Policy Advisor
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.