Renewable Energy Users Cooperative Societies (REUCS) and Policy Coordination Expert

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization established with the mission to create a better world through innovative solutions that address the challenges faced by communities in crisis. Operating in more than 40 countries, Mercy Corps partners with local organizations and communities to implement programs that foster resilience and empower individuals to overcome adversity. The organization focuses on various sectors, including economic development, health, and education, with a strong emphasis on sustainable practices and community-driven solutions. Energy 4 Impact (E4I), the energy innovation platform of Mercy Corps, specifically targets the energy needs of poor and vulnerable communities in Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and other developing markets, working closely with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to enhance their business capabilities and access to energy resources.

Job Overview:
The Renewable Energy Users Cooperative Societies (REUCS) and Policy Coordination Expert will play a crucial role in the Community Owned Rural Electrification (CORE) project, which is a collaborative initiative involving the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Mercy Corps Energy 4 Impact (E4I), and other partners. This position is designed to ensure effective coordination among various stakeholders, including government entities, project partners, community cooperatives, and donors. The expert will be responsible for facilitating communication and collaboration, managing project tasks, and ensuring that project milestones are met in a timely manner. The role requires a proactive approach to stakeholder engagement, risk management, and the integration of feedback into project design and implementation. The consultant will also be tasked with drafting policy briefs and updates to enhance sector engagement and support the development of sustainable rural electrification models.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: serving as the primary liaison between the REA and project partners, coordinating consultations and workshops with stakeholders, managing task orders to align project activities with REA’s Mini-Grids Sustainability Program, facilitating administrative processes for project execution, documenting stakeholder feedback, drafting policy briefs and donor updates, coordinating logistics for training programs, and supporting the development of the REUCS business case for scale-up. Additionally, the consultant will identify and escalate emerging risks that may impact project delivery, recommend mitigation strategies, and maintain stakeholder confidence through proactive engagement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Development Studies, Energy Policy, Public Administration, Business, or a related field. A minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in stakeholder engagement, project coordination, or donor/government liaison is required, preferably within the energy, infrastructure, or development sectors. Familiarity with Nigeria’s renewable energy landscape and rural electrification initiatives is essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong communication, negotiation, and facilitation skills, with the ability to manage complex relationships across various sectors.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Development Studies, Energy Policy, Public Administration, Business, or a closely related discipline is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to effectively engage with stakeholders and manage project activities.

Experience:
The position requires 3-5 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in roles that involve stakeholder engagement, project coordination, or liaison with donors and government entities. Experience in the energy sector, particularly in renewable energy and rural electrification, is highly desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing multi-stakeholder relationships and navigating complex project environments.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of local languages is considered an asset and may enhance communication with community stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy assignment is expected to last no longer than 56 days, spanning from February 2026 to November 2026, contingent upon performance and funding availability. The consultant will report to E4I’s Head of Energy Research and Innovation and will collaborate closely with various team members, including the Regional Commercial Advisor for Energy Access and the CORE Project Manager. The role emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and ethical practices, ensuring that all team members adhere to Mercy Corps' values and conduct policies.