Chief Executive Officer

The Ocean Conservation Trust exists to restore and protect the Ocean. We put people at the heart of our mission, connecting them with the Ocean as we work to protect and restore marine habitats.

We are a global ocean conservation charity working towards our vision of a healthy Ocean. Over the last 10 years, the Ocean Conservation Trust (OCT) has been transitioned from the National Marine Aquarium in Plymouth to an international ocean conservation charity, with a clear ocean conservation strategy, built around 3 core ocean programmes: Ocean Habitats Restoration, Ocean Advocacy and Ocean Experiences. 

Our core values of Positivity, Respect, Integrity, Diversity and Engagement flow through everything we do and enhance our belief in Ocean optimism and the commitment we have to employee wellbeing.

Building on the successful leadership of the OCT by Roger Maslin over the last eight years, we are seeking an outstanding leader to join us as our new Chief Executive Officer. Reporting to the Board of Trustees, you will work closely with the Senior Management Team to deliver the OCT’s current five-year Strategy and develop the organisation's next strategic plan, firmly establishing the OCT as a global ocean conservation charity. Your proven ability to develop business partnerships and secure substantial sponsorship and funding will ensure the long-term financial stability of the charity and establish it as a global authority on marine conservation.

The Chief Executive Officer will be an ambitious, passionate, and kind individual with the vision and ability to influence, inspire, and lead the delivery of our crucial objectives to promote pro-ocean change. A strong and effective people manager, you will bring a high level of emotional intelligence, the ability to listen, and significant interpersonal and relationship building skills. With a deep commitment to the mission, approach and values of the OCT, you will bring a demonstrable ability to fairly decide between competing demands for resources in the best interests of the OCT, to develop, lead and inspire teams and to foster and facilitate collaboration at local, national, and international levels, cementing the OCT as the go to authority on marine conservation matters.

You will bring a proven track record of success in leadership of complex organisations, commercial acumen, an understanding of visitor attractions, and ideally some experience in the charity sector.

As an excellent communicator, you will authentically represent our mission on global platforms and connect with stakeholders at all levels, from grassroots communities to international audiences.

With a proven track record of influencing for impact, you will leverage your experience in strategic partnerships and external ambassadorship to amplify our voice. Your passion for the Ocean and habitat conservation, coupled with an appreciation for the OCT's unique history and visitor attraction roots, will make you a compelling ambassador for our organisation.

How to Apply  

The OCT operates an Equality and Diversity Policy, and we are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community – a place where we can all be ourselves and achieve our aspirations. All applications will be judged solely on merit; however, we particularly welcome applications from groups currently underrepresented in the workforce.We are open to considering a range of organisational models for this appointment including flexible working options to accommodate diverse needs and lifestyles. Please provide details of any such models and arrangements in your cover letter.

Though the National Marine Aquarium is a key site for the OCT, the role will require travel to other locations for externally facing engagements. As such, the OCT is willing to consider a hybrid working model for the successful candidate. Support with reasonable expenses will be available if relocating to the Plymouth area.

The salary for the role is in excess of £100,000 plus benefits.

To apply, please submit a CV and covering letter, detailing how you fulfil the role description and personal specification to https://candidates.perrettlaver.com/vacancies/4214/chief_executive_officer/  quoting reference 7277. The deadline for applications is 9am BST on Monday 17^th June 2024.

For a conversation in confidence, please email Research Associate Ryann Schutt at ryann.schutt@perrettlaver.com.

Perrett Laver will conduct an executive search process in parallel with the public advertisement of the role. Longlisted candidates will be invited to interview with Perrett

Laver end of June/early July and the Selection Panel will subsequently meet to decide upon a final shortlist for the post, following which, formal interviews with the OCT will take place at the end of July. If you require any reasonable adjustments to assist you in the selection process, please advise us of these so that we can make appropriate arrangements.

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