National Coordinator – Panama

MarAlliance is a leading international non-profit, operating across seven countries, with official registrations in the US, Belize, Panama, and Cabo Verde, and active engagement in Honduras since 2015. We are dedicated to pioneering conservation efforts for endangered marine species, particularly sharks, rays, large finfish and turtles, alongside their critical coastal habitats. Our approach is collaborative, involving community-based research, educational initiatives, and conservation strategies, working hand-in-hand with fishermen, tourism professionals, students, protected area personnel, policymakers, and other vital marine stakeholders. By collecting crucial data on marine populations, artisanal fisheries, the impact of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), and the behavior and ecology of marine wildlife in a rapidly changing world, we inform and empower evidence-based conservation and management decisions. As the populations of many large marine species continue to decline, MarAlliance stands as a formidable, science-driven advocate, guiding our partners in developing and implementing effective conservation strategies to reverse these trends and ensure a sustainable future for marine life.

Position Summary

The National Coordinator (NC) for MarAlliance in Panama will play a pivotal role in leading our initiatives to research, educate, and conserve marine wildlife in Panama. This experienced professional, who must be a Panamanian national or resident, will oversee the comprehensive management of projects in the Panama program that requires management of a diverse team, strategic planning, fundraising, support to fieldwork and communications, capacity building, diplomacy and advocacy that create and nurture partnerships and policy support efforts. Responsibilities also encompass the creation and execution of annual work plans and budgets, report generation, human resources, compliance, and additional administrative duties.

Key Values and Competencies

• Demonstrated strategic thinking, attention to detail, and organizational skills, with the capacity to meet tight deadlines and manage team dynamics effectively.
• Proven fundraising capabilities with different funding sectors.
• Demonstrated commitment of engagement with coastal communities, fishers, policymakers, and other stakeholders in science and conservation to fulfill organizational objectives.
• Exceptional leadership, people and program management and diplomacy.
• Excellent written and verbal communication with strong presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Drive the development and implementation of MarAlliance’s strategic vision within Panama, aligning with both national and international conservation priorities.
• Effectively manage and inspire the country’s growing and diverse team with clear goal-setting, follow-through, professionalism and mentoring.
• Manage project delivery to meet the goals and objectives of the Panama program efficiently.
• Oversee budgeting, legal, administrative, and fiscal compliance for all activities in Panama.
• Coordinate fieldwork and data collection with Research Officers and Community Coordinators, ensuring accuracy, timeliness and utility of expected outputs.
• Plan and support execution of educational and outreach initiatives with the Outreach Officer that tie in to MarAlliance’s communication and education strategies.
• Lead the creation of grant proposals, donor reports, and programmatic updates pertinent to the Panama program working with the Development and Communications teams.
• Supervise and share with the Communications Team both media and educational content production, reflecting the program’s activities in alignment with the communication strategy.
• Provide leadership to MarAlliance staff, contractors, and volunteers in Panama, ensuring contractual and financial accountability, legal and labour compliance.
• Maintain active and regular engagement of partners locally and in remote areas.
• Oversee organizational equipment and assets security.
• Foster and expand professional relationships with local and international partners.
• Represent MarAlliance in professional settings and maintain effective communication with the Panama and international teams.

Qualifications and Skills

• A Master’s Degree in natural resources management, non-profit management, or related field.
• At least five years’ experience in project/program management and team supervision, ideally within an NGO context.
• Proven track record in fundraising and project proposal development.
• Bilingual English and Spanish with excellent writing, communication, and presentation skills.
• Strong organizational, project, and financial management competencies.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to engage in diplomacy and capacity building.
• Strongly self-motivated with the ability to work independently.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with Zoom, Canva, and Quickbooks.
• Valid driver’s license is mandatory.

Assets

• Knowledge of marine conservation, fisheries, and the socio-political landscape in Panama.
• Creativity, diplomacy, patience, flexibility, and a good sense of humor.
• A deep commitment to MarAlliance’s mission and goals, a love of the sea and marine wildlife.

Duration and Benefits

This full-time position begins on Jan 15, 2024, with the possibility of annual renewal. Compensation is competitive, reflecting qualifications and experience. Benefits include remote work in Panama City, health insurance, professional travel, capacity-building opportunities, and paid vacation.

Location and Oversight

Based in Panama City, the role requires up to 40% travel, including travel in small boats and stays in remote areas in rustic conditions. The NC reports to the Executive Director and collaborates closely with MarAlliance team members.

How to apply:

Application Process

Interested candidates should send their CV, a letter of interest, and three references in one PDF to info@maralliance.org with “LAST NAME_NC Panama” in the subject line by November 1, 2024.