Fisheries Science & Policy Lead

Job Title: Fisheries Science and Policy Lead
Employer: Cornish Fish Producers Organisation (CFPO)
Location: Newlyn (with travel across the UK and occasional international travel)
Contract: Fixed-term, 24 months (3-month probation period), with potential extension
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience
Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week
Reports to: CFPO CEO and the Cornwall Fisheries Science Board

About the CFPO & CFSB:

The Cornish Fish Producers Organisation (CFPO) represents one of the most diverse and sustainable fishing fleets in Europe. We support more than 175 member vessels landing over 50 species of fish and shellfish each year — from small, single-handed cove boats to large beam trawlers. Our members are responsible for around 80% of the volume and value of seafood landed into Cornwall annually.

The CFPO works closely with government, regulators, scientists, and stakeholders to champion responsible fishing, ensure sustainable resource management, and secure a viable future for fishing communities.

Recognising the opportunity to shape a new era of fisheries management following the UK Fisheries Act 2020, the CFPO initiated the setup of the Cornwall Fisheries Science Board (CFSB), which is a formal partnership between the fishing industry and fisheries scientists. The Cornwall Fisheries Science Board (CFSB) exists to support the sustainable management of Cornwall’s fisheries through science-led advice, research coordination, and stakeholder engagement. The Board will act as a forum for collaboration between fishers, scientists, regulators, and the wider community. Outcomes of the CFSB work will be used to support evidence-based decision-making, ensuring it informs policy and management at local, national and international levels.

Role Overview:

This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role at the intersection of fisheries science, policy and industry. The successful candidate will coordinate and drive the work of the Cornwall Fisheries Science Board, supporting the CFPO’s strategic priorities, informing fisheries management plans (FMPs), and engaging directly with national and international science and policy processes including ICES advice and annual EU UK fisheries negotiations. Reporting to the CFPO CEO and the Cornish Fisheries Science Board, the post holder will work closely with the CFPO membership and Cornwall Fisheries Science Board members to further the industry’s aims.

More information about this role

Key Responsibilities:

Lead CFSB Delivery

Work with CFSB members to implement strategic priorities and manage multiple collaborative science projects.
Provide secretariat functions for CFSB, including scheduling meetings, preparing papers, coordinating actions, and reporting on progress.

Science–Policy Interface

Support CFPO engagement with existing and emerging Fisheries Management Plans (FMPs), ensuring member priorities are represented and evidence informs policy.
Engage with ICES annual advice, TAC negotiations, and other relevant science–policy forums.

Strategic Development

Contribute to the future direction of CFSB and CFPO science–policy work.
Identify and develop research projects that support CFPO and CFSB objectives.
Secure and manage external funding opportunities.

Stakeholder Engagement

Build and maintain strong relationships with fishermen, scientists, regulators, NGOs, and other partners.
Facilitate interaction between inshore and offshore fleet segments and gear types.
Represent CFPO/CFSB at relevant meetings and events regionally, nationally and internationally.

Policy & Advocacy

Monitor relevant consultations and policy developments, providing timely briefings and coordinated responses.
Develop clear, evidence-based policy advice and communications.
Work with the CFPO communications team to amplify CFSB outputs.

Collaboration & Partnerships

Engage with other POs, fishermen’s associations, research institutions, and stakeholder groups across the South West and beyond.
Promote collaborative, science-led approaches to fisheries management.

Essential Skills & Experience:

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, stakeholders, and priorities.
Experience in building partnerships and working collaboratively with diverse groups.
Proven experience in marine science, fisheries management or policy (ideally UK-focused).
Understanding of the fisheries management framework
Strong analytical skills and ability to translate complex science into practical policy advice.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Degree-level qualification in a relevant field (e.g., marine science, environmental management, fisheries policy).
A genuine interest in seafood, sustainability, and coastal communities.

Desirable Skills:

First-hand understanding of the fishing industry and seafood supply chains.
Experience facilitating workshops or events with industry and scientific audiences.
Knowledge of funding mechanisms to support research and innovation.
Experience working with NGOs, producer organisations, or industry–science partnerships.
Experience with procurement and contracts.

Personal Attributes:

Confident and proactive communicator
Diplomatic and collaborative approach
Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
Adaptable, pragmatic and able to work in a dynamic policy environment
Self-motivated and able to work independently and as part of a team

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter to chris@cfpo.org.uk

Deadline: 17th November 09:00 BST

For more information, please contact chris@cfpo.org.uk