Senior Technical Advisor: Climate Change Policy

1. ABOUT THE POSITION

We are seeking a Senior Technical Advisor to join our team in Pretoria and take the lead in Climate Change Policy, including Mitigation of greenhouse gases as well as Monitoring & Evaluation of Emissions in South Africa as well as Adaptation. This role combines strategic thinking, policy analysis and technical expertise to amplify the policy advice of the Climate Support Programme (CSP4).

As Senior Technical Advisor you will:

Lead the management, quality assurance, and oversight of consulting firms, while mentoring junior advisors in establishing effective consultant management structures—including drafting terms of reference and initiating procurement processes.

• Provide strategic and technical guidance to DFFE and partner institutions on the design, development, and implementation of climate change projects, with a focus on both mitigation and adaptation policy.
• Deliver high-level policy advice on climate change mitigation, contribute to adaptation strategies, and support monitoring & evaluation of emissions.
• You will thrive in a dynamic, supportive environment where you can shape your role and grow as a professional in the fields of climate action, biodiversity and just transition.

2. TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Senior Technical Advisor is expected to undertake the following tasks:

• Provide strategic policy advice on climate change mitigation—particularly in the Energy, Industry, and Transport sectors—as well as on adaptation strategies and the monitoring and evaluation of emissions.
• Offer technical support to government partners (e.g. DFFE) and institutions in designing, developing, and implementing climate-related policies and projects, with a focus on both mitigation and adaptation.
• Lead the management, oversight, and quality assurance of consulting firms, including mentoring junior advisors and supporting the development of procurement processes and terms of reference.
• Independently manage and implement technical workstreams related to climate policy, institutional support, and implementation mechanisms across mitigation and adaptation.
• Contribute to mainstreaming mitigation measures into adaptation response plans and policies developed for both public and private sector
• Collaborate and participate on adaptation related project activities conducted within the Climate Cluster.
• Plan and facilitate consultations and stakeholder engagements, ensuring strong knowledge management and dissemination across thematic areas.
• Prepare high-quality briefing materials for German ministries (BMUV, BMWK, BMZ, AA) with minimal supervision.
• Support the Climate Cluster in developing new project proposals for German (e.g. IKI, BMZ) and international (e.g. GCF, WBG) climate financing opportunities.
• Carry out additional tasks as needed to support the Climate Cluster’s objectives.

3. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS, COMPETENCIES AND EXPRERIENCES

• University degree (post-graduate would be advantageous) in an area that is related to the programme objectives – e.g. Climate Change, Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Energy (Efficiency), Finance/Economics, Business Administration and/or Engineering job profile.
• Qualification should be enhanced with 10 years or more of relevant work experience in climate change and project management related work; advisory or consulting services;
• Extensive knowledge of the Climate Change Policy landscape in South Africa and internationally with a focus on Energy, Just Transition, Industry and Transport;
• Extensive knowledge of the South Africa’s commitments under the UNFCCC as well as sound understanding and work experience in international climate policy and UNFCCC processes;
• Strong expertise in climate change policy and project implementation, with a focus on Energy, Just Transition, Industry, and Transport in South Africa and internationally.
• In-depth knowledge of GHG emission modelling, transition pathways, and environmental policy instruments (e.g., carbon tax, budgets, trading systems), including GHG inventories.
• Solid understanding of South African energy policy and its intersection with the Just Transition agenda.
• Proven experience in integrated project management, proposal development, and securing donor funding.
• Familiarity with South Africa’s public and private sector landscape, including established networks across all government levels and stakeholders in the climate and energy sectors.
• Skilled in facilitating stakeholder engagement across diverse groups and governance levels.
• Excellent analytical, technical writing, and communication skills; demonstrated ability to produce and edit complex materials for varied audiences.
• Strong interpersonal skills with intercultural sensitivity, political awareness, and a collaborative, solution-oriented approach.
• Self-motivated and detail-oriented, able to work independently and in teams under pressure and within deadlines.
• Experienced in managing service providers and technically guiding expert teams; committed to continuous learning and skills development.
• Passionate about climate change, sustainability, and advancing the green economy

4. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This position is based at GIZ in Hatfield, Pretoria.

The position is full-time. The assignment comprises a fixed-term employment contract until 31 December 2026. The desired start date is 1 August 2025, deviating agreements are possible.

At GIZ, you will be offered an atmosphere that is characterised by diversity, respect, and genuine equal opportunities. GIZ is a signatory to the Diversity Charter. Recognition, appreciation, and inclusion of diversity are important to us. All employees shall be valued – regardless of gender, gender identity, ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, social background, age, or sexual orientation.

5. APPLICATION PROCESS

Suitable candidates should apply by submitting a motivation letter (max. 2 pages) detailing why they should be the preferred candidate and the value they will bring to the work of CSP. This should be accompanied by a detailed CV (max. 2 pages) indicating their nationality.

Applications should be submitted to: recruit-pretoria@giz.de, with the email subject line “Application for STA Climate Change Policy - CSP” for the attention of Head of Unit: Human Resource.

We expressly welcome applications from women and historically marginalized groups.

Closing date for applications: 25 June 2025.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and will be required to conclude an assignment prior to the interview.

Applications without a motivation letter and CVs longer than 2 pages will not be considered!