The ocean covers 71% of the planet and provides half of the oxygen on Earth. The ocean is our life support system, but it is in crisis as a result of biodiversity loss, pollution, overfishing and climate change.
The Two Oceans Aquarium in the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, is ideally positioned to showcase the incredible diversity of marine life found off the southern tip of Africa and to lead education and behaviour change programmes to turn the tide towards a healthy ocean supporting a healthy planet.
The Aquarium has a 30-year track record of inspiring people to care for the ocean, through innovative marine education and conservation. Last year, we proudly launched our Ocean Campus, one of the largest marine education facilities in southern Africa. Reaching over 100,000 learners and adults with programmes that span from "cradle to grave," we are looking for an inspiring and dynamic leader to join our team as Head of Ocean Campus. If you are passionate about the power of education and behaviour change, marine conservation, climate change, and youth leadership, this is your opportunity to make a lasting impact and contribute to ocean conservation.
The Role of Head of Ocean Campus
The Head of Ocean Campus will play a crucial role in seamlessly integrating the Foundation's education offerings under one unified brand, working to cultivate an engaged and passionate community dedicated to marine conservation and environmental sustainability.
Position Overview
This is an exciting and dynamic leadership position, where you’ll oversee all educational programmes and initiatives. You will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of ocean education, public outreach, and community engagement while continuing to elevate our mission to inspire a deep love for the ocean and advance marine conservation across South Africa and the African continent.
Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership
- Develop and execute a strategic vision for the Ocean Campus that aligns with the Foundation’s overall goals.
Team Leadership
- Build and lead a passionate team of educators, researchers, and support staff.
- Foster a collaborative, innovative, and supportive team environment.
- Provide mentorship and professional development opportunities for team members.
Resource Management
- Manage the budget for the Ocean Campus to ensure financial sustainability.
- Secure funding through grants, sponsorships, and partnerships to support educational programmes.
- Oversee the marketing and sales of the Ocean Campus programmes.
Programme Management
- Oversee the planning and execution of educational programmes, workshops, and events at the Ocean Campus.
- Collaborate with educators, scientists, and community partners to create engaging, science-based content.
- Coordinate the monitoring and evaluation of programs to improve continuously.
Community Engagement
- Cultivate strong relationships with schools, community organisations, and other key stakeholders.
- Lead outreach efforts to promote the Foundation’s educational initiatives in communities across South Africa.
Curriculum Development
- Support the team in the design and enhancement of curricula that align with academic standards while fostering a deep understanding of marine ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation.
- Integrate technology and interactive learning techniques into curricula to enhance the educational experience, including hybrid and online formats.
Stakeholder Collaboration
- Build strategic partnerships to extend the Ocean Campus’ reach and impact.
Qualifications:
- Master’s or Ph.D. in marine science, environmental education, or a related field.
- 10-15 years of experience in educational NGOs, environmental science education, or youth leadership initiatives.
- 10 years in a senior leadership role within education or youth movements.
- Experience in grant writing and fundraising
- Proven experience in running and growing an educational nonprofit organisation focused on environmental education.
- Successful track record in designing, implementing, and scaling educational programmes.
- Demonstrated leadership, team building, and budget management skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
- Familiarity with trends in marine science, conservation, and education.
Join us in shaping the future of ocean education and conservation. Together, we can inspire the next generation of environmental leaders who will protect our ocean for years to come.
Reporting Structure
The Head of Ocean Campus will serve on the Executive Team of the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation and report to its Executive Chair.
If you are passionate about marine education and community building and possess the qualifications outlined in the job description, we encourage you to apply.
The Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.
Please send your CV (with three references) and a cover letter to careers@aquariumfoundation.org.za
For more information, please visit: https://www.aquarium.co.za/foundation/education
Application Deadline: 18 March 2025
Salary: To be discussed at interview
If no response is received within 14 days of the closing date, candidates should regard their application as unsuccessful.