Climate Strategies (CS) is a non-profit organisation that aims to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon future by promoting evidence-based climate policy solutions. Over the past few years, we have undergone rapid growth resulting in an increasing number of initiatives, members, and staff employed at CS Secretariat. Our current Strategy for 2023-2025 puts emphasis on real-world impact across time horizons for our initiatives, working more closely with our members, securing longer-term stable financial flows, and supporting team development.
To enable that Strategy to deliver fully, as well as to support the preparation and implementation of the future Strategy, we are looking for a talented Managing Director (MD) to oversee CS operations. That includes project execution, financial management, communication, fundraising, relationship building with members, and HR. Reporting to the CEO and closely working with the Chair of the Board, the MD will manage a team of professionals (directors and managers) who share a drive to make a difference at the science-policy interface.
The ideal candidate for this position is a visionary leader with a passion/desire for making a difference in the climate policy landscape and a proven track record of success in managing a non-profit organization. They have excellent communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills, with a strong ability to build and maintain relationships with funders, members, partners, and other stakeholders. They have strong financial acumen, with the ability to manage budgets and financial reporting effectively. They are a skilled project manager who can prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously. They are a collaborative team player who values diversity and inclusion and who is committed to the organization’s mission and values.
Your responsibilities:
- Co-shape and own the implementation plan of the CS Strategy.
- Manage the organization’s budget, ensuring financial stability and sustainability.
- Provide guidance on the development of financial and operational systems to inform internal strategies and business decisions
- Lead and manage a team of professionals, providing guidance, support, and mentoring as needed.
- Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including funders, members, partners, and other key audiences.
- Ensure effective and efficient project management, monitoring progress and impact, and adjusting plans as needed.
- Oversee communication efforts, including media relations, marketing, and public relations.
- Provide leadership and direction to the organization’s fundraising efforts, including grant writing, donor cultivation, and special events.
- Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and organizational policies and procedures.
What we are looking for:
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field (Essential)
- Advanced degree (Desirable)
- 10 years of leadership experience (Essential)
- Track record of success in managing a non-profit organization (Desirable)
- Strong financial acumen, with experience managing budgets and financial reporting (Essential)
- Excellent communication (written and verbal), interpersonal, and relationship-building skills (Essential)
- Solid project management skills with agility, and the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously (Essential)
- Familiarity with legal compliance and contractual management relevant to non-profit governance (Desirable)
- Proven hybrid team management and coaching skills (Essential)
- Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with funders, members, partners, and other stakeholders (Essential)
- Knowledge of the science-policy research interface (Desirable)
- Broad understanding of the climate policy agenda (Desirable)
What do you get?
At Climate Strategies, we offer a sector-competitive salary (see below for indicative ranges), with an option for performance-based bonuses.
We also know that there are other factors that contribute to employee happiness and job satisfaction. And hence we offer a large range of non-salary benefits that are designed to give you the flexibility and autonomy you need to achieve your goals and work-life balance while also making a meaningful impact on the world.
- Flexibility to work from home and our offices in London (where most of the team is based) and Utrecht, with flexibility in working hours
- The opportunity to shape Climate Strategies, our work and impact
- A unique opportunity to work with some of the world’s leading climate researchers and help them make their work more impactful
- Working with a diverse team
- Pension Plan
- Parental Leave
- Personal development opportunities
Beyond these perks, we are passionate about our mission and the impact we are making on the world, and we believe that everyone who works here should feel that same sense of purpose and fulfilment. Finally, we’re committed to giving our employees autonomy and the freedom to take ownership of their work, so you can truly make a difference and feel empowered in your role.
We are looking for 60% – 80% FTE employment. Salary indication based on experience (FTE): €63k- €73k/£ 60k-£70k (including holiday allowance in the NL)
The process
If you’re looking for a job that offers more than just a paycheck, and you’re ready to join a team that values your unique contributions and perspective, we invite you to apply today and become part of something truly special.
Please send your CV and a letter outlining your vision for the role to antigone.theodorou@climatestrategies.org by COB Wednesday, 15 January 2025. We plan to hold two rounds of interviews during January-February 2025. The starting date for this position is as soon as possible, ideally March-April 2025.
Eligibility to Work
Please note that candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK or EU at the time of application. As a small nonprofit organisation, we are currently unable to provide visa sponsorship.
Commitment to equal consideration
We are committed to ensuring that all qualified candidates receive equal consideration for employment without discrimination based on race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. We will make every effort to remove barriers to employment and create a level playing field for all candidates.
