Operations & Strategy Manager – Sustainable Aquaculture

About the role

AmpliAqua is a pre‑commercial innovation unit focused on sustainable and circular aquaculture. The Operations & Strategy Manager will provide operational and strategic leadership, linking the facility with clients, funders, partners and the wider aquaculture ecosystem.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate the facility team and manage the operational calendar, including maintenance, production cycles, harvests and partner visits.
• Maintain existing client relationships and develop new commercial opportunities across microalgae, plants, fish and test‑bed services.
• Identify, write and lead funding applications (e.g., Horizon Europe, PROMAR, FCT).
• Coordinate partnerships with research institutions, startups and SMEs using the facility as a pre‑commercial test‑bed.
• Represent AmpliAqua at sector events, conferences and networks.
• Oversee operational reporting, documentation and continuous process improvement.

Required profile

• Experience in operations coordination within a technical or scientific environment.
• Proven track record in developing commercial relationships and identifying business opportunities.
• Strategic thinker comfortable both in the field and in meeting rooms.
• Knowledge of agribusiness, agri‑food, biotech, aquaculture, circular bio‑economy or sustainable food systems.
• Autonomous, proactive and able to manage multiple stakeholders simultaneously.
• Fluent in Portuguese and English.
• Valued: existing network in research institutions, aquaculture producers and agri‑food stakeholders; experience in startups or early‑growth companies.

Required skills

What we offer

• Senior leadership role in one of Portugal's most advanced pre‑commercial Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture facilities.
• Direct exposure to innovation and R&D in aquaculture, microalgae, bioponics and circular bio‑economy.
• Flat, collaborative team where decisions have real impact.
• Based in Nazaré, a iconic coastal community.
• Competitive compensation aligned with experience.