As a Director of Fishery and Ocean Management, you will provide strategic leadership and direction for fishery and ocean management programs and initiatives. You will oversee the development and implementation of policies, regulations, and management frameworks that support sustainable fisheries, marine conservation, and ocean resource stewardship. This role involves managing teams of professionals, coordinating with multiple stakeholders including provincial and territorial governments, Indigenous communities, industry representatives, and international partners to ensure effective governance of Canada's aquatic resources.
Your responsibilities will include developing evidence-based management strategies, directing research and monitoring programs, ensuring compliance with national and international fishery agreements, and providing expert advice to senior government officials. You will manage significant budgets, oversee operational activities, and ensure that fishery and ocean management practices align with environmental sustainability goals and federal legislation.
This position operates in a dynamic, collaborative environment where you will work across government departments, engage with coastal communities, and contribute to Canada's commitment to ocean health and food security. You may travel to field locations, coastal regions, and attend meetings with stakeholders across the country.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of fishery and ocean management services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the fishery and ocean management team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Scientific methodology, Field research, Environmental assessment, Data interpretation, Regulatory compliance, Team leadership, Operational planning, Stakeholder engagement, Results management
Typical Education
Bachelor's degree or equivalent; significant experience in the relevant discipline with demonstrated leadership
Training
A bachelor's degree in biology, marine science, environmental science, fisheries science, or a related discipline is typically required. Some positions may accept equivalent experience in fishery management or ocean resource administration. Many Directors hold graduate degrees (Master's or PhD) in fields such as marine biology, fisheries management, environmental management, or public administration.
Professional certifications relevant to this field may include credentials in environmental management, project management (PMP), or specialized fisheries certifications. Familiarity with federal legislation including the Fisheries Act, Species at Risk Act, and Oceans Act is essential. Continuous professional development is encouraged through workshops on emerging ocean management issues, climate change impacts on fisheries, Indigenous consultation practices, and advanced leadership training. Many Directors participate in professional associations such as the Canadian Fisheries and Aquaculture Council or similar marine science organizations.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director-level position typically occurs through advertised Government of Canada staffing competitions. Candidates usually progress through lower classification levels (such as Biologist, Senior Biologist, or Manager positions) before reaching the Director level, or may transfer laterally from related federal departments such as Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, or Transport Canada.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) conducts competitions for Director positions. Interested candidates should monitor the Government of Canada Job Bank and the Fisheries and Oceans Canada careers page for advertised opportunities. Some Directors enter the federal public service through graduate recruitment programs or student internship positions, advancing their careers over time. Internal mobility and promotion from within the department are also common pathways. Candidates with extensive private sector or academic experience in fisheries management may be considered for external competitions through the established selection process.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions in Fishery and Ocean Management are typically full-time. However, the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of work-life balance and flexibility. Many departments offer flexible work arrangements such as flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or job sharing arrangements on a case-by-case basis, depending on operational requirements and management approval.
Remote work options may be available for certain administrative and planning duties, though this role requires regular in-person presence given the collaborative nature of stakeholder engagement, team leadership responsibilities, and the need to visit field sites and coastal operations. The specific flexibility available will depend on the employing organization's policies and the operational demands of the position. Employees are encouraged to discuss potential flexible arrangements with their hiring manager during the recruitment process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
