The Climate and Energy Cooperation Group (CECG) is Seeking a Programme Director (Remote) – Apply Before 23 March 2026

The Climate and Energy Cooperation Group (CECG) is seeking a strategic and experienced Programme Director (PD) to lead high-impact climate programming in a globally remote capacity. Preference will be given to candidates based in Sub-Saharan Africa, South-East Asia, or East Asia.

This is a full-time, fixed-term management position reporting to the Chief Programme Officer (CPO). The closing date for applications is Monday, 23 March 2026 at 9:00 am CET. Salary is competitive.

Organisational Background

CECG is a philanthropic fund established by some of the world’s largest climate philanthropies to advance climate solutions through strengthened international cooperation.

As both a re-granter and thought leader, CECG operates as:

• A strategic bridge builder and convener
• A funder of high-impact partners
• A trusted advisor within international climate diplomacy

CECG’s work includes:

• Supporting partners to develop strategies and campaigns that drive ambitious outcomes in multilateral and plurilateral climate processes
• Helping stakeholders navigate and influence complex international negotiations (formal and informal)
• Providing philanthropic actors with insights and access to urgent climate diplomacy opportunities

Purpose of the Role

The Programme Director is responsible for developing and executing a clear, high-impact programme strategy aligned with CECG’s mission and strategic framework.

The PD will:

• Define a compelling programme vision and theory of change
• Oversee responsible and effective grantmaking
• Provide thought leadership in their thematic area
• Shape global climate discourse through strategic positioning
• Build and maintain strong relationships across governments, civil society, philanthropy, academia, and the private sector
• Support fundraising efforts in coordination with senior leadership

The Programme Director is a member of the Programme Leadership Team (PLT), chaired by the CPO, and plays a central role in shaping organisational priorities and delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Programme Strategy Development (10%)

The Programme Director will:

• Lead the development of a clearly articulated programme strategy
• Develop:
  • A robust theory of change
  • Defined pathways to impact
  • Prioritised resource allocation
  • Structured “work packages” for execution
• Ensure strategies are rooted in ecosystem realities through donor and field consultation
• Present strategies for approval to relevant governance bodies
• Identify opportunities for programmatic growth within CECG’s mandate

Programme Strategy Execution (65%)

The PD is accountable for delivering measurable impact through effective implementation.

Key responsibilities include:

Strategic Implementation

• Develop detailed implementation plans
• Assign responsibilities to Programme Managers
• Monitor budgets and ensure value for money
• Oversee grant-making in collaboration with Grants and Finance teams
• Present grant proposals through appropriate governance channels

External Representation & Field Leadership

• Build and maintain strong networks across:
  • Governments
  • International institutions
  • Civil society
  • Academia
  • Private sector
  • Philanthropy
• Represent CECG in strategic convenings and negotiations
• Provide thought leadership and peer engagement
• Lead advocacy and public engagement when appropriate

Monitoring, Learning & Compliance

• Oversee monitoring, evaluation, and adaptive learning
• Ensure lessons inform strategy refinement
• Coordinate with Operations to ensure compliance and donor reporting
• Provide regular updates to the CPO and governance bodies

Organisational Growth

• Identify new strategic opportunities
• Develop emerging focus areas into future programme strategies
• Contribute to scaling CECG’s long-term impact

Fundraising Support (10%)

In coordination with the Partnership Manager and CEO, the PD will:

• Support fundraising efforts aligned with programme goals
• Engage prospective donors and build new funding relationships
• Act as a brand ambassador for CECG
• Oversee relevant funder steering or working groups

People Management (15%)

The Programme Director will lead and inspire a high-performing team.

Responsibilities include:

• Providing clear direction and performance expectations
• Delegating effectively and empowering Programme Managers
• Fostering an inclusive and psychologically safe environment
• Coaching staff and supporting professional development
• Ensuring adherence to policies and procedures
• Managing team resources and workload distribution

CECG values trust-based leadership and distributed decision-making.

Candidate Profile

CECG seeks a senior leader with demonstrated expertise in climate diplomacy and strategic programme management.

Experience

• Minimum 8 years’ senior management experience
• Background in public policy and public affairs
• Proven experience delivering change through:
  • Advocacy
  • Campaigning
  • Strategic communications
• Strong stakeholder management track record
• Experience in multilateral or UN settings
• Experience in philanthropy and grant management
• Desirable: Background or networks in trade or global security

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Climate, Energy, Environment, Economics, International Policy, Political Science, Management, Development Studies, or related field

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking combined with operational execution
• Strong diplomatic and negotiation skills
• Ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Comfort operating in politically sensitive environments
• Strong budget oversight and governance understanding

Special Requirements

• International travel approximately 20–30 days per year
• Candidates must already have the legal right to work in their country of residence

Application Process

Applicants must submit:

• CV/Resume
• Cover letter outlining suitability and motivation

For informal inquiries, candidates may contact Shoshana Grammer at Upsall International. Applications will not be accepted via email to ensure GDPR compliance.

The deadline for applications is Monday, 23 March 2026 at 9:00 am CET.

Upsall International promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion, welcoming applicants regardless of race, gender, religion or belief, age, disability, or sexual orientation.

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape global climate cooperation, strengthen international diplomacy, and drive transformative climate outcomes through strategic philanthropy.

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Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the organization seeking for the position. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.