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

This role heads the Project Finance team and ensures it continues to support Blue Marine effectively as the organisation grows in scale and complexity. It also oversees the full financial journey of Blue Marine’s project partners, from due diligence and legal agreements through to strong financial oversight and accurate reporting. A key part of the role is building the financial and operational capacity of partners, helping partners scale their conservation impact through improved financial management and operational effectiveness.

Reporting to the Director of Finance, Operations and Governance, the successful candidate will:

Oversee and develop the Project Finance team, setting clear priorities, high standards and effective ways of working.
Drive the strategic direction of the Project Finance function as Blue Marine’s portfolio grows in scale and complexity.
Maintain high-level oversight of project budgets, delivery partners, donor requirements, financial risks and reporting obligations across the portfolio.
Oversee the end-to-end financial journey of project partners, from due diligence and legal agreements through to ensuring timely and accurate reporting is received.
Ensure high-quality, timely project reporting, budget monitoring, audit evidence and donor compliance, with fit-for-purpose processes followed consistently.
Provide insight, challenge and analysis to support strategic decisions and funding proposals.
Lead Blue Marine’s work to build the operational capacity of international project partners, including through some international travel.
Champion practical improvements to systems and ways of working, building on an existing culture of continuous improvement.
Provide hands-on support during peak reporting periods while maintaining senior oversight.
Represent Finance with credibility and integrity across Blue Marine and with external partners and funders.
Deputise for the Director of Finance, Operations and Governance where appropriate.
Contribute to wider organisational priorities as a member of the senior management team.
Uphold Blue Marine’s values and always embody this behaviour internally and externally.

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

Significant senior experience in project finance, programme finance or commercial finance, with responsibility for complex budgets, reporting and risk.
Strong track record of overseeing large and complex portfolios, including financial reporting, audit evidence, and contractual or donor compliance requirements and risk management.
Experience of improving finance systems, reporting tools or organisational processes during a period of growth or change.
Strong understanding of financial controls, policies and processes, with the ability to apply sound judgement in a practical and proportionate way.
Experience of working with external partners to improve financial processes, reporting and operational effectiveness.
Experience of leading and developing high-performing teams, with the ability to set clear priorities and improve ways of working.
Confident communicator with the ability to build credibility and constructive relationships with colleagues, funders and external partners.
Highly organised, with the ability to manage competing deadlines and maintain accuracy and attention to detail in a fast-moving environment.

Desired

Qualified accountant, or equivalent senior-level financial experience.
Experience of working with Microsoft-based systems, including Power Platform tools such as Power BI.
Experience of bringing structure, clarity and strong financial discipline to complex or evolving organisations.
Experience of working with international partners across different legal, operational or cultural contexts.
An understanding of, or interest in, the environmental, conservation or charitable sector.

You may also

Have the following personal qualities:

Calm, practical and solutions-focused
Collaborative, supportive and confident working across teams
Ability to combine strategic thinking with a willingness to get into the detail when needed
Good judgement, integrity and discretion
Passion for, and commitment to, the ocean or another environmental cause

Why us?

This is a great opportunity for you to join our inspirational team and be part of making a difference! We offer a great salary in addition to a generous benefits package.

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 annual subsidy, which is available to employees committed to attending the office regularly on a weekly basis.

Working alongside some of the most 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.

Head of Project Finance