Blue Marine's Mission

Blue Marine Foundation seeks to protect and restore life in the ocean. Our mission is to see at least 30 per cent of the ocean protected by 2030 and the whole ocean sustainably managed. We support low-impact fishing and equitable use of the ocean and address overfishing – one of the world’s biggest environmental challenges.

We are a dynamic NGO at the heart of cutting-edge marine conservation with headquarters in London but operating globally. This is an incredible chance to join our highly impactful charity; we look forward to hearing from you!

The Role

Blue Investigations is a specialist unit within the Blue Marine Foundation that researches, exposes and combats harmful, unethical and unsustainable practices affecting the ocean, using a combination of in-depth investigation, data analysis and advocacy. Our team has built a strong track record of high-impact outputs, including influential reports, legal challenges and media interventions, contributing to tangible outcomes such as exposing discriminatory treatment of crewmembers working onboard distant-water tuna fleets, challenging the European Commission at the European Court of Justice, supporting stronger fisheries management measures at RFMOs, and helping to drive the ban of destructive electric pulse fishing in the North Sea.

We partner with some of the world’s top legal minds, forensic investigation firms and media outlets, and are now looking to grow our small team to allow us to expand new areas, combatting destructive and inequitable fishing practices across the globe.

We are seeking an experienced and reliable individual to play a central role in advancing our high-impact investigative work and supporting the Blue Marine investigations team. Reporting to the Head of Investigations, the role combines leading independent investigations with supporting the delivery of organisational investigative priorities. The successful candidate will be a proactive, self-motivated investigator with strong analytical, writing and communication skills, capable of developing impactful lines of enquiry and presenting findings in a clear and compelling way to diverse audiences.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead on and deliver independent investigations into unsustainable and inequitable practices affecting the ocean, from inception to publication;
Support the Head of Investigations across priority projects, including research, analysis and coordination;
Identify and develop new investigative opportunities that can drive meaningful policy or behavioural change;
Develop and maintain relationships with other NGOs, consultants and external project partners;
Be the primary point of contact between Blue Investigations and the wider Blue Marine team, dealing with ad-hoc investigative requests;
Collect, manage and analyse complex datasets to support investigative findings;
Produce high-quality written outputs, including reports, briefings and media materials;
Present findings clearly and confidently to internal teams, partners, and external audiences;
Engage with journalists and media outlets where required, including supporting publication and dissemination of investigations;
Report to funders and support on grant applications;
Maintain rigorous attention to detail across all outputs, ensuring accuracy, credibility and defensibility;
Manage multiple investigations simultaneously, prioritising effectively and meeting deadlines.

This list is not exhaustive, and the selected candidate will be required to undertake other relevant tasks from time to time.

Skills and experience required

Essential:

Proven experience leading or contributing to investigations into illegal, unethical or unsustainable practices;
Bachelor's degree in relevant field;
Strong analytical skills, including experience working with large datasets and the ability to communicate complex issues in a concise and engaging way;
Proven experience in conducting interviews and fieldwork;
Ability to work independently, manage own workload and take initiative;
Excellent writing skills, with the ability to produce clear, engaging and impactful reports;
Exceptional attention to detail; methodical and meticulous approach to research and data analysis;
Strong presentation skills, including confidence engaging with media;
Demonstrated ability to develop new ideas and pursue innovative investigative approaches;
High level of integrity and discretion;
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills;
Highly organised, with strong time management and self-motivation;
Proficient in Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint.

Desirable:

Background in investigative journalism or a related field;
Proficiency in French and/or Spanish;
Willingness to travel by oneself to meetings and to conduct research;
Experience in fundraising, managing budgets and reporting to funders;
Experience working on marine, environmental or fisheries-related issues;
Understanding of legal and regulatory frameworks as well as ethics and compliance issues relevant to investigations;
Experience working with external partners, NGOs, and media outlets.

Why us?

This is a great opportunity for you to join our inspirational team and be part of making a valuable difference!

We embrace agile working and trust our employees to work in a hybrid manner that gives them the flexibility to work from home or at the office according to their work commitments. We also recognise our head office is in London and currently offer an optional financial subsidy, which is available to employees attending this office at least two days per week.

Working alongside some of the leading and pioneering minds in marine conservation, our training opportunities and collegiate nature means you will always be learning and supported with your development.

Your wellbeing is important to us, and we hold social events throughout the year. We have a great culture and are committed to an inclusive environment where everyone feels they can contribute.

If you think you have what it takes and the experience to make it happen, then please apply, we would love you to be part of Blue Marine!

Please note

We reserve the right to close job adverts early if we receive sufficient applications for the role. If you would like to know more or have any questions, we are happy to help.

We are a responsible and inclusive employer. We value diversity and are committed to equality and creating an inclusive culture. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and will support you to reach your full potential.

We want you to perform at your best at every stage in the recruitment process. If you are disabled or need any support to enable you to apply or attend an interview, please contact us at HR@edelweisshr.co.uk.

Senior Investigator