About the job
The Freshwater Policy Expert supports the efforts to protect and restore freshwater ecosystems and their services in Romania by advocating for the integration of freshwater ecosystems conservation, Nature-based Solutions into water management policies, and relevant connected sectors (e.g. agriculture, urban planning, etc).
The position holder contributes to the WWF Romania’s missions and objectives, by supporting WWF Romania Freshwater Manager in advocating for good governance at the national level that will improve the integration of freshwater conservation principles and solutions into relevant policies and better implementation of existing legislation and regulations, especially regarding high impact sectors.
Your duties will include:
- Providing a comprehensive analysis of national policies impacting the freshwater ecosystems (water management, agriculture, fishery & aquaculture, energy generation, Danube delta governance, navigation, etc);
- Assessing social, political, and economic context and developments and identifying risks for negative impact on freshwater ecosystems (with focus on Danube delta and Lower Danube);
- Developing the advocacy strategy for the freshwater policy objectives (targets) and the action/ work plan for implementation, monitoring/evaluating results;
- Developing adequate recommendations on policies and strategies, environmental (legislative) procedures, or drafting laws and amendments related to freshwater program priorities (strategic plan);
- Contributing to WWF freshwater program planning, coordination, implementation, and reporting with a view to promoting advocacy work on freshwater topics;
- Carrying out consultations with relevant local and national stakeholders (with a focus on Danube Delta and Lower Danube) for freshwater topics and providing advice;
- Engaging, developing, and maintaining strategic relationships with key partners and networks, and representing WWF Romania (with a focus on topics relevant to freshwater) in relevant groups, workshops, and policy events;
- Contributing to WWF Romania’s awareness-raising, policy debates, and discussions ensuring spreading the of Freshwater conservation measures into the relevant policies;
- Supporting implementation of specific freshwater project activities (including advocacy campaigns) through policy-related work and expertise;
- Supporting fundraising activities/project development.
We expect from you:
- Adhere to the WWF mission, as well LIVES in line with the WWF Values: Courage, Integrity, Respect, and Collaboration
Knowledge:
- University degree at Masters level or equivalent in Political Science, Natural sciences, Economy, Law, or some discipline relevant to freshwater-related policy work;
- Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Romanian and EU policies and legislation, integrated planning procedures, and stakeholder involvement;
- Understanding of politics, socio-economics, and sustainable development issues in Romania;
- Excellent command of written and spoken Romanian and English
- Computer literacy
Experience:
- Substantial professional experience (at least 5 years working experience) in positions with similar responsibilities;
- Experienced in working with different/difficult people and in different/difficult environments;
- Proven experience in writing position papers, and background documents;
- Previous experience in Project Management and project development would be an advantage;
Skills and Abilities:
- Strong analytical skills
- Strategic thinking
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to transmit key messages in order to be embraced by audiences
- Strong prioritization and time management skills
- Strong coordination skills
- Excellent interpersonal communication skills
- Excellent team player
We offer
- The opportunity to make a difference – for Romania and for WWF
- Challenging and fulfilling work in one of Europe’s most exciting eco-regions
- Friendly and highly professional working atmosphere in an international context
- Varying tasks and independent work style
- A pleasant working atmosphere and a great learning environment
