Shape the Future of Our Seas

Become an IFCA Member and help protect England’s inshore waters, support coastal communities and influence the future of marine conservation.

The ten Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authorities (IFCAs) are looking for dedicated people to become IFCA Members and help make decisions that support sustainable fisheries, thriving marine habitats, and resilient coastal communities.

Whether your background is in fishing, marine conservation, science, local business, recreation or you have a strong connection to your local marine environment, becoming an IFCA Member is a unique opportunity to make a real impact.

What is an IFCA Member?

IFCAs have a duty to manage sea fisheries resources and the marine environment in England out to six nautical miles, with powers to write and enforce byelaws to manage fishing, including within Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

IFCA Members sit on local IFCA committees and play a vital role in helping to manage and protect these environments. As a Member of the Authority, you will work alongside experts, stakeholders and local communities to help shape local decisions that balance commercial, recreational, and environmental interests to ensure sustainable fisheries and healthy seas for the future.

It’s a voluntary role that can make a real influence, giving you an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of your local marine environment and network with experts and decision-makers in your area.

Why Become an IFCA Member?

As an IFCA Member, you can:

• Help protect your local marine environment
• Support sustainable fisheries and coastal livelihoods
• Influence important local decisions
• Bring local knowledge and experience to the table
• Work with scientists, industry representatives, conservationists and communities
• Develop your understanding of local marine policies and governance
• Make a long-lasting impact in your local area

Members are appointed from a wide range of backgrounds including from the commercial and recreational sector, marine conservation and environmental organisations, coastal communities, local authorities and academia.

About the Role

• Voluntary position
• Rolling application process – apply at any time
• Total time commitment varies between IFCAs but generally equates to between one to two days per month
• Training and induction provided
• Travel and subsistence expenses usually reimbursed

Whether you are looking to contribute your experience and knowledge, start a career in the marine and fisheries sector, or play a meaningful role in your local community, becoming an IFCA Member provides an exciting and rewarding opportunity.

Find Out More – Watch Our New Animation Series

If you’re new to IFCAs or new to what is involved in becoming an IFCA Member, watch our new animations below.

What are IFCAs?

What do IFCA Members do?

How can I get involved?

You can also find out more information about the role of IFCA Members by reading our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) here.

Who are we looking for?

People who:

• Care about coastal communities and the marine environment
• Can consider different viewpoints, think objectively and contribute to balanced decision-making
• Have strong local knowledge of their IFCA district
• Want to contribute to sustainable fisheries and healthy seas
• Are interested in shaping local decision-making

You do not need to be an expert to apply.

How to Apply

Applications for IFCA Member roles are open on a rolling basis, so you can apply at any time. They are reviewed on a quarterly basis, and interviews for shortlisted candidates follow soon after. Appointments are managed by the Marine Management Organisation (MMO).

Applications are welcomed from:

• New candidates with relevant experience and local insight
• Current General Members approaching the end of their ten-year term
• Former members who have already served a ten-year term

Apply through the GOV.UK website here.