About the European Climate Foundation

The European Climate Foundation (ECF) is a major philanthropic initiative working to help tackle the climate crisis by fostering the development of a net-zero emission society at the national, European and global level.

We support over 1000 partner organisations to carry out activities that drive urgent and ambitious policy in support of the objectives of the Paris Agreement, contribute to the public debate on climate action and help deliver a socially responsible transition to a net-zero economy and sustainable society in Europe and around the world.

The ECFis brings together diverse perspectives and backgrounds to find the best innovative solutions to tackle climate change. We are committed to engaging and hiring people from a wide diversity of backgrounds to strengthen the cause. If you share our values of respect, innovation, and collaboration, join us.

European countries have significantly accelerated domestic climate action over the past five years thanks to the European Green Deal. The implementation of European policies and the ongoing debates on climate policies will be a challenge for local civil society because of increased polarisation. At the same time, the perspective of the next European enlargement in the next decade will bring closer together EU and non-EU countries.

The Director will set the direction of ECF activities closest to the ground. They will build on the well-established networks and actors and put forward new approaches and alliances to solve the local politics of climate action.

The ECF is looking for a talented, dynamic, experienced, and strategic individual to help shape the programs’ next phase of development so that they can best respond to the evolving political context. The geographic scope of the role can evolve in the future to match the needs of ECF strategies.

Key responsibilities

• Working with the Executive Director to develop a strategic framework for ECF’s engagement in the region (Czechia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Croatia) and in Ukraine;
• Working closely with the ECF international, country and sectorial programmes teams to develop joint approaches, including developing and managing local projects where appropriate;
• Design and implement a renewed program strategy together with the teams and the Executive Director;
• Curate a network of external stakeholders and opinion leaders in and around the countries to inform political strategies;
• Maintaining relationships with grantees and other partners to support strong collaboration and a creative shared approach to problem-solving;
• Engaging closely with ECF’s funders (incl. fundraising) and other members of the philanthropic community across Europe and elsewhere;
• Represent ECF externally at stakeholder meetings and events, convene stakeholders and design new activities to ensure shared priorities and strategy.

Experience and competencies

• University degree or equivalent;
• At least ten years of relevant professional experience in relation to European and/or climate issues
• A deep understanding of the national political contexts and advocacy strategies;
• Proven management and leadership skills, including leading public affairs or advocacy campaigns and being a successful and caring team leader;
• Collaborative-minded, with experience in large organisations;
• Excellent written and verbal communication in English, with the ability to crystallise complex issues into practical and readable strategy documents. The ability to speak other European languages is welcome;
• Enthusiastic personality and a sense of humour.

What we offer

• The unique opportunity to work as part of a highly dynamic, international group of individuals who combine their passion to make a difference with a rigorous and results-oriented approach to work.
• A flexible work environment and a space to develop and challenge yourself.
• A permanent contract.

Location

ECF “hubs” in the region (Warsaw, Budapest, and, preferentially, Prague). Working from home from the region can be considered in case of the right profile.

Start date

As soon as possible

How to apply

• Please upload your CV (in English) + cover letter

Assessment will be a part of the recruitment procedure.

All applications will be treated confidentially. We will store your information in our internal database unless you specifically request otherwise.

Diversity statement

We are committed to diversity and inclusion in our organisation. We strongly encourage

candidates from disadvantaged or marginalised backgrounds to apply.