Job Description
The Program Director is accountable for spearheading the planning and implementation of the MSCF Bahamas program, with a specific focus on the Super Coral Program and its Marine Conservation Center.
Primary objectives include ensuring the successful execution of the program within the allocated timeframe, with the Program Director reporting directly to the Secretary General of the foundation.
Core responsibilities involve overseeing an on-the-ground team and collaborating with MSC Foundation Management in Geneva, as well as MSC Cruises and other MSC Group entities involved in the program's implementation.
Key Accountabilities:
* Planning
o Develop program goals aligned with MSCF's strategic objectives for the Caribbean / The Bahamas, in coordination with MSC Ocean Cay and MSC Cruises.
o Establish a comprehensive program plan, including milestones, deadlines, clear team member responsibilities, and monitoring processes.
o Promote the Marine Conservation Center (MCC) activity plan, incorporating learning, research, and visitor experiences, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
o Ensure timely requests for research / conservation permits and necessary documentation to Bahamian authorities.
* Operations
o Manage the program operational budget, ensuring expense control and optimization.
o Coordinate activities among involved parties, guaranteeing adherence to legal regulations, internal policies, and procedures.
o Assign tasks to the program team, providing supervision, support, and timely feedback, while resolving complex challenges.
o Secure necessary permits for efficient program development, particularly the DEPP research permit.
o Evaluate the proper use of foundation assets, including the research vessel and MCC, ensuring administrative and legal requirements are met.
o Promote environmentally and energy-efficient practices for the MCC's construction and operation.
o Define strategies for long-term program self-sustainability.
* Monitoring & Evaluation
o Regularly monitor program progress, identifying areas for improvement, risk factors, and implement solutions to address these issues.
o Oversee MCC construction, addressing challenges, and ensuring timely procurement of equipment and materials.
o Monitor MCC activities to ensure it functions as a regional hub for coral restoration, research, and awareness-raising amongst visitors.
o Develop evaluation strategies to assess team performance and determine areas for improvement.
* Engagement and Coordination
o Establish and maintain strong relationships with local, national, and international stakeholders and providers facilitating program implementation and expansion.
o Foster advocacy and influence, understanding local and national government and policy targets to support program growth.
o Provide regular updates to senior management via detailed reports and presentations, at least monthly.
* Other Responsibilities
o Initiate new projects aligning with MSCF's strategic objectives.
o Collaborate with the MSCF communication team to share good practices about program milestones and impact.
o Develop the team and foster a positive, motivational work environment.
Requirements
* Approximately 10 years of experience in a similar position.
* Exceptional understanding of Bahamian governmental and civil society stakeholders in environmental, marine conservation fields, with familiarity with the DEPP research permit system and related Bahamian requirements.
* Broad knowledge of program management principles and success records in complex programs implementation.
* Strategic mindset, ability to lead and execute program activities efficiently.
* Superior communication skills, both written and oral; additional languages spoken will be beneficial.
* Capacity to work under pressure, managing diverse expectations and multi-dimensional program deliverables.
* Understanding of building and running a research / education / outreach facility would be advantageous.
* Experience working with ecotourism brand expansion.