Regional Coordinator – Marine & Coastal Areas, Gulf of Guinea

About the role

The Regional Coordinator – Marine & Coastal Areas for the Gulf of Guinea Ecoregion will lead IUCN’s marine and coastal programme across West and Central Africa. Reporting to the Regional Director, the role drives the regional marine conservation agenda, supports the transition to a blue economy, and ensures high‑level programmatic results.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement the MACO and Gulf of Guinea Ecoregion Programme, providing strategic vision and guidance.
• Ensure effective, institutionally aligned programming, systematic monitoring, and evaluation of all activities.
• Communicate lessons learned to regional decision‑makers and stakeholders.
• Provide technical advice and support on marine and coastal conservation to Country Offices and thematic programmes.
• Act as IUCN’s focal point on marine and coastal issues, coordinating with members, commissions, partners and other IUCN components.
• Coordinate the analysis, development and dissemination of relevant marine and coastal policies.
• Oversee the design and implementation of marine and coastal initiatives, ensuring coherence with IUCN’s “One Programme” approach.

Required profile

• Proven leadership in marine and coastal conservation and programme management.
• Experience managing multi‑million, multi‑donor initiatives.
• Ability to influence regional governments and promote a blue‑economy transition.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills with members, commissions and partners.
• Excellent strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation capabilities.

Required skills

What we offer

• Fixed‑term contract (up to 24 months) with possibility of renewal.
• Opportunity to shape marine conservation across a critical ecoregion.
• Collaboration with a global network of experts and partners.