Programme Manager, Just Energy Transition

Programme Manager, Just Energy Transition

United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS)

August 23, 2025September 5, 2025Washington DcUnited States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS hosts the Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL) Secretariat/Programme, which was launched in 2011 by former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon. The organization operates with a mission to drive action towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG7), which aims for universal access to sustainable energy by 203
  • SEforALL collaborates with leaders in government, the private sector, and civil society to facilitate a foundational shift in energy production, distribution, and consumption. The organization maintains close ties with the UN and has a strategic focus on data-driven decision-making and partnerships with high-impact countries to implement sustainable energy solutions.

Job Overview:
The Programme Manager, Just Energy Transition will be responsible for driving the strategic development and implementation of initiatives focused on just energy transition and decarbonization. This role requires identifying strategic opportunities for SEforALL to act as a catalyst in high-impact initiatives, leading the creation of new opportunities, and developing strategies for energy decarbonization in developing countries. The position also involves conceptualizing collaborations and engaging with stakeholders to promote just energy transition principles. The Programme Manager will work under the supervision of the Director of Energy Transition and will play a crucial role in enhancing SEforALL's mission through effective partnerships and resource mobilization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Identify strategic opportunities for SEforALL to engage in large, impactful initiatives related to just transition and decarbonization.
  • Lead the creation of new initiatives and assess their strategic value for organizations and communities in developing countries.
  • Develop a comprehensive strategy for just transition and energy decarbonization, focusing on state-owned enterprises.
  • Conceptualize and lead collaborations in the areas of just energy transition and decarbonization.
  • Conduct demand-driven research and engage with key stakeholders on energy transition issues.
  • Manage partnerships and country engagements, ensuring initiatives are strategically positioned.
  • Contribute to resource mobilization efforts by preparing concept notes, proposals, and presentations.
  • Drive fundraising initiatives in the areas of just transition and energy decarbonization.

Required Qualifications:
  • An Advanced Degree (Masters or equivalent) in Resource Management, Energy Policy, Environment, Engineering, Sustainability, Public Policy, or a related field is required.
  • A PhD in a relevant field is an advantage.
  • A Bachelor’s degree in a related field with two additional years of experience may be accepted in lieu of a master's degree.
  • A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in just transition, energy decarbonization, and climate change, particularly in developing countries, is required.
  • Demonstrated experience with just transition principles and international best practices in energy policies is essential.
  • Prior experience working with governments and partnerships in developing countries is desirable.
  • Experience in writing reports and academic papers on just energy transition is also desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an Advanced Degree (Masters or equivalent) in Resource Management, Energy Policy, Environment, Engineering, Sustainability, Public Policy, or a related field. A PhD in these areas is considered an advantage. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field along with two additional years of experience may be accepted in lieu of the master's degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in just transition, energy decarbonization, and climate change, particularly focusing on the transition of state-owned enterprises in developing countries. Candidates should have demonstrated experience with just transition principles and international best practices in energy policies. Experience working with governments and broad partnerships in developing countries is desirable, as is experience in writing reports and academic papers on just energy transition.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. A working knowledge of another official UN language is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an International Individual Contract (IICA), with a contract level of ICS 10 / IICA
  • The contract duration is ongoing and open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups. Candidates should be aware that UNOPS conducts background checks on all potential personnel, and recruitment is contingent on the results of these checks. Additionally, for retainer contracts, candidates must complete mandatory courses before providing services to UNOPS.
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