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Director of Policy and Research Global Ocean Commission

University of Oxford - Somerville College

Ref: 900127

This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a new, ambitious initiative. In an effort to direct greater attention to problems affecting ocean health, while simultaneously attempting to develop and promote solutions to these problems, the Pew Environment Group, in partnership with Somerville College at the University of Oxford, the Adessium Foundation and the Oceans5 Alliance, is establishing an independent Global Ocean Commission (GOC) made up of internationally recognized leaders who will identify the main threats to the high seas and develop recommendations to address them. The GOC and this post will be based at Somerville College, Woodstock Road, Oxford. Somerville College is one of 38 independent, self-governing colleges of the University of Oxford.

The Director of Policy and Research (DPR) will develop, direct and implement the policy and research agenda of the Global Ocean Commission (GOC), leading to the formulation and release of a set of recommendations on high seas governance issues. Serving as a senior strategist on technical and policy issues, the DPR will be responsible for providing expertise, input and guidance to the Commission in support of its deliberations, and will formulate policy on all areas under consideration by the GOC within its mandate. With extensive expertise across a broad range of oceans issues and knowledge of the current policy and governance landscape, the DPR will oversee all research and policy functions within the Secretariat developing a network of experts, who will provide input to the Commission. A key deliverable and objective of this role will be to write, edit, and oversee the production of a high-quality, accessible and compelling materials including a report containing a series of clear recommendations that will be released as the final product of the Commission's work.

This is a senior role requiring extensive experience in the field of public international and environmental law, with specific expertise in the law of the sea and ocean governance, and a strong reputation in ocean-related fields. The individual in this role will have a strong background in multilateral and bilateral processes and bring strong writing, research and editing abilities plus a record of published high quality publications and policy analysis reports to the role. Must have the ability to synthesize complex issues into clearly articulated goals and arguments. She or he will have well-honed political, strategic and analytical skills, and a proven track record of working with senior stakeholders in government, corporate and civil society. The successful candidate must be flexible and results-oriented, able to manage multiple research projects in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment.

This is a fixed term post for a period of 2 years in the first instance.

The salary for this post will be a range starting from £60,000 p.a. (based on a 37.5 hour week) and is negotiable based on the commensurate level of experience of the successful candidate. A generous pension and vacation package is offered. In order to support the work of the GOC as an international organisation, flexibility in approach to working hours is essential. The post holder will be required to work some evenings and weekends, and also undertake extensive international travel.

An advanced degree in international relations, law, economics, or a related field, with extensive experience in an international institution, government, corporate sector or a non-governmental organization.

Further details and how to apply for this position are available from the College website at www.some.ox.ac.uk/GOCvacancies

The closing date for completed applications is 12 noon (UK time) on Monday 11 June 2012.

Interviews are likely to be held at Somerville College during the period between 18 and 29 June 2012.

Somerville College values equality and diversity.