Marine Ecosystems and Biodiversity Policy Officer – Secondment or Loan

The Marine Ecosystems and Biodiversity Branch within the Marine and Biodiversity Division are seeking a motivated individual with strong interpersonal skills along with the ability to work autonomously. Our Welsh seas are some of the richest and most biologically diverse across Europe and are home to many habitats and species of national and international importance. To protect our species and habitats, Wales has a network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) covering 69% of our inshore waters. The MPAs also help us to achieve Good Environmental Status in our waters, through the UK Marine Strategy and support delivery of our Global Biodiversity Framework Commitments, particularly the 30x30 target.

To support our response to the climate emergency, commitments to “Net Zero” and First Minister priorities, there is planned expansion of offshore renewable energy across Welsh seas, which is resulting in increasing spatial demands and impacts to the MPA network. There is a need to agree compensatory measures for any impacts/loss of habitats and species from the expansion of offshore renewables, and wider infrastructure, to ensure the coherence and resilience of our MPAs.

The main purpose of the role is to work with Natural Resources Wales (NRW), UK Government departments and WG Marine Planning and Licensing team to speed up the consenting process for infrastructure development. This will include supporting the Offshore Wind Environmental Improvement Package (OWIEP) to expedite the deployment of offshore renewables, in addition to supporting wider derogations for e.g. port/flood defence developments. The post holder will work closely with NRW to identify and take forward potential suitable compensatory measures. The post holder will also support the wider work of the Marine Biodiversity and Ecosystems branch including supporting completion of the MPA network, delivery of Welsh Minister commitments to OSPAR and the UK Marine Strategy and Programme for Government commitments. The role will also require significant engagement with a range of WG cross policy areas including Energy, Fisheries and Transport (Ports) divisions. Additionally, the role will involve significant interaction with Cabinet Secretaries/Ministers and Special Advisors. The post holder will be supporting an SEO post and wider colleagues within the branch.

Key responsibilities:

• Support strategic engagement with Natural Resources Wales (NRW), JNCC, and UK Government to identify and secure suitable compensation measures that support current and future infrastructure development needs.
• Collaborate across government and industry, working with DEFRA, DESNZ, The Crown Estate, and Welsh Government Marine Planning teams to deliver derogations and compensatory habitat requirements—accelerating offshore wind deployment and wider infrastructure projects.
• Lead on other priorities within the branch, working closely with colleagues across the division and wider including fisheries, water, flood and environmental policy.
• Manage day-to-day government business, ensuring timely delivery of priorities and commitments.

Development opportunities:

• Work in a high-profile policy area that directly supports Programme for Government commitments and delivers Ministerial priorities on biodiversity and climate change.
• Gain significant experience in intergovernmental policy development and delivery, collaborating with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including Ministers.
• Join a high-performing, friendly, and inclusive team where your contributions will make a real impact.
• Benefit from excellent support and access to training, ensuring you have the tools and time to succeed in the role and achieve your personal development goals.

Eligibility Verification:

Applicants will be assessed against the criteria below. Candidates who do not meet the eligibility requirements will be notified regarding the status of their application.

Selection Process And Stages:

Evidence to provide: Experience questions.

• Experience 1: Ability to analyse complex data and information and provide clear, evidence-based recommendations to senior managers.
• Experience 2: Knowledge of marine protected areas and strategic compensation measures.
• Experience 3: Ability to develop and deliver policy or evidence-based work.
• Experience 4: Ability to work to challenging and competing deadlines.

Nationality Requirements:

UK nationals, Nationals of the Republic of Ireland, Nationals of Commonwealth countries who have the right to work in the UK, Nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members of those nationalities with settled or pre-settled status under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS).