Position:  Climate Advisor
Location: Global / Remote. ID is established in the United States, United Kingdom, and Switzerland (New York, Washington, London, Geneva) with additional personnel operating globally. ID will consider applicants outside of its core locations, but benefits packages and contract type will vary based on locality. The successful candidate should be comfortable with a flexible, hybrid role which will include a combination of work from home and co-working space depending on location. This role will require travel. Candidates must have the legal right to work in the location they are applying to work in.
Hours:  Full-time
Closing date for applications:  April 20
Remuneration: Competitive salary and benefits package provided, including unlimited leave policy and flexible working arrangements. Varies by location.

BACKGROUND

Independent Diplomat (ID) is a unique non‐profit venture in the world of international relations, diplomacy and conflict prevention. ID offers independent and confidential advice and assistance on diplomatic strategy to governments, political groups, international institutions, and non‐governmental organizations.

ID has advised the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) at the highest level since 2009. This partnership has helped transform the low-lying island state into one of the most influential climate leaders on the international stage. ID provides technical and strategic advice, in-the-room support during negotiations, and communications and legal advice. ID works with RMI to ensure that it is a prominent voice for vulnerable countries and advocate for climate ambition and climate justice.

ID worked with RMI to form the High Ambition Coalition (HAC) in the run up to the Paris Agreement. ID operates as the coalition’s Secretariat, helping develop strategies and policy recommendations for members, coordinating the group, and managing all logistics. The HAC, with RMI’s leadership, has secured some of the most critical components of recent COP outcomes, including the COP26 decision to double climate adaptation funding and the COP28 commitment to transition away from fossil fuels.

RMI is also a major force behind efforts to cut emissions in international shipping, including new decarbonization targets, and is currently leading efforts to secure a universal GHG levy on emissions in the International Maritime Organization. ID also supports RMI’s mission in Geneva, linking work on human rights and climate change.

PURPOSE

The Climate Advisor will be responsible for formulating and delivering political advice and support to ID’s partner, the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) Government. The role is likely to include:

  • Policy delivery: Providing advice on diplomatic strategy and negotiations, including in the UNFCCC as well as other relevant fora. This may include, for example, developing draft texts, providing background research and analysis to inform and support negotiating positions, and briefing ministers, envoys and ambassadors. We are particularly interested in candidates who bring knowledge of climate adaptation and climate finance.
  • Technical advice: While much of our support focuses on RMI’s international efforts, we also provide support on the implementation of climate policies nationally. At COP28, RMI published its National Adaptation Plan, and implementing this plan will be a priority in the coming years. ID support may include identifying good practice in and support for adaptation implementation.
  • Relationship management: The ID ethos centers on being led by the partners we advise. The candidate will sustain and build strong relationships of trust with representatives of the RMI Government, particularly the Climate Change Directorate and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • Public diplomacy: Providing support on communications and media engagement, including advising on messaging, outreach to media contacts, and social media to maximise impact;
  • Project management, including project planning, monitoring project progress, and regular reporting to the client and donors.
  • Fundraising: all staff are expected to support efforts to secure the funding required to sustain our work. The candidate will support relationship management with existing donors, conduct outreach to new donors, and develop project proposals, in collaboration with the ID Director – Global Threats and ID’s Managing Director.

REQUIREMENTS

  • 7+ years of previous experience in climate politics and diplomacy, and a demonstrable understanding of the political dynamics surrounding the international response to climate change.
  • A strong understanding of climate adaptation. Experience with the implementation of climate adaptation projects, and/or of relevant negotiations, would be a very strong asset;   
  • Excellent analytical skills, with an ability to translate analysis into political action;
  • Familiarity with the technical aspects of international climate change negotiations;
  • Familiarity with the climate change and sustainable development-related challenges of small island developing states would be a strong asset;
  • Media savvy, with an ability to use communications to further diplomatic objectives;
  • Excellent writing and communication skills;
  • A relevant university degree;
  • Experience working with a geographically diverse team;  
  • Personable and creative self-motivator with a strong work ethic and a willingness to work flexibly;
  • Commitment to Independent Diplomat’s mission.
  • The successful candidate may be required to register under the US Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA).

We are a small and nimble team, and the successful candidate will bring enthusiasm and flexibility to the role. Candidates with experience and skills in some but not all of the areas above are encouraged to apply.

Independent Diplomat is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions based on qualification and merit.  Our objective is to encourage diversity and have the best available person in every job.  ID’s policy prohibits discrimination based on race, color, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, sex (including pregnancy), religion, marital status, familial status, age, alienage or citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristics, sexual orientation, military status, domestic violence victim status or any other unlawful consideration.

APPLICATIONS 

Please submit a two-page CV and one-page cover letter demonstrating your suitability for the position to [email protected] by April 20th, indicating “[SURNAME] – Climate Advisor” in the email subject line. 

The cover letter should:

  • Explain the reasons for your interest in this position;
  • Demonstrate your suitability for the role;
  • Indicate your available start date / notice periods with current employment.
  • Indicate the location you are applying to work in;

The CV should include the names and contact details of two references.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to a large expected number of applicants, we regret that we are unable to confirm receipt of applications or provide feedback to unsuccessful candidates. For further information about Independent Diplomat, please visit our website at: https://independentdiplomat.org/

By submitting an application to ID, you expressly consent to ID processing the personal data contained in your application, including, but not limited to, the information contained in any cover letter, curriculum vitae, resume or references.  We will hold your information securely and use it only to process your application.  When the post has been filled, ID will erase your personal data securely. For further information about ID’s Data Protection Policy, including why and how we process and transfer personal data, and your rights with respect to your personal data, please refer to our website at www.independentdiplomat.org