Head of Compliance & Enforcement
Location: Office based in Poole or within the District undertaking compliance & enforcement functions
Contract type: Full-time, Permanent
Hours of work: 37 hours per week
Salary: £44,981 to £51,746 (SCP 32-38 inclusive of a 5% irregular hours allowance)
Closing date: 09:00 on 22nd June 2026
About Southern IFCA
Southern IFCA manages sustainable inshore fisheries out to six nautical miles, supporting a diverse mix of commercial and recreational fishing activity that is vital to coastal communities across Hampshire, Dorset, and the Isle of Wight. Our district also includes a network of nationally and internationally important Marine Protected Areas.
About the role
Southern IFCA are seeking an exceptional leader to head our Compliance & Enforcement function, ensuring proportionate, effective, and intelligence-led enforcement of local byelaws and national fisheries legislation.
This is a high-impact leadership role, responsible for safeguarding marine environments while supporting thriving and sustainable fishing communities. As a member of the Senior Management Team, you will play a key role in driving delivery of the Authority’s statutory duties in fisheries and marine conservation, championing exceptional standards of practice.
You will lead a skilled team of Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Officers (IFCOs) operating across the district—at sea on our fleet of fisheries protection vessels, and on land through inspections and drone patrols.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leadership & People Management
- Operational Delivery
- Enforcement & Investigations
- Working with others
- Senior Leadership Function
About you
We’re looking for a motivated and experienced leader who can bring expertise, sound judgement, and strong interpersonal skills to a complex regulatory environment.
You will have:
- Proven experience leading and developing teams
- Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders
- Experience working within policy, regulatory, or enforcement frameworks (direct or transferable)
- The ability to interpret and apply legislation in operational contexts
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach with strong decision-making capability
You will also be willing to undertake training to become a warranted IFCO (Inshore Fisheries & Conservation Officer).
Why join us?
This is a rare opportunity to take on a rewarding and varied leadership role at the intersection of environmental protection and sustainable fisheries.
You will have the chance to:
- Make a tangible difference to marine conservation and coastal communities
- Lead a highly skilled and dedicated operational team
- Work in a unique and dynamic environment – in the office, on land and at sea
Further information:
For further information, including the full Role Profile & Person Specification, along with details of how to apply please visit our website at www.southern-ifca.gov.uk/vacancies.
For an informal discussion regarding this post please contact Chief Executive Officer Pia Bateman via email pia.bateman@southern-ifca.gov.uk to arrange a call back.
Application process:
- Please send completed application forms to pia.bateman@southern-ifca.gov.uk
- We do not accept CVs and will only consider fully completed application forms
- Interviews for shortlisted candidates are likely to take place week commencing 29thJune 2026 in person. Further details regarding location and the interview day will be provided upon invite to interview.