Southern Transitions is a climate-focused think tank dedicated to advancing just transitions in the Global South. By bridging the public, private, and civil society sectors, we work on transformative economic opportunities in emerging and evolving systems. As a nonprofit founded in 2023, our mission is to empower decision-makers through evidence-based strategies, experiments, and innovative ideas. We focus on global frameworks, value chains, and finance, driving collaboration to shape sustainable futures for communities across the Global South.
Based remotely, preference for Central African Time (GMT +2) – Southern Transitions seeks to appoint a Just Transition Lead.
The Just Transition Lead at Southern Transitions plays a critical role in driving impactful projects focused on creating fair and sustainable transitions in the Global South. As a strategic partner to the leadership team, this role involves conducting research, managing projects, engaging stakeholders, and contributing to the organization’s growth and development. With a focus on climate action, policy support, fundraising, and organizational development, the position offers the opportunity to shape meaningful change while collaborating closely with a dynamic and mission-driven team. This role is ideal for someone with expertise in climate and development, strong analytical skills, and a passion for driving equitable transitions.
The Just Transition Lead will be responsible for the following tasks and duties, among others:
• Lead and manage projects, ensuring timely delivery and high-quality outcomes.
• Conduct literature reviews, data collection, analysis, and modeling to support strategic research and generate impactful evidence.
• Network and engage with stakeholders across sectors to foster collaboration and advance just transitions.
• Provide direct support to policy- and decision-makers in the Global South, operationalizing Southern Transitions’ recommendations.
• Promote and drive impact through project fundraising, while maintaining strong relationships with funders and partners.
• Deliver impactful written and verbal outputs, sharing research findings and thought leadership with relevant audiences.
• Contribute to building the organization’s capacity, systems, and culture, ensuring alignment with its mission and values.
• Assist in developing and implementing organizational systems, including finance, HR, governance, and stakeholder management.
• Work collaboratively with technical specialists and contribute to building a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Shape the role as the organization grows, adapting to evolving priorities and the changing climate landscape.
The Just Transition Lead must meet the following criteria:
Qualifications and Experience:
• 5-8 years of experience in climate change, energy, just transitions, green industrialization, inequality and development, international trade, or sustainable finance, particularly in the Global South.
• A Master’s degree or higher, ideally in multidisciplinary fields relevant to climate change (e.g., environmental sciences, development economics, political science, environmental engineering, geography, anthropology).
• Proven experience in managing long-term projects or program delivery.
• Strong leadership and people management skills with experience in growing small teams and supporting staff development.
• Experience in fundraising, budgeting, and financial management.
• Based in or from the Global South, with a preference for candidates within +/- 3 hours of Central African Time (GMT+2).
Skills:
• Ability to translate complex technical information into compelling narratives and deliver high-quality written outputs.
• Proven ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders and thrive in a remote, decentralized work environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365, with the ability to quickly learn tools like Slack and Mendeley.
• Fluent in English, with additional languages like Portuguese, Spanish, French, or Mandarin as a plus.
• Ability to multitask, work autonomously, adapt to shifting priorities, and be outcome-focused in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable working in a decentralized, remote environment with occasional travel and flexible working hours.
Salary is budgeted at around 50 000 USD per annum, with significant room for negotiation for exceptional candidates with demonstrated experience in the field.