Senior Associate, Climate Policy

Job Purpose

UICCA is seeking a Climate Policy Senior Associate, Policy and Research to conduct both quantitative and qualitative analysis for policy development in the field of climate change and facilitate policy dialogues. As a key member of our team, you will play a crucial role in advancing our mission to tackle the complex challenges of climate change through evidence-based research and impactful policy advocacy. Synthesizing information and drafting high-quality policy reports will be essential to this role. This is a full-time, paid position.

Key Responsibilities

1. Policy Development:
2. a.  Research and analyse climate policy developments in the UAE and internationally.
3. b. Produce high-quality research and content (e.g., policy briefs, reports, case, studies, blogs 
4. c. Contribute to the development and implementation of policies by identifying trends related to sustainability and the transition to a green economy.
5. d. Ensure a range of stakeholders' positions are accounted for in the policy development process. Support the facilitation of policy hacks to drive consensus, distill input into insights, and drive meaningful progress.
6. e. Synthesize information and draft high-quality policy reports.
7. f. Develop and advocate for policies that promote renewable energy, energy efficiency, and climate resilience. 
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9. Stakeholder Engagement:
10. a. Build strong relationships with government officials, partner organizations, and industry representatives.
11. b. Support the Senior Manager, Policy and Research in developing funding proposals and project plans.
12. c. Develop and manage strategic partnerships with agencies, NGOs, and academic institutions to support our mission and climate priorities.
13. d. Coordinate meetings and presentations to advance policy initiatives and projects.
14. e. Support the development of strategies and initiatives to address climate priorities and UICCA partner objectives.
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16. Policy Advocacy & External Communication:
17. a. Conduct strategic outreach to officials at local and federal levels.
18. b. Provide input to the planning of conference agendas and programs.
19. c. Present our climate work to potential donors and supporters.
20. d. Prepare presentations and other materials for meetings and conferences.
21. e. Represent the organization in public forums, conduct briefings, and participate in panels to promote climate policies. 
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23. Alliance Support:
24. a. Develop content required for the operation of the UAE Carbon Alliance and the SME Sustainability Alliance. 
25. b. Support the effective management of the Alliances, as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Advanced degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, climate change policy, public policy, international relations, or a related discipline.
• 5-7 years of experience in the climate/environmental arena, specifically with research, policy analysis, and advocacy.
• At least 3 years of experience related to energy efficiency, waste management, scope 1/2/3 decarbonisation, circular economy, and/or waste management.
• Experience developing and implementing national climate policies and initiatives, with a focus on UAE policy analysis and policy-making processes preferred.
• Deep knowledge of climate policy frameworks and international climate agreements (e.g., Paris Agreement, Sustainable Development Goals), as well as emerging trends and developments in the field.
• Strong research, analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information, analyse policy options, and develop practical recommendations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences. Fluency in written and spoken English is essential; fluency in written and spoken Arabic is preferred.
• Experience in managing project plans and budgets. 
• Proven ability to build and maintain effective partnerships with stakeholders from government, academia, civil society, and the private sector.