obtaining a UK work visa where necessary. Any costs incurred in moving to the UK would be the responsibility of the employee, but some relocation reimbursement may be available.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

Provide direct support to the IWC Standing Working Group on Bycatch in the strategic development of the Bycatch Mitigation Initiative and its programme of work

To work with the IWC Bycatch Expert Panel and to facilitate the provision of scientific and technical advice on Bycatch mitigation from the panel

To organise Expert Panel meetings and workshops on Bycatch as required

To facilitate responses to Contracting Members requesting support in addressing bycatch including through organising and delivering capacity building activities such as regional workshops and training.

In collaboration with IWC Secretariat colleagues, continue to strengthen engagement with other Intergovernmental Organisations on bycatch

In liaison with the Expert Panel and the IWC Scientific Committee, to undertake research in support of the aims of the Bycatch Mitigation Initiative

In collaboration with the Projects Coordinator, identify and pursue fundraising opportunities to support delivery of the Bycatch Mitigation Initiative

Ensure liaison between the relevant IWC subcommittees in the delivery of the Bycatch Mitigation Initiative particularly the Scientific Committee, Conservation Committee and the Whale Killing Methods and Welfare Issues Working Group

Report on their activities to the Standing Working Group on Bycatch; and facilitate reporting to other relevant IWC Committees on behalf of the BMI

Attend IWC meetings as required (including Scientific Committee and Conservation Committee meetings) and represent the IWC in other fora as needed.

Supervision as appropriate of any staff that may be hired to carry out BMI projects.

Any other tasks that may be required by the organisation that are commensurate with the job role.

Person Specification

University degree or equivalent standard qualification in a relevant discipline (e.g. biological sciences; natural resource management; fisheries science; conservation science); or equivalent professional experience

Ability to use innovative thinking in the development of new areas of work and work programmes

Ability to use own knowledge and experience to assimilate relevant information and to produce detailed reports; advice and guidance

Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders

Awareness of political issues associated with Bycatch Mitigation and the IWC and ability to work in a politically sensitive environment

Good written and oral English; and confidence in delivering written and oral presentations

Technical and specialist expertise on one or more areas relevant to Cetacean Bycatch Mitigation including fishing gear modification and deployment, various means of monitoring bycatch.

Demonstrated knowledge of the relevant stakeholders and how they address bycatch issues including relevant IGO programmes and initiatives.

Demonstrable experience in working to address Bycatch monitoring and mitigation

Demonstrable experience in the strategic development and management of work programmes and projects

Experience of managing work planning and delivering workshop events

Professional experience in working for or with stakeholders relevant to Bycatch mitigation including government; fisheries industry; local communities; NGOs; intergovernmental organisations

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 18 months

Pay: 37,153.00-41,671.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Enhanced maternity leave Free parking Life insurance On-site parking Private medical insurance
Schedule:

Flexitime Monday to Friday
Application question(s):

Do you have a university degree or equivalent standard qualification in Biological Sciences, Natural Resource Management, Fisheries Science, Conservation Science or equivalent professional experience?
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Cambridge, CB24 9ZR

Application deadline: 04/05/2025