Climate Change and Biodiversity Policy Officer HEO

3 weeks ago

Pretoria, South Africa Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Full time
The British Government is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer. We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law. We promote family-friendly flexible working opportunities, where operational and security needs allow. Job Category 1 Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (Policy & Political roles) Job Subcategory 1 Climate Diplomacy Job Description (Roles and Responsibilities) 1

Main purpose of job:

Climate change is one of the most serious threats facing our world. The UK has responded with some of the world’s most ambitious legislation and domestic targets, embedding the green economy in all our industrial, research and growth strategies. Internationally, the UK is one of the most significant contributors to international climate finance and active in pressing for global ambition in line with the 2015 Paris agreement to limit global temperature rise to below 2 degrees.

South Africa is a key strategic partner: 1) The Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) between South Africa and the UK, US, France, Germany, the EU, Denmark and The Netherlands (announced at COP26 in Glasgow, November 2021) is about supporting SA to meet its ambitious NDC commitments, doing so in a just way. 2) As a developing country under the UNFCCC, South Africa is dealing with the twin challenges of adapting to, and building resilience against climate impact that is already occurring and increasing; 3) As the 6th most mega diverse country in the world, South Africa has an important role to play in delivery of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) including on digital sequencing information; and 4) As an influential member of the Africa Group, the G77 +China, G20, BRICS, SA is a key player in securing real progress within the UNFCCC negotiation process.

The British High Commission is looking for a temporary (Maternity Cover) Climate Change and Biodiversity Policy Officer to work with partners across government, NGOs, civil society and business on climate change and biodiversity.

This position plays a central role within the British High Commission to lead on delivering climate and biodiversity policy and events. You will monitor relevant policy developments in SA, and report on those developments and their implications. The role includes supporting diplomatic action linked to the 16th Conference of the Parties of the Convention on Biological Diversity (COP16) in October 2024; the 29th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) in November 2024; campaigns including around Earthshot week which takes place in Cape Town in November 2024; and ongoing implementation of the JETP.

It is an exciting opportunity to be at the heart of this key area of UK-South Africa collaboration. The post holder will contribute to the development of a vision for how to grow a long-term UK-South Africa climate relationship. This role will report to the Head of Climate Change and Biodiversity. You will be expected to develop strong links with other colleagues working on JETP, Development, Economic Growth, Science and Innovation and Department for Business and Trade (DBT) teams.

Roles and responsibilities:

To plan and deliver engagement with government including sub-national authorities, non government actors, business and civil society on climate change and biodiversity. To deliver timely and insightful reporting on climate change and biodiversity developments in South Africa and their implications To contribute to implementation of the High Commission’s Climate Change and Biodiversity strategy for South Africa To ensure this strategy supports long-term decarbonisation, resilience & adaptation and biodiversity objectives in South Africa, including clean growth, just energy transition, biodiversity and green finance To act as the High Commission’s focal point on climate change and biodiversity policy, developing and owning the bilateral narrative by working closely with colleagues on issues relevant to climate change and biodiversity To coordinate with Whitehall colleagues on engagement with South Africa, advising on local sensitivities and priorities; this will include contributing to briefing for ministers and senior officials To liaise with the South African government on policy relating to UNFCCC COP29 and CBD COP16, including communications To identify climate diplomacy high impact, outcome-driven projects, deliver grant agreements with implementing partners and track progress To manage Ministerial and official visits from the UK related to climate change and biodiversity in South Africa To play an active part in the corporate life of the High Commission (including if necessary as a member of any High Commission Committees) to maximise the overall well-being of staff

Resources managed (staff and expenditure):

The postholder might oversee a climate related outreach budget.

Essential qualifications, skills and experience 1

We are looking for a proactive self-starter, able to work well with others and have a flexible approach to work whilst under pressure. Excellent interpersonal and communications skills to build strong relations within the High Commission and with a wide range of stakeholders in South Africa.

