Strategic Engagement Manager, New Climate Economy

World Resources Institute (WRI) is an independent, nonprofit global research organization that turns big ideas into action at the nexus of environment, economic opportunity and human well-being. We are working to address six critical challenges that the world must overcome this decade in order to secure a sustainable future for people and the planet: climate change, energy, food, forests, water and sustainable cities.

We are passionate. We value our diversity of interests, skills and backgrounds. We have a flexible work environment. And we share a common goal to catalyze change that will improve the lives of people. Our shared ideals are at the core of our approach. They include: integrity, innovation, urgency, independence and respect.

The foundation of our work is delivering high-quality research, data, maps and analysis to solve the world’s greatest environment and international development challenges,and improve people’s lives. We work with leaders in government, business and civil society to drive ambitious action and create change on the ground. Equally important, we bring together partners to develop breakthrough ideas and scale-up solutions for far-reaching, enduring impact.

We have been growing rapidly: our staff has doubled in size over the past 5 years and our operating budget is now $100 million. Founded in 1982, WRI has a global staff of nearly 700 people with work spanning 50 countries. We have offices in Brazil, China, Europe, India, Indonesia, Mexico and the United States. 

Overview 

WRI seeks an Engagement and Research Associate to assist the New Climate Economy (NCE) in the execution of its ongoing engagement and impact strategy. The position will be responsible for the execution of numerous components of the overall engagement strategy for the NCE and the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate, including through supporting the preparation of briefing materials, managing some key relationships with NCE partners, and coordination for events with the NCE communications team and other relevant partners in order to influence targeted audiences.

The NCE project provides independent and authoritative evidence on the relationship between actions which can strengthen economic performance and those which reduce the risk of dangerous climate change. The project is undertaken by a global partnership of research institutes, with WRI as the managing partner, under the guidance of a high level, internationally renowned Global Commission on Economy and Climate.

Responsibilities

The Manager's main areas of responsibility will include the following:

Program/Project Management (60% of time required)

• In collaboration with senior staff, support partnership efforts including at highest levels with the Global Commission, as well as for NCE Initiatives. 
• Collaborate extensively with the NCE Communications team as well as with partners’ engagement/communications teams and the rest of the NCE team on strategy and implementation.
• Support or lead on the logistics of planning, preparation and management of events (for eg: major report launches, roundtable discussions, other announcements).
• Coordinate outreach with partners and stakeholders via email communications, events, and other opportunities.
• Monitor and manage project deliverables such as an engagement calendar, databases and ensure that institutional and donor reporting (narrative or key performance indicators) is updated regularly and submitted promptly.
• Support on the setting of priorities for global team members and support the NCE management Team.

Program/Partnership Development (20% of time required)

• Contribute to funding proposals, including by identifying and developing key relationships and inputting on developing strong, high-impact engagement strategies.
• Assist with executing strategic communication plans for the program, working with NCE communications team and NCE senior management to identify high-priority projects and highlight WRI research analysis and experts.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with sub agreement guidelines

Research & Knowledge: (20% of time required)

• Preparing country or issue-specific briefing materials
• Preparing engagement and communications materials (e.g., briefing packs, powerpoints)
• Mentoring junior staff.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Masters in related field.
• Minimum 3-5 years of full-time work experience with experience demonstrable track record for development, coordination and management of partnerships, initiatives and coalitions.
• Good research and messaging skills, with proficiency in powerpoint a plus.
• Prior supervision and mentorship of one or more junior staff.
• Exceptionally good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Detail-oriented and organized thinker who can juggle multiple, competing priorities.
• Ability to travel when needed.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a fast-paced office environment, both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong quantitative, analytical research skills
• Strong commitment to WRI’s mission and values.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with stakeholder engagement, external communications and/or high profile donor management.
• Experience with a international institution.

Target Start Date: January 15, 2018

Final candidates will be required to take a Work Sample Test.  

How to Apply

Qualified applicants must apply online at careers.wri.org to be considered.

The World Resources Institute (http://www.wri.org) is an environmental and development research and policy organization that creates solutions to protect the Earth and improve people’s lives. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, it is WRI’s policy to recruit, hire, and provide opportunities for advancement in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, citizenship, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, parental status, protected veteran status, or disability. WRI’s global agenda requires a staff that is diverse – with respect to race, gender, cultural, and international background. Diverse perspectives and experience enhance the way WRI selects and approaches issues, as well as the creativity and applicability of WRI's policy research and analysis. WRI, therefore, encourages applications from U.S. minorities, persons from other countries (especially developing nations), and from women of all backgrounds.