Social Media & Content Officer

About Nekton

Nekton is an independent, UK-registered ocean exploration institute headquartered in Oxford. Founded in 2015, its mission is to advance the scientific exploration of the ocean — fast, open, and at the scale the ocean demands — so that it is understood, protected and valued as the foundation of all life on Earth.

Nekton runs scientific expeditions to unexplored ocean depths, generates open-access research to inform marine protection and policy, and works to bring ocean science to a global audience. Its alliance spans over 190 partners and a network of more than 650 institutes across 85 nations. Nekton also leads Ocean Census, the largest active global programme to accelerate the discovery of ocean life.

Role Summary

The Social Media and Content Officer is a dynamic, creative role responsible for the day-to-day delivery of social media, digital content creation and general communications support across Nekton and its affiliated programmes.

Reporting to the Communications Lead, with supervision from the Digital Communications Manager, the role combines hands-on social media management — short-form video, graphics and copy — with operational support across website CMS maintenance, digital asset management, email marketing and event logistics. The ideal candidate is an engaging digital storyteller who thrives in a fast-paced environment and brings strong organisational skills to multi-channel campaigns.

Key Responsibilities

Programme Focus

• Ocean Census: social media content creation, channel management, web updating and asset organisation.
• Nekton and affiliated programmes (e.g. First Descent, Yachts for Science, Ocean Rising): scheduled social content delivery, community support and cross-programme digital coordination.
• Events and logistics support: assisting with digital, in-person and expedition-related events and merchandise coordination as required.

Social Media & Community Management (priority task)

• Plan, write, schedule and deliver day-to-day social media content across Nekton and affiliated channels (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, X, BlueSky, YouTube).
• Actively manage daily community engagement, responding to comments, direct messages and network news in a timely, tone-appropriate manner.
• Maintain brand voice and visual consistency across all platforms and sub-programmes.

Content Creation & Asset Management

• Produce visually engaging digital assets, including static posts, graphics and short-form vertical video (Reels) optimised for social channels.
• Create and maintain reusable design templates in Canva, managing organised folder structures and brand asset libraries for all programmes.
• Work with scientists, expedition teams and partners to translate complex marine science into accessible, captivating stories.

CMS, Email & Digital Support

• Perform routine website updates and maintenance via the Content Management System (CMS) to keep news, blogs and project pages fresh and accurate.
• Assist in drafting, building and distributing regular e-newsletters (e.g. Mailchimp) to keep stakeholders and the network informed.
• Support paid social campaign execution and pull regular performance data for reporting.

Events, Logistics & Operational Support

• Support the coordination and logistics of in-person events, conferences and online webinars, including preparing digital promo assets and presentation materials.
• Assist with the inventory management, distribution and coordination of branded merchandise and expedition apparel.
• Provide general administrative support to the Digital Communications Manager and Communications Lead during major campaigns and announcements.

Experience, Skills and Personal Attributes

Essential

• Two years' experience in multi-channel social media content production and management.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience in marketing, communications, digital media, environmental science or a related field.
• Proven track record in managing organic social media channels, creating short-form vertical video and building online communities.
• Proficiency in graphic design tools (particularly Canva) and basic video editing software.
• Experience with website Content Management Systems (CMS) and email marketing platforms (e.g. Mailchimp).
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple deliverables, calendars and assets under tight deadlines.
• Ability to work independently as a self-starter while collaborating within a multi-disciplinary team.

Desirable

• Experience working within marine conservation, ocean science or non-profit sectors.
• Basic understanding of paid social campaign setup and social analytics.
• Proficiency in French or Spanish to assist with multilingual content.

Diversity Statement

Nekton is working towards being an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applicants of all races, religions, colours, national origins, genders, sexual orientations, ages, marital statuses and disability statuses, and are committed to providing reasonable accommodations and flexible working arrangements so that every candidate has the support they need.

This job description is not contractual. From time to time, the organisation may make reasonable changes to the duties set out above.