Marine Programme Lead
Are you passionate about protecting marine biodiversity and driving meaningful change for the Greek seas and the Mediterranean? Do you have the leadership, strategic thinking and collaboration skills needed to guide a high-impact conservation programme?
Location: Athens, Greece (hybrid working possible)
Contract: Full-time, fixed term with possibility of renewal
Role overview
WWF Greece is looking for a Marine Programme Lead to drive our marine conservation work and help advance ambitious solutions for the protection and sustainable management of Greece's seas.
This is a leadership role for an experienced professional who can combine science, policy, partnerships and people leadership to deliver tangible conservation outcomes. Working closely with colleagues across WWF Greece, the Mediterranean and the global WWF Network, you will play a key role in developing new programmes and shaping our marine strategy, leading a talented team, influencing policy and strengthening partnerships that drive lasting impact.
What you will do
As Marine Programme Lead, you will:
- Lead the strategic direction and development of WWF Greece's Marine Programme.
- Coordinate projects from planning to implementation, monitoring, and adaptive management, ensuring impact management and accountability.
- Manage and support a multidisciplinary team, fostering collaboration, learning and high performance.
- Oversee the design, implementation and evaluation of marine conservation projects and initiative
- Build and maintain strong relationships with public authorities, research institutions, civil society organisations, local communities and other key stakeholders.
- Represent WWF Greece in national and international forums, partnerships and policy processes.
- Contribute to the development of WWF positions and advocacy priorities on marine biodiversity, marine protected areas, fisheries and broader marine governance issues.
- Support fundraising efforts and help secure resources that enable programme growth and impact.
- Ensure that WWF Greece's marine conservation work remains science-based, credible and aligned with the organisation's mission and strategic priorities.
What you bring
Required Qualifications & Experience
We are looking for someone who combines technical expertise with leadership and relationship-building skills. You will ideally have:
- Significant professional experience in marine conservation, marine policy, fisheries management or environmental governance.
- Experience leading teams, projects or programmes in a complex stakeholder environment.
- Strong understanding of marine conservation challenges and opportunities in Greece and the Mediterranean.
- Experience engaging with public institutions, decision-makers, scientific organisations and civil society stakeholders.
- Strong strategic thinking, communication and influencing skills.
- Experience managing projects, budgets and funding opportunities.
- Excellent written and spoken Greek and English.
- A collaborative mindset and a strong commitment to WWF's values and mission.
- Experience working with international organisations, European policy processes or donor-funded projects will be considered an asset.
Desirable Skills & Experience
- The ability to work with autonomy, judgement, and respect for collective processes.
- Demonstrated ability to engage and pursue synergies with a wide network of partners and stakeholders.
- Conscientiousness and efficiency in meeting deadlines and achieving results.
- Ability to deal effectively with complex issues and in finding feasible solutions.
- Demonstrated leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills.
- A grounded commitment to WWF’s mission and values.
What we offer
- The opportunity to contribute to impactful marine conservation work in Greece.
- A collaborative, supportive and purpose-driven culture.
- Flexible hybrid working arrangements.
- A competitive NGO-sector compensation and benefits package.
How to apply
If you are excited by the opportunity to lead marine conservation work that delivers real impact, we would love to hear from you.
Please send a CV and a cover letter in PDF format highlighting what makes you a good fit for us at hr@wwf.gr.
Application deadline: July 8, 2026
All applications will be treated with strict confidence. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
About us
WWF Greece is a member of the global WWF network that is active in nearly 100 countries. At every level, we collaborate with people around the world to develop and deliver innovative solutions that address climate crisis, protect communities, wildlife, and the places in which they live. We act with courage, respect, integrity and collaboration to fulfill our vision for building a future in which people live in harmony with nature. Our team is made up of passionate individuals who are committed to making a positive impact on the world.
WWF is an equal opportunity employer and committed to having a diverse workforce.