The need to transition to a low-carbon future with renewable energy is essential to meeting the threat of climate change; however, renewable energy development also runs into problems of "energy sprawl" which often conflict with nature conservation goals. While this is a global challenge, the issue is particularly salient in the Western Balkans, where a large hydropower development boom threatens many of Europe's most intact freshwater ecosystems.
To meet this challenge, TNC seeks to advance science-based strategies to facilitate the expansion of renewable energy in a manner that avoids and minimizes, to the fullest extent possible, impacts to natural systems. To accomplish this, we work in a collaborative, non-confrontational manner with a wide array of partners (NGOs, financial institutions, government agencies, researchers, and others). The Southeastern Europe Program Manager will be tasked with managing and executing TNC's strategies for the advancement of more sustainable energy systems in the Western Balkans.
The Southeastern Europe Program Manager will be a key member of TNC's Global Water and Europe teams, which are focused on protecting the outstanding freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems of southeastern Europe through smart-from-the start planning for renewable energy infrastructure. To achieve this goal, s/he will establish and help maintain highly effective strategic partnerships with government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and NGO partners utilizing TNC's wealth of scientific, policy, and stewardship expertise.
This is a hands-on position with the individual working cooperatively and closely with a variety of key actors. S/he will be expected to work on the ground while innovatively managing the growth and development of TNC's work in southeastern Europe. The position will liaise with the Global Water Program, and Conservation Lands/Development by Design Program and report to and take direction from the Europe Program Senior Policy Advisor.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Negotiate agreements (e.g., MOU’s, contracts, policy positions) in a complex political environment.
- Formulate, organize and monitor inter-connected projects and decide, in coordination with Management, on suitable strategies and objectives.
- Coordinate cross project activities.
- Manage deadlines, related budgets and implement/complete action tasks.
- Collaborate with the European Region, Global Water and Global Lands Programs to advance strategic partnerships with policymaking bodies, energy industry, utilities, agencies, conservation organization.
- Advance science based strategies to integrate conservation planning into the Western Balkans long term energy planning.
- Represent the program for key partners and stakeholders. e.g. European Union, Parliament, national governments, WWF Adria Office, etc…
- Manage the production and delivery of strategic publications and reports.
- Coordinate research efforts: Initiate, coordinate and produce analyses and position papers to advance TNC strategies.
- May provide support to administrative, marketing, and fundraising functions.
- Lead implementation of TNC strategies related to this geography.
- Carry out project administration functions, e.g. setting up, attending and reporting from meetings, representing the project, organizing travel logistics, etc.
- Work in a complex, often ambiguous and dynamic environment.
- Willing and able to travel frequently internationally.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience in partnership development with public and private institutions (e.g. government agencies, development banks, non-profit organizations).
- Strong command of English language, written and spoken.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- Working knowledge of European Union and European (region and/or country level) policies/government relations, particularly energy policy.
- Strong and proven project management experience.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience and working knowledge in the energy sector, including expertise and/or experience in regional planning and investments for energy development.
- Experience influencing, developing and implementing conservation policies and plans
- Proficiency in languages spoken in SE Europe
- Cross-cultural experience appreciated.
- Conversant and knowledgeable in science and environmental management.
- Knowledge and experience in fundraising.
- Politically savvy and negotiation skills.
- Familiarity with the Western Balkans culture (e.g., language, political dynamics, etc.) is highly desirable.
- Experience and working knowledge of global and regional financial institutions.
- Extensive mid to high level network in the renewable energy public and private sectors
Salary Grade: 7
The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Our commitment to diversity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of men and women of diverse backgrounds, beliefs and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization that reflects our global character is a priority and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.