Aquaculture Standards Innovation Manager

Aquaculture Standards Innovation Manager

Location: Edinburgh or Home Based (with regular UK travel and occasional international travel)

Salary: £40,000 – £44,010 pa (FTE), pro-rata £32,000 – £35,208 (0.8 FTE)

Hours: Part-time, 28 hours per week (0.8 FTE)

Contract Type: Fixed Term - 12 Months

Interviews: Interviews will take place online on Tuesday the 10th March 2026.

About our Organisation  

The Soil Association, formed in 1946, is the only UK charity which works across the spectrum of human health, the environment and animal welfare. That’s because we cannot tackle these issues in isolation. 

We campaign for change, we support farming innovation, we serve healthy food in communities, we support and grow the organic market, and we protect forests. We couldn't do any of this without our supporters, partners, donors and dedicated staff. We make a difference in the world where it’s needed the most.  

About the Opportunity  

Aquaculture is the fastest-growing farming sector globally, and this role places you at the heart of a rapidly evolving and influential industry. It offers a unique opportunity to shape and advance the Soil Association’s organic standards to strengthen environmental sustainability and improve welfare outcomes for farmed fish. Working across diverse and sometimes competing perspectives—including government, academia, rural communities, and aquaculture operators throughout Scotland—you will help build consensus on complex and high-impact challenges. The role offers the chance to deliver meaningful change in a sector that has a significant impact on Scotland’s rural economy and environment.

About You  

With first-hand experience of aquaculture, you understand the challenges facing the industry and have the energy to find the right solutions to overcome them. You’re great at quickly building relationships, appreciating the perspectives of a wide range of stakeholders and skilled at facilitating meetings to reach consensus. You easily grasp technical details, confidently working within regulatory frameworks and using your strong project management skills to ensure succinct board papers and updated standards documents are delivered on time.

Our Benefits 

We offer a range of financial and lifestyle benefits to all our employees, including:   

• 27 days annual holiday increasing to 30 days with length of service plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time)  

• Pension scheme with ethical investment options and employer contribution increasing with length of service  

• Free membership of the Soil Association and discounts on organic produce  

• Volunteer days to give back to the local community or support green initiatives  

• Family friendly policies and flexible working   

• Cycle to work scheme  

• Sociable and engaging workplace of professionals that share a passion for healthy, sustainable lifestyle and produce  

  

To Apply  

Click ‘apply now’ to submit your application form. Please note we look at applications on arrival and reserve the right to close this vacancy early.  

Please check your junk/spam folder if you do not receive a confirmation email upon submitting your application. All candidates will subsequently receive an email to confirm whether they have made it through to interview stage.  

For any queries, please contact recruitment@soilassociation.org  

Please note we do not accept CVs or Cover Letters.  

We know the value of diversity in nature and want it in our organisation. We recognise that diverse backgrounds and experiences will bring a fresh perspective to our work. If you're not sure about applying, please get in touch with us for a chat.  

Thank you for your interest in supporting our work at the Soil Association.