Job Summary
- Type: part-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Policy
- Closing Date: 2026-07-12
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the policy and regulatory innovation portfolio across NetZeroCities.
- Coordinate policy work spanning EU institutions, national governments, and city-level initiatives.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with consortium partners and external stakeholders.
- Design and facilitate policy innovation workshops, policy labs, and collaborative processes.
- Deliver presentations and facilitate discussions with senior audiences across Europe.
- Build multidisciplinary delivery teams by bringing together legal, technical, regulatory, and policy experts.
- Navigate complex consortium environments while maintaining focus on measurable outcomes.
- Support the strategic evolution of Dark Matter Labs’ policy innovation work and future City Transition Lab initiatives.
Requirements
- Extensive policy experience involving cities, climate policy, and multi-level governance.
- Strong understanding of how policy and regulatory change is implemented within municipal and national contexts.
- Excellent judgement and decision-making in politically complex environments.
- Outstanding communication, stakeholder management, and partnership-building skills.
- Confidence presenting to senior government, EU, and international audiences.
- An entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to take ownership from strategy through implementation.
- Experience coordinating complex projects while balancing relationship management and policy delivery.
- Experience working within European policy environments, particularly in countries such as Romania, Finland, Italy, Ireland, Spain, or the Netherlands.
- Experience with Horizon Europe or similar EU-funded consortium programmes.
- Knowledge of EU policy processes relating to energy, mobility, planning, governance, finance, or the built environment.
- Background in designing policy labs, regulatory sandboxes, or structured innovation programmes.
- Experience within European Commission-funded programmes, national governments, or major city institutions.
- Fluency in one or more European languages in addition to English.
- An established professional reputation within urban policy innovation or climate governance.
Salary
£26,000 – £44,373 per year (pro-rata, depending on location and pay formula)
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What academic background and specific skills are typically required for a Policy Innovation Expert role focusing on net-zero cities in Zimbabwe?
Candidates typically need a Master's degree in fields like public policy, environmental science, urban planning, or a related social science discipline. Strong analytical skills, experience with policy research, and a deep understanding of climate change mitigation strategies are crucial for success in this expert role. Local knowledge of Zimbabwean urban challenges and governance structures would also be highly valued.
What would a typical day look like for this role, especially concerning local challenges and stakeholders in Zimbabwe?
A Policy Innovation Expert would typically spend their days conducting research, analyzing policy frameworks, and engaging with diverse stakeholders including government officials, local authorities, and community groups. This involves developing innovative policy recommendations for net-zero city transitions, preparing detailed reports, and potentially facilitating workshops to build local capacity. Adapting global best practices to the specific socio-economic and political context of Zimbabwean cities is a key daily challenge.
How does the work culture for policy innovation roles in Zimbabwe differ from international norms, and what are the key expectations for collaboration?
The work culture in Zimbabwean policy roles often emphasizes strong professional relationships, respect for hierarchy, and a collaborative approach, especially when engaging with government ministries and local councils. Punctuality and adherence to established protocols are highly valued, alongside the ability to navigate complex administrative processes and build consensus among diverse stakeholders. Patience and persistence are also important given the sometimes lengthy consultation and approval procedures.
What are the realistic career growth opportunities or next steps for a Policy Innovation Expert in the environmental/urban policy sector in Zimbabwe?
A Policy Innovation Expert can advance to senior policy advisor roles, program management positions within NGOs, or even transition into consulting for international development organizations focused on sustainable urban development in Zimbabwe. Further specialization in areas like renewable energy policy or climate finance could also open doors to leadership roles in government agencies or research institutions. Continuous professional development and networking within the environmental and urban planning sectors are vital for upward mobility.
What typical employment benefits, such as leave, medical aid, or pension, can a job seeker expect for such a specialized policy role in Zimbabwe?
For a specialized role like this, typical benefits in Zimbabwe usually include a comprehensive medical aid package, guaranteed annual leave days as per labor laws, and contributions to a pension fund. Some employers might also offer professional development allowances or transport assistance, depending on the organization's policies and funding. These benefits aim to attract and retain skilled professionals in critical policy areas.
What is the most effective way to apply for this type of role in Zimbabwe, and what specific qualities do employers typically prioritize in candidates?
To apply, job seekers should submit a tailored CV and a compelling cover letter highlighting their policy expertise, innovation track record, and specific interest in net-zero cities, emphasizing any relevant experience in Zimbabwe or similar contexts. Employers typically look for strong analytical capabilities, proven experience in stakeholder engagement and policy formulation, and a clear understanding of local governance and environmental challenges. Demonstrating a proactive approach and problem-solving skills, coupled with excellent communication, will significantly enhance an application.