Deputy Chief, Fisheries Management

Hiring Range: $85,000 - $100,000

About the Role

Serves as the second highest managerial and policy enacting position for the management and regulation of commercial and recreational fishing for the Commonwealth within the Fisheries Management Division. Works with Chief of Fisheries Management Division and staff to develop bi-state and multi-state species management plans, balancing economic needs, commercial and recreational industry needs, with resource conservation as the primary focus.

Responsibilities

• Assist Chief of Fisheries Management Division in the oversight and management of Division staff on a day-to-day basis, including operations, activities, and development of marine regulatory plans and policy for leadership.
• Oversee fisheries data collection and analysis, and promote and develop recreational and commercial fisheries enhancement.
• Provide leadership, guidance, mentorship, and decision-making to assigned Division staff regarding all aspects of individual programs/projects to achieve goals and objectives.
• Prepare and assist staff in preparation of monthly fisheries evaluations for Commission plans and technical reports; write briefings and reports as necessary; work with staff and Chief in development of regulations and amendments.
• Provide staff with in-state, regional, and interstate technical and planning guidelines or requirements for inclusion in plans.
• Represent the Fisheries Management Division and agency on various regional and federal committees and teams, including those coordinated by the Chesapeake Bay Program, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC), and Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council (MAFMC).
• Act as a Commissioner's proxy as necessary, representing the views and decisions of the Commissioner and Administration as directed.
• Represent the Division and agency in meetings with in-state, regional, and federal research institutions and management agencies to fulfill technical and planning needs by utilizing outside expertise.
• Present technical proposals, plans, and regulatory proposals from Division and Agency activities to the Commission and its citizen advisory committees when directed.
• Respond to public inquiries regarding laws, regulations, and information related to commercial and recreational fishing industries, per agency guidelines.
• Prepare responses to correspondence from citizens or governmental groups, partnering with the agency Communication Director as requested.
• Interact directly with recreational and commercial fishing industry representatives and the media as outlined by the agency Communication Director/Public Information Officer.
• Write proposals or designate staff to obtain federal funds for Division projects, and prepare or review progress and completion reports as required.

Requirements

• Program management level experience or equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Knowledge of marine species and fisheries management techniques.
• Experience with the interjurisdictional fisheries management process.
• Knowledge of the economics and applied practices of the seafood industry and its regulatory framework.
• Familiarity with the legislative process.
• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Ability to direct personnel and execute positive and professional practices that promote team building.

Preferred Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with major course work in marine science, fisheries, or related field. Graduate degree preferred.
• Prior supervisory experience in a strategic management role, with budgetary or data management experience a plus.

Pay

$85,000 - $100,000