State Lead – Clean Energy, Odisha

The International Forum for Environment, Sustainability & Technology (iFOREST) is seeking a dynamic professional to lead its Clean Energy Program in Odisha.

The successful candidate must demonstrate proven aptitude, substantial experience, and a track record of leading a multi-disciplinary team of 10+ professionals engaged in research and government collaboration on clean energy initiatives. The candidate should possess a strong understanding of renewable energy technologies, market trends, and policy frameworks. Additionally, experience in conducting research and authoring reports related to the clean energy sector is essential.

This is a leadership position, requiring expertise in developing programs, managing teams, and executing projects. Furthermore, experience in engaging with government departments on policy and project implementation is a key requirement.

Candidates must also clearly understand and appreciate the critical role think tanks play in shaping public policy and supporting its implementation.

Location: Bhubaneshwar, India

Length of Commitment: 3+ years

Reporting to: Director – Clean Energy

About iFOREST

iFOREST is an independent, not-for-profit research and innovation organization established in 2019. Our mission is to identify, promote, and scale up solutions for critical environment-development challenges in India and other developing regions across Asia and Africa.

We focus on regional priorities to accelerate environmental actions at the sub-national level while influencing national policies and plans to support these efforts. By leveraging our resources and expertise, we aim to address regional needs, enhance national action, and contribute to global solutions.

Our work involves independent, evidence-based research, developing innovative solutions, convening stakeholders to build consensus, and partnering with think tanks, civil society organizations, government agencies, philanthropies, and industry leaders.

Odisha’s Clean Energy Program is designed to increase the contribution of renewable energy in the state energy-mix through policy and program support to the state government. It includes independent research, engagement with various stakeholders and providing program support to the energy department. 

Key Responsibilities

Research and Writing

• Lead the research initiatives of the program in Odisha.
• Assign research tasks and monitor their execution, providing guidance and timely interventions.
• Support the preparation of research/policy/project reports.

Stakeholder Engagement and Outreach

• Develop strong relationships with stakeholders and lead program outreach in Odisha.
• Build and maintain networks with stakeholders across sectors, including government, industry, civil society organizations (CSOs), and media.
• Represent iFOREST as a senior leader in high-level meetings and events, presenting institutional perspectives and insights.
• Strengthen iFOREST’s profile as a thought leader in the states.
• Design and manage a comprehensive outreach strategy to effectively communicate research findings.
• Foster constructive policy-research partnerships with government, industry, and other stakeholders.
• Organize and guide roundtables, convenings, and report launches with key stakeholders.

Leadership and Management

• Ensure that all projects meet their objectives, timelines, and budgets while aligning with the organization’s mission.
• Monitor project performance and proactively address challenges.
• Support in recruitment, mentoring, and managing a high-performing team.
• Promote a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages innovation and sustainability.

Institutional Development

• Work with program directors to shape state-level strategies aligned with institutional priorities and sectoral needs.
• Develop concept notes, proposals, and budgets for new projects.
• Identify new initiatives and partnerships that advance programmatic goals in the region.

Additional Duties

• Execute related assignments to enhance the Clean Energy program.

Qualifications and Experience

• Master’s degree (minimum) in a relevant field such as engineering, management, economics, or public policy from a recognized institution.
• Minimum 12 years of extensive experience in research, strategy consulting, or advisory roles focused on clean energy, climate change, and environmental issues.

Required Competencies

The candidate must possess the following attributes:

• Passion for working in civil society and driving positive societal change.
• In-depth knowledge of India’s clean energy and climate sector.
• Excellent communication skills, including proficiency in writing, research, and presentations.
• Strong stakeholder engagement and information dissemination capabilities.
• Proven ability to build relationships and engage with diverse groups on research and policy issues.
• Experience of leading a high-performing team.
• Demonstrated leadership and team-building capabilities.
• Strategic thinking, intellectual curiosity, and critical analysis skills.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet tight deadlines in policy-driven environments.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple assignments effectively.

What We Offer

At iFOREST, we provide an inclusive and supportive work environment. We are committed to professional development through education, training, and capacity-building initiatives.

Remuneration

We offer highly competitive salaries within the think tank space and recognize performance through annual appraisals. The final designation will be based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Application Instructions

We encourage candidates to apply online at https://iforest.global/careers/. If you face any difficulties, you may send your application to careers@iforest.global. Please only mention the reference code – CE-06-12/24, in the subject.