Marine Migratory Species Consultant

To support the Preparatory Phase of a Regional Programme on Migratory Marine Species in the ROPME Sea Area by developing a robust regional baseline and planning framework through comprehensive assessment, stakeholder consultation, and regional validation. The consultant will work under the supervision of the CMS Dugong MOU Coordinator and coordinate with ROPME and national focal points from participating countries.

Responsibilities

• Review the desk study of existing global, regional, and national assessments related to migratory marine species and their habitats in the RSA; compile and synthesize available data on the status, distribution, key habitats, and threats affecting marine turtles, dugongs, sharks and rays.
• Support the national consultations with ROPME Member States, including national focal points and relevant governmental and non-governmental institutions; assess whether existing data remain current and identify gaps, and capture national priorities and ongoing initiatives; prepare a summary of consultation outcomes.
• Develop a draft regional desk-top baseline report covering ecological status, threats, policy frameworks, and existing conservation measures; include in the report key data gaps, capacity needs, and priority areas for intervention.
• Revise and finalize the baseline report based on feedback received during the regional workshop; ensure the report is technically sound, policy-relevant, and aligned with CMS frameworks.
• Develop a draft Regional Roadmap and Action Plan outlining priority actions, indicative timelines, roles and responsibilities.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in marine science, environmental management, or related field.
• A minimum of seven years of proven professional experience in conducting regional assessments and stakeholder consultations.
• Strong analytical and report-writing skills.
• Demonstrated experience with multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs), United Nations processes, and government policy frameworks.
• Experience working with marine turtles, dugongs, sharks and rays.
• Experience with the ROPME region is an asset.
• Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required.

Skills

• Marine Sciences
• Environmental Management
• Regional assessments
• Multi-Stakeholder Consultation
• Analytical Skills
• Report Writing
• Multilateral Environmental Agreements
• United Nations Processes
• Government Policy Frameworks
• Marine Turtle Conservation
• Dugong Conservation
• Shark and Ray Conservation
• Regional Programme Development
• Baseline Assessments
• Regional Validation

Languages

English