At least a Bachelor’s with honours degree, preferably in Environmental Science, Climate Change, Biological Diversity, Public Policy or a related course Solid knowledge of climate change and/or biodiversity issues in South Africa and related international institutional frameworks Minimum 5 years of work experience, ideally with some background in working with international stakeholders Ability to demonstrate strong interpersonal, communication and stakeholder relationship skills Be a flexible and creative problem-solver, able to come up with innovative solutions to complex problems, and coordinate coherent and compelling programmes and projects Fluency in written and spoken English Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and ability to adjust to different audiences Excellent presentation skills Team player, driven by values Desirable qualifications, skills and experience 1 Relevant post-graduate course Sound network of contacts in political arena, government, private sector and civil societies Candidates with prior work experience in International or multilateral programmes will be considered as a plus: Knowledge of UK climate change and biodiversity policy and its global leadership in the subject matter Knowledge of just energy transition Knowledge of the low carbon/green sector Required behaviours 1 Communicating and Influencing, Delivering at Pace, Seeing the Big Picture, Working Together Application deadline 1 29 April 2024 Grade 1 Higher Executive Officer (HEO) Type of Position 1 Fixed Term Working hours per week 1 36.5 hours Duration of Post 1 6 months Region 1 Africa Country/Territory 1 South Africa Location (City) 1 Pretoria Type of Post 1 British High Commission Number of vacancies 1 1 Salary 1 R 701,134.36 (per annum) Start Date 1 2 September 2024 End Date 1 28 February 2025 Other benefits and conditions of employment 1

Learning and development opportunities (and any specific training courses to be completed):

Post has an active Learning and Development committee and there are significant opportunities for learning and growth in this role.


Working patterns:

The postholder will be required to be office-based at least 3 days per week.

  • Climate Change and Biodiversity Technical Advisor

    6 days ago

    Pretoria, South Africa GIZ. Full time

    **About Us**: Germany provides a visible and impactful contribution to support the South African Government in reaching its goals to tackle the challenge of climate change. **The Climate Support Programme (CSP)** funded under the **International Climate Initiative (IKI),** a financing vehicle by the **German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate...

  • Researcher - Climate Security Specialist

    5 days ago

    Pretoria, South Africa International Water Management Institute Full time

    **The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT**, a CGIAR Research Center, is seeking a dynamic & multi skilled Climate Security Specialist. - This position will be based in Pretoria, South Africa, and will be hosted by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI)._ The Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for...

  • Specialist: Environment, Climate Change and

    6 days ago

    Pretoria, South Africa Affirmative Portfolios Full time

    **Environmental Sciences ~ Agricultural Sciences** **Pretoria** ***: **Specialist: Environment, Climate Change and Sustainability - Pretoria** **Salary: R938 369,47 - R1 224 219,32 pa** **Overview**: Reporting to the Portfolio Head: Municipal Sustainability, the incumbent will be required to providing expert support and advice on behalf of local government...

  • Specialist: Environment, Climate Change and

    6 days ago

    Pretoria, South Africa Secondments Recruitment Full time

    **Job Advert Summary**: Reporting to the Portfolio Head: Municipal Sustainability, the incumbent will be required to providing expert support and advice on behalf of local government in various policy matters related to Environment and Climate change meets it performance and delivery targets. Providing expert support and advice on behalf of local government...

  • Specialist: Environment, Climate Change and

    5 days ago

    Pretoria, South Africa Ditshaba Full time

    **QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE** - A Postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline - Seven years’ experience in local government. - Policy and legislative processes and government; - Experience in research, analysis and monitoring and evaluation; - Policy development and analysis; - Policy research, analysis, monitoring and evaluation; - Management...

  • Specialist: Environment

    6 days ago

    Pretoria, South Africa Khomeliwa Consulting Full time

    **Specialist: Environment & Climate Change, Pretoria,** **R 938k - R1, 22m p/a, 5-Year Contract** **(Non-EE vacancy)** Our client is a Governmental organisation in the Local Government sector and they seek the services of the Specialist: Environment & Climate Change to be based at their head office in Pretoria. THIS APPOINTMENT WILL BE MADE ON A 5-YEAR...

  • Energy Planner and Climate Change Specialist

    2 weeks ago

    Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa British High Commission Full time

    British High Commission's job vacancy, Career and RecruitmentJob title : Energy Planner and Climate Change Specialist (12/24 PTA) jobs in GautengJob Location : Gauteng, PretoriaDeadline : April 22, 2024Quick Recommended LinksJobs by LocationJob by industries Main purpose of job:Background:This position will serve as a secondment into the Secretariat of the...

  • Senior Research Officer

    5 hours ago

    Pretoria, South Africa International Water Management Institute Full time

    **_ This position is a remote role telecommuting to Pretoria, South Africa, and will be hosted by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI)._** The Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) delivers research-based solutions that harness agricultural biodiversity and sustainably transform food...

