Vacancy Announcement
Secretariat of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
Office of the Director General (ODG)
Publication Date: 18 July 2023
Deadline For Application: 17 August 2023 (at midnight, Abu Dhabi local Time)
Title and Grade: Associate Professional – Office of the Director-General
Indicative Annual Remuneration: USD 36,000 to 54,000 and other benefits [1]
Duration of Appointment: One year, with possible extension
Duty Station: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Expected Date for Entry on Duty: As soon as possible
The International Renewable Energy Agency is an inter-governmental organisation headquartered in Abu Dhabi, mandated to promote the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy in the pursuit of sustainable development, energy access, energy security and low-carbon economic growth and prosperity. IRENA’s mission is to play a leading role in the ongoing transformation of the global energy systems as a centre of excellence for knowledge and innovation, a global voice of renewable energy, a network hub for all stakeholders and a source of advice and support for countries. At present, IRENA has 168 Members (167 States and the European Union) that acceded to its Statute, and 21 additional States in the process of accession and actively engaged.
The purpose of the Associate Professional Programme is to enable talented and promising university graduates and post graduates to gain first-hand experience in the work of IRENA and a deeper insight into the role of the Agency in promoting the widespread and increased adoption and sustainable use of all forms of renewable energy. The Programme offers valuable exposure to IRENA’s main activities and programmatic areas. On occasion, there are also opportunities in support areas such as administration, finance, human resources and public information. The Agency will also benefit from gaining new and motivated members of staff, bringing new skills and perspectives.
Duties and Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the Senior Advisor to the Director-General, the Associate Professional (AP) will assist in the following duties:
Support the day to day operations of the Direct Support Unit, in particular, preparation of the Director-General’s internal and external meetings, missions, speaking engagements and participation in conferences, including the preparation of background documentation such as briefing notes, talking points, speeches, substantive information and files, and other supporting documents, as well as related correspondence and logistics;
- Prepare draft responses to letters and other communications addressed to the DirectorGeneral, and ensure accuracy of text, proficiency of language, and timeliness of response;
- Assist in the follow-up to the Director-General’s meetings and missions, including preparation of meeting minutes, and the effective dissemination of pertinent information to relevant parties;
- Maintain communication with external partners, including delegations and Governments, and other international organisations, and follow up on required actions including coordination and engagement with internal divisions and external stakeholders;
- Research, compile and summarize background materials for use in preparation of reports, briefs, speeches, etc.; scan reports from different organizations, as well as newspapers, magazine, periodicals and other information sources to identify articles of relevance (renewable energy issues) to the work of the Agency;
- Liaise with the Communication Office to align the visibility of the Director General’s engagements with the more general communication strategy of the Agency
- Rationalize the Direct Support Unit’s archive and contribute to the development of an efficient filing system;
- Perform other duties as required.
Competencies
Professionalism: Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results; is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns; shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations.
Communication: Ability to communicate effectively with various types of individuals and institutions. Speaks and writes clearly and effectively; listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately; asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two-way communication; tailors language, tone, style and format to match audience; demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals; solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others; places team agenda before personal agenda; supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position; shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
Accountability: Takes ownership of all responsibilities and honours commitments; delivers outputs for which one has responsibility within prescribed time, cost and quality standards; operates in compliance with organizational regulations and rules; supports subordinates, provides oversight and takes responsibility for delegated assignments; takes personal responsibility for his/her own shortcomings and those of the work unit, where applicable.
Eligibility
Applicants should be no more than 32 years of age at the time of submitting their applications.
Qualifications
Education: Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in International Relations, Political Science, Communications, Management, Economics, Engineering, or a related field. A first-level university degree in combination with additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of advanced university degree.
Experience/Skills:Experience in international affairs, institutional relations, is desirable. Previous work experience in international/governmental institutions is an asset.
Languages:Excellent command of both written and spoken English is essential. Knowledge of additional languages is an asset. Proven drafting, communication and analytical skills are requirements.
Knowledge: Working knowledge of technical and policy aspects regarding renewable energy and/or climate change. Knowledge of international development issues and communication techniques is an added bonus.
Other: Proficient in MS Office applications including Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint is required. Good communication and networking skills desired. Public speaking ability a plus.
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Qualified candidates must apply for the above-mentioned vacancy on-line, through IRENA’s recruitment platform, ORC by submitting a complete and comprehensive CV and a letter of interest, including details of two professional references who might be contacted if their application is shortlisted.
Applications from qualified women, especially from nationals of developing countries, are highly encouraged.
Please note that only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted for an interview and will receive notice of the outcome of the selection process.
[1] Amount of monthly lump-sum depends on qualifications and years of relevant work experience. In addition: a monthly accommodation allowance (USD 1,600); relocation grant upon arrival/separation if relocation involved (USD 1,200); installation grant if relocation involved (USD 1,300); health insurance; other entitlements as applicable.
