MAIN PURPOSE OF ROLE

The South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA), in collaboration with Africa WindPower - a Global Wind Energy Council initiative seeks to appoint a Policy Advisor for a period of three (3) years.

The Policy Advisor will play a key role in shaping and influencing policy related to the wind and renewable energy sector. This position requires conducting in-depth research, analysing policy proposals, and collaborating with stakeholders to develop strategic policy recommendations that align with SAWEA's objectives and industry needs.

A secondment to a relevant government department or entity is highly possible.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES (THIS IS NOT AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST)

Main responsibilities

1. Research and Analysis:

• Conduct thorough research and analysis on policy and regulatory issues impacting the wind and renewable energy sector.
• Interpret complex regulatory and market reform to assess the potential impact of policy proposals, identifying risks and opportunities.

2. Policy Analysis:

• Develop policy summaries and recommendations and create detailed implementation plans.
• Proactively monitor policy formulation, consultation, and review processes in the renewable energy industry.

3. Stakeholder Collaboration:

• Work closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure policy understanding, alignment and impact as industry and organisational goals.
• Support institutional partnerships, manage relationships, and foster collaboration with government entities, partners, and members.
• Support necessary policy interventions by providing strategic and technical assistance to key government stakeholders in South Africa.

4. Policy Communication and Advocacy:

• Prepare policy briefs, reports, and presentations for the wind industry, SAWEA Board, Executive Management, Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with the Chief Communication Officer to develop impactful content and materials within predefined communication strategies.
• Publish research and data to support renewable energy deployment in South Africa, especially wind power.

5. Monitoring and Compliance:

• Monitor the implementation of policies, evaluate their effectiveness, and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
• Provide recommendations to policies, regulations and strategies as necessary based on ongoing analysis and feedback.
• Monitor the industries contribution to influencing policy development and implementation.

6. Strategic Support and Guidance:

• Provide strategic guidance and input to SAWEA's Standing Committees on industry regulatory frameworks.
• Collaborate with Senior Technical Advisors and SAWEA’s Knowledge Management Division to develop position papers and research documents

7. Global Benchmarking:

• Research and benchmark against global and Sub-Saharan renewable energy policy frameworks to inform SAWEA’s policy stance.

8. Administrative Support:

• Assist with administrative duties, correspondence, and communication with internal and external stakeholders.
• Support the coordination of internal projects, briefings, workshops, and webinars.

9. Representation and Advocacy:

• Represent SAWEA at external forums, events, and meetings to advocate for the wind energy industry and SAWEA’s strategic objectives.
• Contribute to member growth and retention strategies to support the financial sustainability of the organisation.

10. Additional Duties:

• Perform any other duties as delegated by the CEO and GWEC’s Director of Africa WindPower.

SKILLS

• Problem solving: Skilled at identifying, assessing, and resolving policy-related challenges.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain positive relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, industry leaders, and community groups. Ability to work collaboratively and navigate sensitive conversations.
• Teamwork: Proven ability to work effectively within a team environment, contributing to shared goals and fostering a collaborative and supportive work culture. Open to feedback and able to collaborate across functions and with various teams.
• Research and Analysis: Expertise in conducting comprehensive research and data analysis to inform policy decisions. Ability to synthesise complex information and draw meaningful conclusions that drive strategic recommendations.
• Adaptability: Flexible and adaptable in a dynamic environment, capable of responding to changing circumstances and priorities. Comfortable working under pressure and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Adaptability: Flexible and adaptable in a dynamic environment, capable of responding to changing circumstances and priorities. Comfortable working under pressure and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.

EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEGE & QUALIFICATION

• A degree in Public Policy, Economics, Political Science, International Relations or similar.
• 5 – 8 years’ experience in a similar role.
• Proven experience in policy analysis, development, and advocacy within the renewable energy sector.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable insights.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in project management and coordination.
• Knowledge of the renewable energy sector, specifically wind energy, is highly desirable

REMUNERATION

• R700k-R750k

DURATION

• A duration of 36 months, with the possibility of extension.

Policy Advisor Job Description.pdf

Start date: As soon possible

Submission details: Please submit your CV and a cover letter expressing your interest in the role to admin@sawea.co.za by Monday, 16 September 2024, 16h00. Use the email subject line “Policy Advisor.