Oceana is hiring a Policy Specialist

Reports to: Campaign Director

Location: Remote (Brussels)

Duration: Fixed term – 1 year

N.B. Applications will be assessed upon receipt; we therefore encourage early submission.

Due to the high volume of applications received, ONLY successful candidates will be contacted.

Oceana is seeking a Policy Specialist to join its campaign team, with a focus on the protection of marine habitats in Europe. Under the supervision of the Campaign Director, the Policy Advisor will ensure Oceana´s campaigns are aligned to Oceana’s strategy for the best conservation of the marine resources and areas in Europe. The Policy Advisor will collaborate cross-functionally with other teams within the organization and specifically with Communications experts, and will liaise with relevant policy makers, scientists, private sector and other key stakeholders. As a member of the Campaign team, this position will be tasked with special projects as needed.

This position will report to the Campaign Director based in Brussels. This role is fixed term for 12 months and the successful candidate must be based in Brussels, Belgium with regular travel in Europe.

Responsibilities:

• Monitor policy developments relevant to marine conservation, including fisheries, biodiversity, and climate-related ocean policy.

• Conduct targeted policy research and analysis to support campaign positions and advance campaign objectives.

• Assess legal and institutional frameworks and provide technical input to strengthen Oceana’s policy recommendations in Europe.

• Prepare and deliver briefings, factsheets, presentations, and other advocacy materials for policymakers, partners, and internal use.

• Advocate government representatives to ensure that ambitious marine policies are adopted and implemented, pursuant to Oceana’s campaign goals.

• Support advocacy efforts by participating in relevant processes, including stakeholder meetings, consultations, and relevant events.

• Help coordinate alliances and relationships with partner NGOs, coalitions, and civil society networks.

• Contribute to the planning and implementation of campaigns by assisting with timelines, deliverables, and internal coordination.

• Support the tracking of campaign outcomes and contribute to internal and donor reporting as needed.

• Assist in preparing content for funding proposals and grant reports, working closely with the Development team.

• Liaise with science, communications, and legal colleagues to ensure accuracy and consistency of policy positions.

• Ensure alignment between policy activities and broader organisational goals within Oceana in Europe.

• Contribute to public-facing content related to policy developments, including blogs, social media, and website updates.

• Represent Oceana in technical or advisory meetings, under the guidance of the senior policy team.

• Collaborate with other team members across the organisation on projects that help achieve Oceana’s goals and objectives.

• Carry out other duties requested by the Campaign Director, and which are deemed necessary.

Qualifications:

Education and work experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in politics, economic research, international relations, policy studies or a related field.

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience, working on development policy or advocacy in an NGO, “think tank,” institution or government.

• Experience in an international non-profit preferred.

• Proficiency in working well under pressure and prioritising several ongoing projects.

• Strong political judgement and understanding of the political environment and relevant parliamentary and policy processes.

• A demonstrable understanding of the links between advocacy, policymaking, legislation, and implementation of programs.

• Strong interpersonal and negotiations skills – specifically the ability to navigate collaborative work environments with diverse partners where you must be able to work through conflict.

• Results-driven, a drive to win, capable of drafting solid campaign/s plan/sand then making them actionable and profitable.

• Communication and relationship building.

• Ability to approach problems with a sense of ownership, enthusiasm and innovation.

• Proactively seeks out solutions to challenges and is responsive and flexible in managing a high paced, fast-changing environment.

• Self-starter able to effectively take initiative, work independently, stay calm under pressure and complete tasks in a timely manner.

• Ability to communicate effectively and appropriate with a wide range of people both verbally and in writing.

• Strong commitment to nature and ocean conservation.

• Legal Eligibility to work in Belgium without sponsorship

Competencies:

Action Oriented: Makes things happen. Takes on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.

Instils Trust: Can gain the confidence and trust of others by demonstrating honesty and authenticity, acting with integrity, being consistent and credible.

Oceana is an equal opportunity employer and proud to provide equal employment opportunity to all job seekers. We are actively committed to ensuring that no individual is discriminated against on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Please submit your application by July 25, 2025.