Director - Fisheries, Oceans and Biodiversity Conservation

Role summary:

EBCD is seeking an experienced and visionary Director to lead the organisation in Brussels and steer its strategic direction. The Director will manage EBCD’s operations and programs, represent its values and positions at the highest policy levels, and ensure its continued relevance and financial sustainability. The ideal candidate will bring in-depth knowledge of fisheries and ocean governance policies, a strong grasp of EU and international processes, and proven leadership in building partnerships and mobilizing resources.

Key responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Implement EBCD’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with its mission and evolving global sustainability priorities.
• Organizational Management: Lead and manage the team, supervise staff and consultants, manage budget, and ensure sound governance and reporting practices, report regularly to the EBCD Board, supporting its oversight and decision-making role.
• Representation & Advocacy: Represent EBCD in EU institutions, UN processes, and relevant international bodies;
• Project Management: Oversee the coordination, and delivery of EBCD’s projects, events, and expert networks, ensuring quality and impact.
• Partnership Development: Maintain and expand collaborations with key partners and networks, including European and international institutions, NGOs, academia, and the private sector.
• Fundraising & Resource Mobilization: Develop funding strategies, lead proposal development, and cultivate donor and member relationships.
• Communication & Outreach: Guide EBCD’s communication strategy to strengthen visibility, engagement, and influence.

Qualifications and experiences:

• Demonstrated leadership and organizational management experience;
• Proven track record in fundraising, project development, and partnership building;
• Good representation, negotiation, and communication skills;
• Solid understanding of EU decision-making processes, as well as relevant international institutions and frameworks (e.g., UN, CBD, FAO, BBNJ, CITES);
• Fluency in English and proficiency in at least one additional main EU language (French or Spanish preferred);
• Extensive network of professional relationships in the sustainability and conservation community. Contacts in development are also a plus;
• Advanced knowledge and professional experience in fisheries, ocean and environmental policies both in the EU and internationally.

Next steps:

Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV and cover letter, outlining their motivation and relevant experience to EBCD Director Ms. Despina Symons at ebcd.info@ebcd.org. Application deadline: 6 February 2026.