Job Description

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.

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

Deadline:

17th November 09:00 BST



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