Policy Director

Policy DirectorThe National Marine Sanctuary Foundation is the official non-profit partner of NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, supporting its system of 18 marine environments from Massachusetts to American Samoa and the Great Lakes to the Florida Keys. We protect these iconic places, care for marine wildlife and habitats, honor our nation's maritime history and cultural traditions, and promote the enjoyment of these public waters. We work with Congress, the Executive Branch and communities to increase public investment; build Congressional champions; strengthen coalitions and partnerships supporting national marine sanctuaries; and advocate for sound legislative and executive initiatives under the National Marine Sanctuaries Act. The Policy Director is critical in positioning the Foundation as a trusted and influential leader, raising awareness and support to key public officials and public policy audiences, and driving action for public investment in marine sanctuaries. The person in this position will be responsible for handling the organization's public policy planning and activities, including developing policy agendas and strategies, researching and crafting Foundation policies and positions, elevating and advancing policy actions, strengthening across government relations, and mobilizing coalitions in support of sanctuaries working closely with the President and CEO and Senior Vice President of External Affairs. The position is in-office with regular time on the Hill. The Director will oversee a growing team of staff and consultants as well as working collaboratively across the organization to achieve the Foundation mission and vision. The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation is committed to a culture of inclusion, equity, and belonging. We are dedicated to attracting and retaining a diverse staff. We honor experiences, perspectives, and unique identities, and welcome the contributions that you can bring to the dedicated team. With a diverse team of employees, we can grow and learn better together and achieve our mission to protect the health of the ocean, coasts and Great Lakes for current and future generations. Required Qualifications: At least a Bachelor's degree and 7+ years of professional experience working with the Executive Branch, Congress, and/or related fields. Proven track record of strategic leadership and hands on experiences in strategic public policy and/or governance campaigns at the national/federal level. Skill and experience in developing and maintaining relationships and networking with Congress, the Administration, academics, non-governmental organizations, private businesses and corporations, and the general public. Strong leadership and collaboration skills, effectively working across diverse teams and stakeholders. Skill and experience in organization and priority setting with high attention to detail. Ability to distinguish between competing priorities and balance complex and demanding workloads; organize and coordinate work assignments. Ability to work on multiple priority tasks concurrently. Fluency in computer software programs (i.e. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Gmail, Asana, and databases). Strong oral and written communication abilities. Demonstrated commitment to high professional, ethical standards and a diverse workplace. Ability to work in a high-pressure environment. Regular attendance required. Preferred Qualifications: Experience recruiting and managing a diverse, high performing team including staff and consultants -- and fostering a culture of inclusion, creativity, and accountability. Additional experiences in international, regional, state, tribal, and local public policy and governance levels. Ability to think creatively about challenges and issues, partnerships, and solutions for ocean, coast, and Great Lakes conservation. Ability to collaborate and work well with others, including local, state, and federal government agencies, non-profit organizations, businesses and corporations, academic institutions and universities, philanthropic organizations and potential funders, etc. Focus in marine and Great Lakes fields, and a sincere interest in, and commitment to, our mission. The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation ("Foundation") is a leading voice for U.S. protected waters, working with communities to conserve and expand those special places for a healthy ocean, coasts, and Great Lakes. The Foundation works in close partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to increase stewardship of our ocean and Great Lakes through on-the- water conservation projects, and education and public outreach activities, and by support for research. Together, we safeguard species and the places they call home, and support coastal communities and economies. Dedicated and passionate staff committed to marine and Great Lakes Conservation Generous leave policy, plus paid time off the week between December 25 and January 1; and 12 paid holidays Health benefits: Medical with an FSA option; dental, and vision Foundation paid Life and Disability Insurance Preparing for the Future: 403(B) with employer contribution after one year of service Commuter Benefits Compensation and Benefits: $95,000 to $110,000 annually, based on experience. The Foundation offers a competitive benefits package. Apply through the Foundation's online portal. A cover letter, resume, and three professional references are required with your application. Applications received by May 11, 2026 will be preferred.