Director, EU Agriculture Program

Environmental Defense Fund Europe (EDFE) is an affiliate of Environmental Defense Fund, a leading international non-profit organization that creates transformative solutions to the most serious environmental problems. With programs from Boston to Beijing, Environmental Defense Fund has tripled in size over the past decade by focusing on strong science, economics, market-based approaches, and innovative private-sector partnerships. This position is part of our growing presence in Europe.

By focusing on strong science, uncommon partnerships and market-based approaches, we tackle urgent threats with practical solutions. We are one of the world’s largest environmental organizations, with more than two million members and a staff of approximately 700 scientists, economists, policy experts, and other professionals around the world. We operate in 22 geographies with unique projects running across four programs. You will be part of a vibrant workplace where innovation and results are a way of life.

We envision a world in which people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected to the environmental challenges we face and are engaged in creating durable, equitable solutions. We seek talented candidates who share our Core Values of Respect, Results, Innovation, Optimism, and Integrity, and support our Commitment to Diversity.

The role:

Between 2005 and 2019, agricultural emissions in the EU remained stable. Based on national projections, only a modest EU-level decline of 2% is expected by 2030 compared with 2005 levels. If currently planned additional measures are implemented, a 5% reduction is expected. These projected declines would be insufficient to meet most Member States’ binding annual targets, highlighting the need for further action if the EU is to meet its goal of climate neutrality by 2050.[1] It is for that reason that EDFE has started work on reducing agriculture emissions in the EU. Other new work is planned on carbon farming.

EU is to meet its goal of climate neutrality by 2050.

In this varied position you will have a central role leading our advocacy work on agriculture in the EU and helping to raise ambitions both at EU and member state level. You will oversee economic and policy analysis to underpin this goal. You will also work with industry partners to help raise their ambitions and to inform their climate strategies. You will also be working together closely with the global multidisciplinary EDF agriculture team to address these challenges and find solutions appropriate to the EDF anchor regions.

We’re looking for experienced candidates who have (1) a deep understanding of how best to influence the EU’s legislative and policy making processes and promote practical implementation of solutions; and (2) a sound knowledge of the EU’s ambitions for agriculture under the Green Deal.

You will report to the AVP European Strategy & Engagement in London, liaising closely with colleagues in Europe, the United States and in other overseas offices.