Principal Energy Policy Analyst

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,300,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan contributions

Annual leave and professional dev.预算

Job summary

Placements24 in East London, Eastern Cape, seeks a Principal Energy Policy Analyst to lead research and formulate policy recommendations shaping South Africa’s energy future. You will evaluate markets, regulations, and socio-economic impacts to advise governments, industry leaders, and international bodies.

A deep knowledge of energy economics and policy development is essential, with a focus on renewables, grid modernization, and climate policy.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. with strong policy focus.
• 10+ years in energy policy analysis, research, or advisory roles.
• Expertise in energy economics, regulatory frameworks, and policy analysis.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead research on national and international energy policies and market trends.
• Develop innovative policy recommendations on energy transition and grid design.
• Evaluate economic, social, and environmental impacts of policies.
• Prepare policy briefs, white papers, and presentations for policymakers and industry.
• Engage with government officials, industry, academics, and civil society.
• Lead complex research projects and ensure timely outputs.
• Mentor junior analysts within the policy team.
• Represent the organization at conferences and public forums on energy policy.
• Monitor global best practices and emerging trends in energy policy.
• Contribute to strategic direction and growth of the policy research agenda.

Skills

Energy policy analysis

Research leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Energy economics

Policy development

Renewable energy

Climate policy

Project management

Communication skills

Data analysis

Education

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Economics, Public Policy, Energy Management, Environmental Science, or a related field

Job description

About the Role: Our client, a highly influential think tank and advisory body focused on energy and sustainability, is seeking a distinguished Principal Energy Policy Analyst to join their team in East London, Eastern Cape. This senior role is dedicated to researching, analyzing, and formulating strategic policy recommendations that shape the future of the energy sector in South Africa and beyond. You will be instrumental in evaluating energy markets, regulatory frameworks, technological advancements, and socio-economic impacts to advise governments, industry leaders, and international organizations. The ideal candidate will possess a deep and comprehensive understanding of energy economics, policy development, and the complexities of the global energy transition, with a specific focus on renewable energy, grid modernization, and climate change mitigation. This is a unique opportunity to lead impactful research initiatives and influence critical decision-making processes from a strategic location. We are committed to driving evidence-based policy and require a thought leader with exceptional analytical acumen and outstanding communication skills. Your insights will contribute significantly to achieving sustainable energy goals and fostering economic development. The role demands a proactive approach to research, a strategic vision, and the ability to translate complex analysis into clear, actionable policy advice.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth research and analysis on national and international energy policies, market trends, and regulatory developments.
• Develop and articulate innovative policy recommendations related to energy transition, climate change, energy security, and market design.
• Evaluate the economic, social, and environmental impacts of various energy policies and technologies.
• Prepare high-quality reports, policy briefs, white papers, and presentations for diverse audiences, including policymakers, industry executives, and the public.
• Engage with key stakeholders, including government officials, industry representatives, academics, and civil society organizations.
• Lead and manage complex research projects, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality outputs.
• Mentor and guide junior analysts and researchers within the policy team.
• Represent the organization at conferences, workshops, and public forums on energy policy matters.
• Monitor and analyze global best practices and emerging trends in energy policy and regulation.
• Contribute to the strategic direction and growth of the organization's policy research agenda.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Economics, Public Policy, Energy Management, Environmental Science, or a related field with a strong policy focus.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in energy policy analysis, research, or strategic advisory roles, preferably within a think tank, government agency, consultancy, or international organization.
• Demonstrated expertise in energy economics, regulatory frameworks, and policy analysis methodologies.
• Strong understanding of renewable energy technologies, grid integration challenges, energy markets, and climate policy.
• Proven ability to conduct rigorous quantitative and qualitative research and analysis.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and facilitation.
• Strong project management skills and ability to lead research initiatives.
• Familiarity with the South African energy landscape and policy context is highly desirable.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a dynamic research environment.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and senior-level compensation package.
• Performance-based bonus and potential for profit sharing.
• Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous retirement plan contributions.
• Significant annual leave and professional development budget.
• Opportunity to influence national energy policy and contribute to a sustainable future.
• Dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment.
• Travel opportunities for conferences and stakeholder engagements.
• Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.

Lead impactful research that shapes the energy sector in Eastern Cape and South Africa.