Fresh job opening at the Aquatic Life Institute!

Aquatic Life Institute (ALI) is hiring a Chief Program Officer to lead their impactful programs remotely!

Job Title: Chief Program Officer
Location: Remote (preferably aligned with US EST or PST time zones)
Job Type: Full-Time
Application Opening Date: February 5, 2026
Application Deadline: Open until filled
Annual Salary Range: $85,000 – $105,000 USD (Negotiable)

About Aquatic Life Institute (ALI)

Founded in 2019, Aquatic Life Institute (ALI) is a pioneering organization dedicated to advocating for aquatic animals worldwide.

As a hub for research, coalition-building, policy development, and advocacy, ALI aims to reduce the suffering of the billions of aquatic animals caught, farmed, or otherwise exploited in the global food system each year. Their mission is driven by a collaborative approach that unites stakeholders across sectors to generate impactful change.

ALI operates on the belief that through coordinated efforts, science-based advocacy, and strategic partnerships, it can shape a future where aquatic animals are treated humanely and their welfare prioritized. With a solid foundation in research and advocacy, ALI is positioned at the forefront of the global aquatic animal welfare movement, seeking a strategic leader to elevate its programs and initiatives.

The Role: Chief Program Officer (CPO)

The Chief Program Officer (CPO) will play a pivotal leadership role in strengthening ALI’s operational effectiveness and impact. Reporting directly to the Managing Director (MD), the CPO will oversee the execution of all programs and initiatives, ensuring they align with organizational strategy, deliver measurable outcomes, and foster collaboration across teams.

This position is designed for a highly organized, strategic thinker with extensive experience in program management, campaign leadership, and organizational coordination within non-profit, advocacy, or environmental sectors. The CPO will be the organization’s central connector, facilitating seamless communication, effective planning, and impactful program delivery.

Key Responsibilities

1. Executive Support & Strategic Alignment

Take primary ownership of program and campaign execution, ensuring initiatives meet organizational goals.
Collaborate closely with the MD on organizational priorities, strategic planning sessions, and key stakeholder engagement.

Lead the preparation of briefing materials, presentations, and reports for external meetings, board activities, and partner engagements.
Drive progress against strategic objectives, ensuring milestones are achieved on time and within scope.

2. Organizational Coordination & Cross-Team Collaboration

Serve as the central hub connecting various program teams, fostering a culture of collaboration, transparency, and shared accountability.
Coordinate activities across different departments to maximize impact, avoid duplication, and ensure consistent messaging.
Facilitate external partnerships and alliances, representing ALI in collaborative efforts.

Track organizational commitments, upcoming deadlines, and cross-functional dependencies.
Brief internal teams on upcoming activities, decisions, and organizational priorities.

3. Program Management & Operational Excellence

Implement and uphold project management standards throughout the organization.
Lead or support initiatives that improve operational efficiency, clarity, and organizational structure.

Identify opportunities for process improvements using best practices, tools, and systems.
Manage internal calendars, capacity planning, and resource allocation to ensure deliverables are met.
Monitor program performance, KPIs, and organizational metrics regularly.

4. Communication, Stakeholder Engagement & Support

Maintain active relationships with external stakeholders, including partners, funders, and advocacy groups.
Support the MD in external communications and strategic outreach efforts.

Provide first-line support for internal team needs, questions, and operational requests.
Ensure internal communications are clear, timely, and aligned with organizational messaging.

5. Future Planning & Problem-Solving

Proactively identify potential risks, bottlenecks, and organizational challenges.
Develop systems and processes that streamline decision-making and enhance organizational agility.

Conduct research, synthesize data, and prepare analyses to inform strategic decisions.
Foster a culture of courage, respect, and continuous learning within the team.

Ideal Candidate Profile

This is a senior leadership role suited for someone with a proven track record in managing complex programs within non-profit, advocacy, or mission-driven organizations. The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

Extensive experience in campaign management, organizational leadership, or program delivery.
Strong skills in cross-team coordination, strategic planning, and project management.

Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to brief and influence senior stakeholders effectively.
Ability to work independently in a remote environment, with a flexible schedule aligned with North American time zones.

Demonstrated capacity for managing multiple priorities and adapting to fast-paced growth environments.
A passion for animal welfare, environmental issues, or advocacy work.

Desired Skills & Experience

Supporting senior leadership in nonprofits, advocacy, or public policy settings.
Managing organizational projects, initiatives, or campaigns.
Familiarity with project management tools and systems.

Engagement with external stakeholders, including partners, funders, and policy makers.
Experience working in or with environmental or animal advocacy organizations is highly desirable.
Strong organizational, interpersonal, and writing skills.
Ability to facilitate collaboration across diverse teams and organizations.

Qualifications & Requirements

Proven experience supporting senior leadership and managing organizational programs.
Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and initiatives.

Excellent strategic thinking, judgment, and discretion.
Experience in advocacy, environmental issues, or related fields is preferred.
A commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and collaborative work environment.

MORE JOBS AVAILABLE:

Benefits & Compensation

Salary Range: $85,000 – $105,000 USD annually, negotiable based on experience.
Work Environment: Fully remote, offering flexibility and work-life balance.

Travel: Some travel may be required for team retreats, conferences, or key organizational events.
Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing learning, skills enhancement, and leadership growth.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their application via the following link: Apply Here

The process involves a preliminary application review, followed by interviews with the ALI team, and potentially, further assessments to ensure the right fit for this critical leadership role.

APPLY HERE FOR THIS ROLE

Inclusion & Diversity Statement

Aquatic Life Institute is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and equitable work environment. They strongly encourage applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences. ALI believes that diverse teams drive innovation and effectiveness and welcomes all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of background.

Aquatic Life Institute is hiring: Chief Program Officer (Remote)

Job Description