Policy Advisor (gn) for Germany-China Energy and Climate Diplomacy

24-32h / week; location: Berlin, Germany; ideally starting as of 1 January 2025 for 12 months with the intent to extend; Application deadline: December 1st 2024

Germanwatch is a non-profit, independent and science-based organisation that works effectively for justice at the global and national levels, as well as for the protection of human rights and ecological foundations (especially climate, biodiversity, resources). Our focus is on ensuring that Germany and the EU implement constructive and democratic policies - both domestically and internationally in a bilateral and multilateral context. For more than 30 years we have been building communicative bridges between people, organisations, companies, trade unions, politics and society. We also make a difference through innovative alliances and with partners in the Global South. Our motto: Observing. Analysing. Acting.

The relationship of Germany and the European Union with China on matters related to climate and energy is becoming both more complicated and more important than ever: Without China, the global energy transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy that is necessary to reach the objectives of the Paris climate agreement will be impossible to achieve. In an increasingly tense geopolitical context, the relationship needs to be redefined, including elements of dialogue and cooperation, clear formulation of expectations as well as competition.

We are looking for a motivated candidate to join us for a new project of our International Climate Policy division to provide expert analysis on climate and energy developments in China, develop recommendations on Sino-German relations in this field and to strengthen Germanwatch’s work in advocating for an ambitious, smart and effective climate and energy diplomacy with China.

Policy Advisor (gn) for Germany-China Energy and Climate Diplomacy

1. Analyze energy and climate policy developments in China as well as related to China and publicize these analyses, working with a dynamic team of international climate policy and communications experts
2. Develop recommendations on effective energy and climate diplomacy vis-à-vis China
3. Conceptualize and implement written briefings, workshops and other dialogue formats that will provide analysis and recommendations to German decision-makers and their advisors
4. Organize outreach to Germany's policy and expert community as well as traditional and specialized online media
5. Engage with and further develop Germanwatch’s network of international partners working on similar issues

1. A graduate degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., economics, politics, international relations, environmental science or China studies) or an equivalent combination of education and practical experience
2. Strong competence in policy analysis, particularly related to China’s energy transition and climate policy
3. Extensive work experience in climate and energy advocacy and/or diplomacy vis-à-vis China in government, international institutions, CSOs, think tanks, corporations and/or administration
4. Excellent communication skills and ability to adapt communication to various target groups, including strong writing and presentation skills
5. Professional level Mandarin language proficiency, excellent written and spoken English skills; ideally business fluent in written and spoken German, but at least the willingness to reach at least B1 level within one year and B2 in perspective
6.  An established network of experts on Chinese energy and/or climate action is an asset

1. A part-time position (60-80%, i.e. 24 - 32 hours per week) remunerated in line with the German public service and initially limited to one year. An extension of the position is desired
2. 30 vacation days (based on a 5-day week)
3. Flexible and family-friendly working time models as well as flexibility in the place of work (work from home/remote work possible to an agreed and limited extent)
4. Support with technical equipment, also for working from home
5. Personal and professional training opportunities
6. Support in obtaining a visa and work permit
7. German benefits scheme, including health insurance
8. The opportunity to have an effective influence on political debates and processes together with a committed, friendly team