  • Senior Research Officer

    5 hours ago

    Pretoria, South Africa International Water Management Institute Full time

    The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, a CGIAR Research Center, is seeking a dynamic & multi skilled Geographic Information System Specialist. **_ This position is a remote role telecommuting to Pretoria, South Africa, and will be hosted by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI)._** The Alliance of Bioversity International and the...

  • Landscape Management Advisor

    3 days ago

    Pretoria, South Africa GIZ. Full time

    **About Us**: The contract period for this position is until **30 June 2025** with the possibility to extend until December 2027). **To be considered you need the following**: **Qualifications**: - BSc degree or higher in Ecology and Conservation, Agronomy, Natural Resource Management and planning, Climate Change and Development or in a field...

  • Deputy Director: Employee Relations

    3 weeks ago

    Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa South African National Biodiversity Institute Full time

    South African National Biodiversity Institute's job vacancy, Career and RecruitmentJob title : Deputy Director: Employee Relations & Wellness jobs in GautengJob Location : Gauteng, PretoriaDeadline : 18-May-24Quick Recommended LinksJobs by LocationJob by industries The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is looking for a self-motivated and...

  • Finance Assistant, Biopama, S.africa Country Office

    7 days ago

    Pretoria, South Africa International Union for Conservation of Nature Full time

    **Finance Assistant, BIOPAMA, S.Africa COuntry Office**: **Vacancy #**: 6333 **Unit**: ESARO - South Africa Conservation Areas and Species **Organisation**: International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) **Location**: South Africa Country Office, Pretoria, South Africa **Reporting to**: Finance Officer-S.Africa Country Office **Work...

  • Public Diplomacy Officer Heo

    5 days ago

    Pretoria, South Africa Foreign & Commonwealth Office Full time

    Job Description (Roles and Responsibilities) **Main purpose of job**: This role will drive increased collaboration and profile of the great sporting, cultural and people to people links between the UK and South Africa. Working with policy leads, you’ll create and deliver events and engagements that speak to the breadth of UK / South Africa engagement. You...

  • Urban Programme Manager HEO

    3 weeks ago

    Pretoria, South Africa Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Full time

    The British Government is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer. We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, sexual...

  • Urban Programme Manager HEO

    1 day ago

    Pretoria, South Africa Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Full time

    The British Government is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer. We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, sexual...

  • Specialist: Organisational Development and Change

    6 days ago

    Pretoria, South Africa University of Pretoria Full time

    Job DescriptionDEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST: ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND CHANGE MANAGEMENT PEROMNES POST LEVEL 6 In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite suitably qualified applicants for the above vacancy. The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top...

  • Digital Access Programme Officer Heo

    3 days ago

    Pretoria, South Africa Foreign & Commonwealth Office Full time

    Job Description (Roles and Responsibilities) **Main purpose of job**: Many countries, including middle-income countries still face considerable challenges such as youth unemployment, climate change, high and persistent inequality (including gender inequality) and digital exclusion, which can lower long-term growth prospects. Access to the internet is a...

  • Call for Experts

    3 weeks ago

    Gauteng, Pretoria, South Africa RTI International Full time

    RTI International’s job vacancy, Career and Recruitment Job title : Call for Experts – USAID/Southern Africa’s Countering Wildlife Crime Activity jobs in Gauteng Job Location : Gauteng, Pretoria Deadline : April 21, 2024 Quick Recommended Links Jobs by Location Job by industries RTI’s Sustainable Growth & Resilience (SG&R) technical unit within...

  • Executive: Strategy, Policy, and Regulatory

    5 hours ago

    Pretoria, South Africa MCR – Medical and Management Corporate Recruiting Full time

    **Requirements**: *** - **A legal qualification** ***: - **NQF Level 9 Postgraduate qualification in Business Administration/Legal/ Compliance** ***: - **A minimum of 15 years’ overall experience, of which 8 years must be in a Senior Management role;** ***: - **5 years in policy development and 5 years in private health services** ***: - **10 years’...

  • Specialist: Organisational Development and Change

    3 days ago

    Pretoria, South Africa University of Pretoria Full time

    DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES SPECIALIST: ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND CHANGE MANAGEMENT PEROMNES POST LEVEL 6 - In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite suitably qualified applicants for the above vacancy._ - The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research...