Programmleiter (m/w/d) - Saubere Energie

Job Description

iFOREST is seeking an experienced and motivated professional to lead the implementation and growth of its Clean Energy Programme in Odisha. The selected candidate will play a central role in managing research, policy advisory, stakeholder engagement, and implementation support initiatives aimed at accelerating renewable energy deployment in the state. Working closely with government departments, public agencies, industries, development partners, and internal programme teams, the Programme Lead will be responsible for driving project delivery, building strategic partnerships, supporting programme development, and translating research and policy recommendations into actionable programmes, projects, and investments.

The role requires a strong understanding of the renewable energy sector, demonstrated research capacity, proven programme management capabilities, and the ability to operate effectively in a dynamic policy and stakeholder environment.

Position Summary

The Programme Lead, Clean Energy - Odisha will serve as the principal anchor for iFOREST's clean energy portfolio in the state, working closely with the Regional Director, Odisha and the Director, Clean Energy to deliver research, policy advisory, stakeholder engagement, and implementation support initiatives. The role will be responsible for managing ongoing projects, supporting government partnerships, coordinating programme teams, ensuring high-quality delivery of outputs and outcomes, and identifying new opportunities to accelerate renewable energy deployment and clean energy transition in Odisha.

The ideal candidate should possess strong programme management capabilities, a deep understanding of India's renewable energy sector, excellent stakeholder engagement skills, and demonstrated experience in translating research and policy recommendations into actionable programmes and projects.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Implementation of the Odisha Clean Energy Portfolio

• Lead execution and management of all ongoing clean energy projects and initiatives in Odisha.
• Ensure timely delivery of committed activities, outputs, milestones, and reporting requirements.
• Develop and manage annual workplans, implementation strategies, and project delivery frameworks.
• Monitor project progress and proactively address implementation challenges and risks.
• Coordinate with central programme team to ensure quality, consistency, and timely delivery of outputs.

Lead Research, Analysis and Technical Support

• Lead primary and secondary research related to renewable energy deployment, industrial decarbonisation, storage, green hydrogen, demand aggregation, and emerging clean energy technologies.
• Oversee preparation of assessments, implementation frameworks, policy recommendations, investment strategies, and technical reports.
• Ensure research outputs are policy-relevant, implementation-oriented, and aligned with stakeholder needs.
• Support development of state-level roadmaps, action plans, project pipelines, and investment frameworks.
• Maintain quality control across programme deliverables and knowledge products.

Manage Government Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as the primary programme interface with government departments, agencies, and public institutions in Odisha.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with the Department of Energy, GRIDCO, OREDA, OPTCL, EIC, IDCO, and other relevant agencies.
• Facilitate regular engagement with industries, developers, financial institutions, industry associations, research institutions, and development partners.
• Support government departments in translating policy priorities into actionable programmes and projects.
• Organise and manage consultations, workshops, roundtables, conferences, and stakeholder meetings.

Support Programme Development and Growth

• Identify emerging opportunities, policy priorities, and partnerships aligned with Odisha's clean energy transition objectives.
• Support development of concept notes, proposals, budgets, and engagement strategies for new initiatives.

Team Leadership and Coordination

• Manage and coordinate programme staff, consultants, and partner organisations involved in project implementation.
• Mentor junior team members and support their professional development.
• Allocate responsibilities, monitor performance, and ensure effective coordination across projects.

Institutional Representation and Outreach

• Represent iFOREST in state-level meetings, conferences, consultations, and public events.
• Support dissemination of research findings and programme outcomes through presentations, publications, and stakeholder engagement.
• Contribute to strengthening iFOREST's institutional profile and thought leadership in Odisha's clean energy sector.
• Support cross-programme collaboration and institutional initiatives, as required.

Qualifications and Experience

• Master's degree or higher in energy policy, public policy, economics, engineering, management, sustainability, or a related field.
• 10+ years of relevant professional experience in renewable energy, energy transition, climate policy, infrastructure, or related sectors, in research and advisory.
• Demonstrated experience working with government agencies, utilities, industries, or development organisations.
• Strong understanding of renewable energy policies, regulations, markets, and implementation challenges in India is a must

Required Competencies

• Deep understanding of renewable energy and energy transition issues.
• Strong analytical, research, writing, and presentation abilities.
• Strong programme management and execution capabilities.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to manage complex projects involving multiple stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Strategic thinking with a solution-oriented and entrepreneurial mindset.
• Ability to work effectively in dynamic policy environments and manage competing priorities.
• Willingness to travel extensively within Odisha and across India as required.

What We Offer

At iFOREST, we provide an inclusive and supportive work environment and are committed to professional development through continuous learning, training, and leadership opportunities.

• Opportunity to shape and drive one of India's most ambitious state-level sustainability and climate action portfolios.
• Direct engagement with senior policymakers, industry leaders, and development partners.
• Leadership role in a fast-growing and mission-driven organisation.
• Exposure to cutting-edge work across energy transition, industrial decarbonisation, climate resilience, just transition, and sustainable development.
• Competitive compensation aligned with experience and organisational norms.

Remuneration

We offer a competitive compensation package commensurate with qualifications, experience, and leadership responsibilities. The final designation and compensation will be based on the profile of the selected candidate.

Application Instructions

• We prefer that candidates apply from LinkedIn or submit online applications at https://iforest.global/careers/. If you encounter any issues, you may send your application to [email protected]. Please mention reference code (PL/OH-06-06/26) in the subject line.
• Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.