Marine Conservation Policy Advisor Job Vacancy in Elmina, Ghana – Environmental Policy and Marine Conservation

Job Description

Position: Marine Conservation Policy Advisor

Company: World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Ghana

Location: Elmina, Central Region, Ghana

Experience: Minimum 7 years in environmental policy, marine conservation, or related field with at least 3 years in a leadership or advisory role

Education: Master’s degree in Environmental Policy, Marine Affairs, Environmental Law, Natural Resource Management, or related field. PhD preferred.

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Environmental Policy and Marine Conservation

Department: Policy and Advocacy

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Ghana is part of the world’s leading conservation organization, working in nearly 100 countries to conserve nature and reduce the most pressing threats to the diversity of life on Earth. Our mission in Ghana focuses on protecting the country’s rich biodiversity, promoting sustainable use of natural resources, and addressing climate change impacts. With a strong presence in coastal communities, WWF Ghana implements innovative marine conservation programs that balance ecological protection with community livelihoods. We work closely with government agencies, local communities, research institutions, and international partners to develop science-based policies that protect Ghana’s marine ecosystems while supporting sustainable development. Our team of dedicated professionals brings together expertise in conservation science, policy development, community engagement, and sustainable resource management to create lasting solutions for Ghana’s environmental challenges.

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Marine Conservation Policy Advisor to lead our policy initiatives aimed at protecting Ghana’s marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable ocean governance. This senior role will involve developing and advocating for evidence-based marine conservation policies, building strategic partnerships with government agencies and stakeholders, and providing technical guidance on marine policy matters. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in shaping national marine conservation strategies, influencing policy decisions, and ensuring that Ghana’s marine resources are managed sustainably for future generations. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to meaningful conservation outcomes while working with a dynamic team of professionals dedicated to protecting Ghana’s marine biodiversity. For more Ghana Jobs and career opportunities in Ghana, visit our partner portal.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive marine conservation policy strategies aligned with WWF’s global conservation goals and Ghana’s national development priorities
• Provide technical expertise and policy advice to government agencies, particularly the Fisheries Commission, Environmental Protection Agency, and Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation
• Conduct policy analysis and research on marine conservation issues, including marine protected areas, sustainable fisheries, coastal zone management, and climate change adaptation
• Lead advocacy efforts to influence national and regional marine conservation policies, regulations, and legislation
• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with government institutions, research organizations, civil society groups, and coastal communities
• Prepare policy briefs, position papers, and technical reports on marine conservation issues for various stakeholders
• Represent WWF Ghana in national and regional policy forums, technical working groups, and inter-agency committees related to marine conservation
• Provide capacity building support to government partners and local communities on marine policy development and implementation
• Monitor policy developments and trends in marine conservation at national, regional, and global levels
• Coordinate with WWF’s regional and global marine teams to align Ghana’s marine conservation policies with international best practices and commitments

Required Skills

• Expert knowledge of marine conservation policies, international environmental agreements, and Ghana’s environmental governance framework
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex policy documents, scientific research, and legal frameworks
• Excellent communication and advocacy skills, with proven ability to influence policy decisions and engage diverse stakeholders
• Demonstrated experience in policy analysis, development, and implementation in the environmental or marine conservation sector
• Strong project management skills with ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Proven ability to build and maintain effective partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, research institutions, and communities
• Excellent writing skills with experience preparing policy briefs, technical reports, and advocacy materials
• Strong understanding of Ghana’s coastal and marine ecosystems, fisheries management, and related socio-economic issues
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team in a dynamic environment
• Proficiency in relevant software applications for policy analysis and report preparation

Education

A Master’s degree in Environmental Policy, Marine Affairs, Environmental Law, Natural Resource Management, Ocean Governance, or a closely related field is required. A PhD in a relevant discipline is highly preferred. Additional certifications in policy analysis, environmental law, or project management will be considered advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate continuous professional development in marine conservation policy, environmental governance, or related areas.

Experience

Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in environmental policy, marine conservation, or natural resource management, with at least 3 years in a senior advisory or leadership role. Proven track record of successfully influencing policy decisions and developing marine conservation policies at national or regional levels. Experience working with government agencies, international organizations, and coastal communities in Ghana or West Africa is essential. Demonstrated experience in policy research, analysis, and advocacy related to marine conservation issues. Previous experience with donor-funded projects and international conservation organizations is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employee and dependents
• Professional development opportunities and training programs
• Retirement benefits and pension scheme
• Generous annual leave and public holidays
• Opportunities for international exposure and networking
• Support for continuous learning and skill development
• Contribution to meaningful conservation outcomes with global impact
• Collaborative and supportive work environment
• Opportunities for field visits and engagement with coastal communities

Training

• Comprehensive onboarding program covering WWF’s conservation strategies and policies
• Specialized training in marine policy analysis and advocacy techniques
• Professional development opportunities in environmental governance and leadership
• Technical training on marine conservation tools and methodologies
• Cross-cultural communication and stakeholder engagement training
• Project management and monitoring and evaluation training
• Opportunities for international training and exchange programs
• Regular updates on emerging trends in marine conservation policy

Working Environment

The Marine Conservation Policy Advisor will be based in our Elmina office, with regular travel to Accra, coastal communities, and occasionally regional meetings. The position involves a combination of office-based work, field visits, and participation in policy forums and meetings. The working environment is professional, collaborative, and mission-driven, with opportunities to work with diverse stakeholders including government officials, researchers, community leaders, and international partners. The role requires flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and the ability to work under pressure to meet policy deadlines and advocacy opportunities.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a comprehensive CV and cover letter detailing their qualifications and experience relevant to this position. Applications should demonstrate specific achievements in marine conservation policy development and advocacy. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews, which may include technical assessments and presentations. The selection process will evaluate candidates based on their policy expertise, communication skills, and alignment with WWF’s conservation values. We encourage applications from qualified individuals regardless of gender, ethnicity, or disability status. For additional career resources and job vacancy in Ghana opportunities, explore our regional partners.

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Equal Opportunity Statement

WWF Ghana is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We value the unique perspectives and experiences that individuals from different backgrounds bring to our organization. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. We are committed to creating an accessible and inclusive work environment and will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. Our hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

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