Lead – Engagement and Outreach (Odisha)

The International Forum for Environment, Sustainability & Technology (iFOREST), is looking for an experienced and dynamic professional to lead the organisation’s research and policy engagement in the Clean Energy Programme.

A successful applicant must have a proven aptitude for engagement and outreach and multi-stakeholder engagement, comprehensive knowledge of clean energy technologies, policy and regulatory landscape, and excellent communication skills.

The candidate must clearly understand and appreciate the role played by think tanks in shaping public policy and supporting their implementation. 

Location: Bhubaneswar, India

Type: On-premise

Required Experience: 8+ years

Education: Master’s Degree (Preferable)

Reporting to: Regional Director, Clean Energy

iFOREST

iFOREST is an independent not-for-profit research and innovation organisation that was established in 2019 to identify, promote and scale up solutions for pressing environment-development challenges in India and other developing countries in Asia and Africa.

Our work is rooted in regional priorities to accelerate environmental actions at the sub-national level and to improve national policies and plans to support it. Our mission is to address the unique needs of regions by leveraging our resources and expertise to scale up national action and make a global impact. We use our regional knowledge to inform national policy and plans and strengthen international collaboration.

To achieve our goals, we conduct independent evidence-based research, develop new knowledge and innovative solutions, convene stakeholders to increase awareness and build consensus, and partner with think tanks, civil society, government agencies, philanthropies and industry to scale up solutions.

The Clean Energy Programme

The Clean Energy programme of iFOREST focuses on the issue of growing regional imbalance in India’s renewable energy (RE) expansion. Given that the installed capacity of RE is mainly focused in the southern and western states, the Clean Energy programme seeks to catalyse inclusive green energy transitions in the eastern and northeastern states. The programme aims to support the development of RE, including distributed RE, in ‘low-RE’ states to meet the 500 GW target by 2030.

To achieve this objective, iFOREST works closely with implementors, regulators and policymakers at the state level, industry representatives, and civil society/ research organisations. The work cuts across independent research, structured engagement and implementation support initiatives. 

In Odisha, iFOREST is working closely with GRIDCO Limited and Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA) to provide  comprehensive technical and capacity building support for implementing the Odisha Renewable Energy Policy, 2022.

The Role

As the Lead – Engagement & Outreach, you will be instrumental in developing and implementing strategies to enhance Organization’s visibility, community engagement, and communication efforts. This role requires a dynamic individual with experience in outreach, stakeholder engagement, and communication within the energy sector. The successful candidate will work closely with internal teams to drive initiatives aligned with Organization’s objectives.

Stakeholder Engagement:

  • Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with diverse stakeholders in the energy sector, including government bodies, industry partners, community organizations, and NGOs.

 Communication:

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex energy-related topics in a clear and accessible manner.
  • Proficiency in creating compelling content for various platforms, including press releases, articles, social media, and other communication channels.

 Strategic Outreach:

  • Experience in developing and executing outreach strategies to promote organizational initiatives, achievements, and policy recommendations.
  • Proven ability to identify and cultivate strategic partnerships and collaborations within the energy industry.

 Event Management:

  • Strong organizational and project management skills to plan and coordinate events, workshops, and webinars related to energy topics.
  • Attention to detail in managing logistics, invitations, and follow-up activities for events.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

  • Analytical skills to track and assess engagement metrics and communication effectiveness.
  • Ability to generate and present regular reports to internal stakeholders, highlighting key performance indicators and areas for improvement.

Industry Knowledge:

  • Familiarity with energy-related issues, policies, and trends, demonstrating a clear understanding of the energy sector’s landscape.

Adaptability:

  • Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and navigate a dynamic and evolving energy landscape.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple projects simultaneously.

Problem-solving:

  • Strong problem-solving skills to address challenges and obstacles that may arise in engagement and outreach initiatives.

Technology Proficiency:

  • Familiarity with relevant tools and technologies for communication, event management, and data analysis.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and social media platforms

Support Day-to-Day Activities of iFOREST Regional Office:

  • Collaborate with the iFOREST Regional Office team to provide support for daily operations and ensure smooth functioning.
  • Assist in coordinating regional events, meetings, and activities related to energy sector engagement.
  • Act as a liaison between the central office and the regional team, facilitating effective communication and collaboration.

Newsletter Generation:

  • Develop and manage the production of a monthly newsletter highlighting key developments in the energy sector at both domestic and international levels.
  • Compile updates on regional office progress, projects, and achievements to be featured in the newsletter.
  • Collaborate with internal teams to gather relevant content, success stories, and data for inclusion in the newsletter.
  • Distribute the newsletter to stakeholders, subscribers, and the broader community through various communication channels.

Qualification & Work Experience

Bachelor’s degree (minimum) in Communications, Public Relations, Energy Policy, etc. or a related field from a reputable institution. A master’s degree is preferred.

8 to 10 years of work experience in engagement, outreach, communication, or a related field within the energy sector. Proven success in building and maintaining stakeholder relationships, preferably in the energy industry.

What we offer

At iFOREST, we offer an inclusive and amicable work environment. In addition, our institution strongly supports professional development through education, training and capacity building.

Remuneration

We offer highly competitive salaries in a think tank space, and reward performance through annual appraisals. The final designation of a successful candidate will be based on qualifications and experience.

Application instructions & deadline

We prefer that candidates submit online applications at https://iforest.global/careers/. In case of any difficulties, you may also send your application to contact@iforest.global.

Applications must include a CV and cover letter. Please ensure that the cover letter is no more than 500 words and clearly describes your suitability for the described position and your motivation to join iFOREST. CVs without a cover letter will not be considered.  

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Position open until filled.

 

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