Join the Fight: The Forage Fish Campaign Is Hiring a Policy Director
A new fight is emerging at the intersection of conservation, economic security, and the future of America’s coastal communities.
The Forage Fish Campaign is at the center of it, working to end destructive industrial forage fishing practices and advance policies that better protect the species that sustain marine ecosystems, local economies, and the broader food chain. We’re seeking a Policy Director to help lead this work by shaping strategy, engaging decision-makers, and building a durable coalition around one of the next major conservation and economic battles taking shape in America.
We’re a national advocacy organization dedicated to protecting forage fish species that are foundational to healthy marine ecosystems, sustainable fisheries, and resilient coastal communities. The Campaign works at the intersection of science, policy, and public engagement to end destructive industrial forage fishing practices.
The Policy Director will lead the Campaign’s federal and state advocacy efforts, manage external consultants, and support strategic communications and events. This senior role will help shape and execute the Campaign’s policy agenda, engage decision-makers, and strengthen a growing coalition of stakeholders, partners, and supporters.
Working closely with the Executive Director, comms team, board members, scientific advisors, and coalition partners, the Policy Director will advance legislative, regulatory, and administrative reforms to better protect forage fish and the ecosystems and communities that depend on them.
Key Responsibilities
Policy & Advocacy
Develop and execute the Campaign’s policy and advocacy strategy.
Track federal and state legislation, regulations, and agency actions related to fisheries management and industrial fishing.
Engage policymakers, agency staff, and partner organizations to advance policy priorities.
Draft policy briefs, comment letters, testimony, and other advocacy materials.
Consultant & Coalition Management
Oversee external lobbying, outreach, and communications consultants.
Ensure strategic alignment and message consistency across partners.
Serve as a primary liaison between the Campaign and its external teams.
Build and maintain relationships with coalition partners, scientists, community leaders, and advocates.
Communications & Public Engagement
Support media, op-eds, and public-facing materials with policy expertise.
Help translate complex science and policy into clear, compelling public narratives.
Represent the Campaign in media interviews, panels, and briefings as needed.
Events & Fundraising
Help plan and execute advocacy events, briefings, and fly-ins in Washington and key coastal regions.
Support grant writing and reporting.
Engage current and prospective donors to communicate the Campaign’s goals and strategy.
Qualifications
5–10 years of experience in public policy, advocacy, government relations, or a related field.
Experience working with Congress, federal agencies, or state governments.
Strong understanding of environmental, fisheries, ocean, or natural resource policy.
Experience managing consultants or external partners.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently in a fast-moving, entrepreneurial environment.
Willingness to travel as needed.
Preferred
Washington, DC-based, with strong policy or advocacy networks.
Experience with coalition-based advocacy or nonprofit campaigns.
Familiarity with fisheries management and marine conservation policy.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary range of $120,000–$140,000, commensurate with experience. Benefits include healthcare, 401(k) contributions with immediate vesting, paid time off, and flexible work arrangements, with a preference for candidates based near Washington, DC.
How to Apply
Please submit a resume and brief cover letter to info@foragefishcampaign.org outlining your interest in the role and relevant experience.