Programme Officer - Policy Advice, P-4 (Readvertisement)

Secretariat of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)

Knowledge, Policy and Finance Centre (KPFC)

Indicative Annual Salary\:                              

(b) Post Adjustment\:                    USD 46,682.66 to USD 52,778.03        

Duration of Appointment\:                Two years, with possible extension

Date for Entry on Duty\:                    As soon as possible

(This is a re-advertisement of the vacancy announcement that closed on 7 August 2019. Candidates who previously applied need not apply again.)

The International Renewable Energy Agency is an inter-governmental organisation headquartered in Abu Dhabi, mandated to promote the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy in the pursuit of sustainable development, energy access, energy security and low-carbon economic growth and prosperity. IRENA’s mission is to play a leading role in the ongoing transformation of the global energy systems as a centre of excellence for knowledge and innovation, a global voice of renewable energy, a network hub for all stakeholders and a source of advice and support for countries.  At present, IRENA has 160 Members (159 States and the European Union) that acceded to its Statute, and 23 additional States in the process of accession and actively engaged.

Within this mandate, the focus of the Knowledge, Policy and Finance Centre (KPFC) is on collecting data, developing knowledge platforms and conducting analysis to support the creation of enabling environments for investment and growth in renewables. This entails analytical work on policy and finance, building a gateway to knowledge, giving input to advisory services that the Agency provides to its member states and at regional levels, and targeted engagement with the private sector and civil society.

Within KPFC, the Policy Unit provides policy-relevant and forward-looking analysis on renewable energy trends and developments to strengthen the business case for renewable energy, highlighting the contribution of renewables to broader policy objectives. The Unit focuses on specific analytical gaps and develops new knowledge that can support informed decision-making.

Under the supervision of the Head of Policy and overall guidance of the Director of Knowledge, Policy and Finance Centre, the Programme Officer will be responsible for the following duties\:

• Conduct in-depth research, reviews of academic literature and detailed analysis on renewable energy policy and economic trends, providing insights and recommendations to various policy-making target audiences (e.g. regional, local) to accelerate the deployment of renewables;
• Produce cutting-edge knowledge products on the assessment and identification of emerging trends in renewable energy policy, including in the context of broader macroeconomic, investment and energy trends, and develop tailored outputs in support of IRENA’s related policy work;
• Undertake analytical work regarding challenges and measures to promote the integration of renewable energy-based solutions to generate electricity, heating and cooling in e.g. the commercial and residential buildings, industry and transport sectors;
• Support the analysis of economic value creation in the context of renewable energy deployment that addresses the sector’s contribution to overall value added within an economy, such as growth and local content, as well as additional variables to be determined, taking into account the overall economic benefits that the renewable energy sector provides established markets and those with nascent renewable energy industries;

Professionalism\: Excellent knowledge of policy and market trends across a range of renewable energy technologies and the broader enabling framework for renewable energy deployment; sound understanding of policy processes in the energy sector at the national and international; general understanding of macroeconomic issues. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations.

Communication\: Excellent drafting skills in English is an essential requirement for this position. Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.

Teamwork\: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.

Accountability\: Takes ownership for all responsibilities and honours commitments; delivers outputs for which one has responsibility within prescribed time, cost and quality standards; supports subordinates, provides oversight and takes ownership of delegated responsibilities and authorities; takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit, where applicable; operates in compliance with organizational regulations and rules.

Client Orientation\: Considers all those to whom services are provided to be “clients” and seeks to see things from clients’ point of view; establishes and maintains productive partnerships with clients by gaining their trust and respect; identifies clients’ needs and matches them to appropriate solutions; monitors on going developments inside and outside the clients’ environment to keep informed and anticipate problems; keeps clients informed.

Education\: Advanced University degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in economics, public policy, energy policy, or engineering, with a strong emphasis on quantitative analysis. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Experience\: A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in policy programme development, and analysis of data and production of reports, preferably related to the energy sector; a proven track record of producing peer-reviewed publications and evidence of profound understanding of the renewable energy sector would be an asset.; experience in international co-operation and in dealing with multilateral agencies and forums.

Language\: Excellent command of written and spoken English is required. Knowledge of other languages is desirable.

IRENA reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post.

Qualified candidates must apply for the above-mentioned vacancy on-line, through IRENA’s recruitment platform, Taleo by submitting a complete and comprehensive CV and a letter of interest, including details of three professional references who will be contacted if their application is shortlisted.

Please note that only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted for an interview and will receive notice of the outcome of the selection process.

[1] IRENA provides similar ICSC benefits and entitlements, including rental subsidy, education grant (for school aged children), annual leave, health insurance, provident fund, etc.