WWF-New Zealand Position Description
May 2015
Research and Policy Officer
(starting salary between NZ$65,000 – NZ$75,000 p.a. depending on skills & experience)
Purpose of the Position
In collaboration with other members of the Campaigns Team, to develop and implement
WWF- New Zealand’s campaign strategy in order to achieve change on all priority work
areas. The focus of this position is on undertaking research, policy analysis and behind-thescenes advocacy on the range of issues WWF works on to help achieve campaign objectives.
Responsible to
Head of Campaigns
Direct Reports
No direct line reports. There may be instances where this position manages volunteers or
external research contractors.
Main Working Relationships
Internal
Head of Campaigns
Campaigner
Communications Manager
Executive Director
Head of Projects and team staff
Head of Fundraising and Operations, and team staff
WWF International networks.
External
Relevant:
 government officials
 scientists
 academics
 non governmental organisations
 companies
Other Relevant Information
WWF’s campaigns work encompasses a range of issues as well as a range of tactics and
disciplines. All of our campaigning work is based on using robust science, economics and
policy analysis to create a solid rationale for change and then identifying and reaching out to
target audiences in the most effective and persuasive way we can. All parts of WWF are vital
to achieving our mission. This position will work very closely with the Head of Campaigns,
the Campaigner and the Communications Manager. It will provide the intellectual foundation
for our campaigns and will be instrumental in providing the rigorous analysis and compelling
arguments – as well as thinking creatively about how best to do this – in order to achieve the
changes we seek. In the near-term our priorities will be sustainable fisheries, climate change,
marine protection and marine species but the emphasis will shift over time and new areas of
work will be developed so flexibility is essential.
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Responsibilities of the Position
1. In collaboration with colleagues, assist in the development of WWF-New Zealand’s
campaign strategy and work planning.
2. In collaboration with colleagues, implement campaign strategy and associated work plans
through, as and when required by the strategy:
 Undertaking research across a range of disciplines using both formally published
and grey literature, to inform and support priority campaigns
 Undertaking policy analysis and developing policy positions across a range of
issues that can be used in all priority campaigns
 Producing written research/policy reports, briefings and oral briefings for external
audiences and for colleagues on all priority campaigns
 Maintaining an adequate level of issue knowledge on all of WWF’s priority
campaigns
 Engaging in behind-the-scenes advocacy with relevant target audiences identified
in priority campaign strategies (e.g. government officials and companies)
 Developing and maintaining relationships with relevant external contacts (e.g.
academia, government officials, other NGOs) on all priority campaigns
 Developing and maintaining relationships with relevant colleagues in the WWF
international network
 Working in partnership with other NGOs and with companies on priority
campaigns, as appropriate
 Helping to maximise fundraising, marketing and communications opportunities on
all priority campaigns (including proofing of materials)
3. Develop an understanding of new issues that WWF may wish to prioritise in future
4. Contribute, as required, to the Campaigns annual plan, Board reports, and to the strategic
development of the organisation.
5. Assist the Head of Campaigns in seeking funding and reporting back to funders.
6. Undertake any other duties as may be required from time to time, as agreed with the Head
of Campaigns.
Skills and Experience Required
Essential
1. Experience of, and demonstrable competence in, understanding and interpreting scientific
information.
2. Experience of, and demonstrable competence in, understanding and interpreting social
science information, in particular economics.
3. Experience of, and demonstrable competence in, translating complex science and social
science into policy positions and compelling arguments.
4. Experience of, and demonstrable competence in, producing high quality written research
reports and briefings for external audiences.
5. Experience of, and demonstrable competence in, quickly developing expertise on new
issues sufficient to advocate change, and advocating change to external audiences.
6. Demonstrable knowledge of legislative process and environmental policy.
7. Excellent written communication skills, in particular experience of promptly producing
concise copy in various forms.
8. Experience of, and demonstrable competence in, delivering work to tight deadlines.
9. Experience of, and demonstrable competence in, prioritising work load when faced with
multiple demands on time.
10. Experience of developing relationships with a range of stakeholders (in particular,
government officials and non-government organisations).
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11. Experience of, and demonstrable competence in, maintaining a working knowledge on a
range of issues.
12. Experience of, and demonstrable competence in, working collaboratively as part of a
small team.
Desirable
1. Experience and demonstrable understanding of developing campaign strategy.
2. Experience and demonstrable understanding of working with companies in a campaigning
context.
3. Experience and demonstrable understanding of raising money from, and reporting back to,
funders.
4. Up to date knowledge of a range of New Zealand environmental issues, policies and
legislation
Personal Attributes Required
1. A commitment to WWF’s values and an enthusiasm for being part of our mission to build
a future where people live in harmony with nature.
2. A commitment to and recognition of the Treaty of Waitangi.
3. A commitment to and recognition of the Equal Employment Opportunities principles.
4. An ability to focus on delivering an agreed work plan.
5. An ability to manage and prioritise work load.
6. An ability and commitment to work collaboratively as part of a small team.
7. An ability to act with tact and diplomacy in the face of provocation.
8. An appreciation of the social and political context of campaigning (why campaigning is
needed and how campaigning works).
9. Knowledge and interest in environmental issues without a personal political agenda.
10. An understanding of the inherent challenges of working with a wide range of people with
divergent views and backgrounds.
11. An energetic and professional self-starter, able to lead and motivate by example.
12. A willingness to adapt and take on new professional skills and develop new areas of
expertise.
13. A positive approach, able to persevere when faced with obstacles and find solutions.
14. An ability to demonstrate integrity, inspire trust and resolve conflict.
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