Fishery Officer (Compliance)

Job Posting Organization:
The Fisheries and Aquaculture Division (NFI) is dedicated to transforming aquatic systems and promoting sustainable management of aquatic food systems. The organization aims to enhance production, nutrition, environmental health, and overall quality of life while ensuring inclusivity. The General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM), a regional fisheries management organization established under the FAO Constitution, focuses on the sustainable development of marine resources and aquaculture in the Mediterranean and Black Sea. The GFCM adopts binding recommendations and resolutions to ensure effective implementation and compliance, working closely with Contracting Parties and non-Contracting Parties to enhance their capacity in fisheries management.

Job Overview:
The Fishery Officer (Compliance) plays a crucial role in supporting compliance with GFCM policies among Contracting Parties and Cooperating non-Contracting Parties. This position involves leading the GFCM Secretariat Compliance Team and collaborating with various stakeholders to ensure adherence to GFCM decisions and strategies. The officer will be responsible for developing and implementing frameworks for compliance monitoring, conducting research and analysis, and providing technical assistance to enhance compliance capabilities. The role requires a strong focus on international cooperation and advocacy for best practices in fisheries management, particularly in relation to illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Fishery Officer (Compliance) will oversee the work of the Compliance Committee, monitor compliance by GFCM Contracting Parties, and strengthen data reporting frameworks. The officer will lead the Compliance Team, liaise with GFCM Secretariat staff, and participate in strategic planning for GFCM activities. Responsibilities include providing compliance-related advice to the Executive Secretary, assisting national focal points with compliance activities, representing GFCM in relevant meetings, and contributing to the development of monitoring and control initiatives. The officer will also be involved in resource mobilization activities and ensure the quality of capacity development efforts within Member Nations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fishery science, marine affairs, or a related field. A minimum of seven years of relevant experience in fisheries is required, with a strong emphasis on combating IUU fishing and implementing management measures. Candidates should have a solid understanding of regulatory frameworks and compliance measures at various levels, as well as experience in providing technical support and advice to governments on monitoring and control issues.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fishery science, marine affairs, or a related field is mandatory for this position. The educational background should be relevant to compliance processes and fisheries management.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of relevant experience in the fisheries sector, particularly focusing on actions against IUU fishing. This experience should include the implementation and assessment of management measures adopted by various organizations, as well as providing technical support on monitoring and control issues.

Languages:
A working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (level B) of another FAO official language, which could be Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Proficiency in Arabic, French, or Spanish will be considered a strong asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at the GFCM headquarters. The role involves full-time commitment and may require participation in international meetings and collaboration with various stakeholders. The organization values results-oriented individuals who can work effectively in teams and communicate well with diverse audiences.