FLAG Interoperability & Technical Engagement Lead

Job Purpose and Background:

The Science Based Targets (SBTi) initiative is looking for a FLAG Interoperability and Technical Engagement Lead to lead the engagement and consultations related to the Technical Department’s work on the agriculture, forestry, and land use (AFOLU) sectors.

This position will report to the Head of Interoperability & Technical Engagement with dotted line reporting to the Head of Sector Standards.

This role plays an important part in achieving:

The forest, land, and agriculture (FLAG) sector is one of the most affected by the impacts of climate change. But it is also a significant source of emissions. It represents 22% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions - the largest emitting sector after energy. The role is pivotal in rolling out a programme to gather insights from stakeholders through expert working groups, and public consultations, as part of SBTi’s overall research in view of a revision of its FLAG criteria. This role will also contribute to SBTi’s recognition framework for third-party certificates, with a focus on AFOLU sectors.

You are a great fit for this role if you: are a forestry, agriculture, and land use sector and decarbonization expert, with very strong skills in leading work with large groups of diverse stakeholders. You are able to use your experience to record important technical insights from different types of stakeholders, build consensus where necessary, and bring these insights to the standard-writing team.

About the SBTi:

The SBTi is a global body enabling businesses to set ambitious emissions reduction targets in line with the latest climate science. It is focused on accelerating companies worldwide to halve emissions before 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions before 2050.

The SBTi defines and promotes best practices in science-based target setting, offers resources and guidance to reduce barriers to adoption, and independently assesses and approves companies’ targets.

For more information, please visit www.sciencebasedtargets.org

Key responsibilities include:

• In collaboration with AFOLU Lead and AFOLU technical team, designs and runs a broad programme of online and in-person expert working groups with stakeholders to gather insights for the revision of SBTi’s FLAG normative framework
• Translates stakeholder insights into resources that can inform technical-standard-writing team
• Runs consultation processes on draft standards in accordance with SBTi’s SOP
• Works with Head of Interoperability & Technical Engagement on developing recognition framework for third-party certificates in the AFOLU sectors
• Monitors emerging trends, research, and policies relevant to the organization's work to maintain cutting-edge expertise.
• Leads work to prepare technical material, e.g. presentations, webinars, and workshops to disseminate key findings
• Contributes to cross-departmental collaboration to maximize the impact and applicability of their work.
• Role models respectful behavior, open communication, and integrity as vital pillars of SBTi’s culture.

Essential skills and experience needed:

• 10+ years of professional experience in the relevant field, demonstrating solid knowledge in AFOLU sectors, standard-setting, GHG accounting, science-based target-setting, and decarbonization of the corporate sector.
• Familiarity with the AFOLU sustainability standards ecosystem (NGOs, companies etc.)
• Familiarity with sustainability or certification frameworks for major land-based commodities,including agricultural, animal-based, and forestry (timber, pulp, paper) sectors, is desirable
• Strong track record of delivering assigned responsibilities on time and to high standards.
• Experience in leading groups of stakeholders
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey technical concepts to non-technical audiences.
• Proficiency in relevant tools and software required for the role to be successful.
• Solid technical/specialist knowledge of the AFOLU sector.
• Willingness to travel

Desirable criteria:

• An existing network of contacts in the AFOLU ecosystem
• Knowledge and willingness to work on other sectors

Important information before you apply.

• This is a full-time role based in London (preferred)
• The salary for this role will depend on location and experience level.
• This role is a fixed-term contract for 12 months with the possibility of extension.
• This role holds a maximum 6-month probationary period, depending on country legislation.
• Interested candidates should be legally allowed to work in the specified countries and already be visa holders. The SBTi cannot sponsor working visas.

What we offer:

• Working in one of the most successful and fastest-growing initiatives driving climate action.
• Exciting and challenging tasks in a dynamic, international, innovative, and highly motivated team.
• Training and development.
• 30 days of time off, plus your country's bank holidays.
• Competitive NGO salary range offered if outside the UK

SBTi is an equal opportunity employer - committed to building an inclusive workplace and diverse staff, where all can thrive. We welcome and strongly encourage applications from candidates of all identities and backgrounds, and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or age.