Ocean Unite’s mission is to deliver the science-based target of strongly protecting at least 30 percent of the ocean by 2030 (30x30) and to build ocean resilience on a global scale. It was founded in 2015 and incubated by Virgin Unite. Its track record of success, including helping to strongly protect more than 5 million km2 of the ocean, demonstrated an opportunity to go independent but the small organization needed support managing the myriad tasks associated with it.
Karen initially came on board to create and implement a fundraising strategy to secure funds for Ocean Unite’s first two years as a non-profit. Her role quickly grew to include managing the application to the IRS to become a tax-exempt organization, coordinating with the incubator staff to transition operational responsibilities and recruiting the Board of Directors and putting in place the governance structure for the new organization. Now that Ocean Unite has obtained its non-profit status, Karen has become an integral part of the team, managing board and donor relations, leading a commercial co-venture program that provides essential general support for the organization and planning events and convenings to showcase its work. |
HIGHLIGHTS
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“The fundraising and operational expertise Karen brings to Ocean Unite rounds out our team of campaign and communications specialists, positioning us to be able to quickly respond to opportunities that further our mission. Her depth of experience working with funders and board members allows us to talk in shorthand, and keeps the majority of staff resources focused on programmatic objective.” |