The company

Beyond Zero Emissions is an internationally recognised think tank that shows through independent research and innovative solutions, how Australia can prosper in a zero-emissions economy.

They are unique among climate change research organisations in that their work inspires hope, confidence, and clarity of direction, rather than despair. They are fully focused on turbocharging Australia’s all-but-inevitable switch to a zero emissions economy

The role

BZE’s research describes what is necessary, not what is likely to happen without substantive policy, business, and community support. Their research is used to shift the public narrative about what is possible, and in doing so they aim to accelerate the transition to zero emissions.

Reporting to the CEO and leading a small team, the Head of Research will lead and design a program of relevant and ambitious research showing how economic sectors, major economic players and regional areas can rapidly transition to zero emissions. The position also leads aspirational projects that create a technically correct pathway from a real-world problem to a zero-emissions future.

Key responsibilities include:

• Lead the design and delivery of a high-impact research program
• Ensure research projects are underpinned by professional project management practices
• Establish and lead productive relationships with influential stakeholders in government, other research institutions, business, and community groups.
• Clearly communicate and promote research outcomes, supported by the Communications and Media Manager, with high value stakeholders, including writing media articles, and giving public presentations and media interviews.
• Identify and initiate opportunities for research projects that can positively influence climate action in Australia, including projects delivered in both commercial and/or philanthropic partnerships with governments, businesses, and other organisations.
• Support the CEO and CSO to develop commercial and philanthropic project funding proposals, negotiate and pitch for projects, the preparation of grant applications and responses to request-for-quotations.
• Assist the CEO and CSO with business development and organisational governance when required.

About you

You are resourceful, think creatively and work well across networks, stakeholders, and volunteers to develop and communicate climate solutions.

To thrive in this role, you will have the ability to pose the right questions, show the linkages between research to real world change and translate complex concepts to a diverse community of motivated professionals to engage and influence action.

Above all, you will be able to use research and technical solutions to form a compelling narrative that engages influential stakeholders.

Key experience

To be successful in this role you will have at least ten years’ experience in a similar leadership role, where you have created technically excellent solutions and communicated them persuasively to a broad audience. As well as being:

• A recognised expert in energy, you will need a solid understanding of the energy market and technical components of an affordable and reliable zero emissions grid. You might also have special expertise in manufacturing, buildings, transport, or drawdown.
• A compelling presenter who is confident with national media, technical audiences and debating technical solutions in a high-pressure environment.
• An experienced professional with a track record inspiring and leading a smart, motivated, and fun team who are dedicated to making a difference.
• You are also fine with the paperwork and management side of getting the job done.
• Audacious, solutions focused and optimistic about a thriving zero emissions future - your work at BZE will help make this a reality.

Other requirements

Please note this position is on-going, part-time (0.8 FTE) and can be worked flexibly, between Monday to Friday during the hours of 7AM and 5PM. From time to time this role will attend out-of-hours events (for example, evening presentations). This role will involve up to ten interstate travel trips a year and is based in Melbourne, Sydney or possibly Canberra.

For a full position description and further details please contact Claire at [email protected], using the subject line: Head of Research - Beyond Zero Emissions enquiry via EthicalJobs.