Work with us: we’re looking for a EU Urban Policy Expert

Are you passionate about catalysing change towards a sustainable and joyful next era? Are you a professional on EU policies with a drive to support policymakers in the EU and European cities in their decarbonisation efforts? Join Demos Helsinki and contribute your expertise on EU Policy Advocacy as part of NetZeroCities and the EU Cities Mission.

Demos Helsinki is a globally operating independent think tank. We are a community of motivated experts working for a more fair, sustainable and joyful future, and we believe that change can only happen together. That is why we carry out consultative and research projects together with hundreds of partners around the world. Unlike many other think tanks, we are predominantly project-funded and fully independent, without any political affiliations. Over 20 years we have grown into a 70+ person organisation working on over 100 projects per year with a forecasted revenue of roughly 5 M€.

NetZeroCities is part of the EU Mission 100 Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities by 2030. It is a Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme, rolling out to support the European Union’s Green Deal. Demos Helsinki is one of the 34 organisations in the NetZeroCities consortium supporting the 112 Mission Cities on their path towards climate neutrality.

EU Urban Policy Expert

As an EU Urban Policy Expert at Demos Helsinki, you will provide expertise and insights in supporting policy engagement and developing decarbonisation efforts in the EU. This role’s particular focus is on leading engagement and communication between the European Commission and the cities, building dialogue and opportunities to discuss the implementation of the EU Cities Mission (and other policy and governance frameworks), and developing innovative approaches for urban transformations and multilevel action through policy and governance. 

Examples of activities that will be initially expected: 

• Leading the policy engagement and dialogue between the European Commission and cities on urban climate action as part of the NetZeroCities.
• Providing support to Demos Helsinki team members in EU Policy Advoacy and developing policy and governance recommendations for the EU to improve the implementation of the EU Cities Mission.
• Organising dialogues and events engaging both political and technical experts from the EU, as well as national and city levels.
• Support cities on effective policy innovations, regulations and incentives to support cities’ efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

What traits likely indicate success:

• You are an expert with an understanding of, and interest in, some of the main themes (e.g. EU climate policy, EU decision-making, urban policy and governance) gained through work experience and/or studies
• Experience and understanding of key climate policy development at the EU level, and trends at the local level in European cities
• Ability to contribute to policies and EU policy-making processes (especially related to urban development, climate and environmental policies and/or research and innovation)
• Strong advocacy, interpersonal and communication skills to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders, build relationships, and facilitate knowledge exchange
• Ability to think holistically and develop innovative strategies and approaches towards climate neutrality in cities
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities to assess complex situations, identify barriers, and develop evidence-based recommendations and solutions
• Willingness to work in a dynamic and evolving international project environment, adapting to new challenges and emerging priorities

What do we expect to happen in the first 12 months? 

• Actively contributing to Demos Helsinki EU Policy Impact -activities,  for example, providing valuable insights and recommendations to guide decision-making and policy processes
• Supporting the NetZeroCities project in assessing Mission Cities’ capital and finance needs, and actively contributing with your expertise to design and deliver support and capacity-building activities to address these challenges.
• Collaborating with project partners and experts in organising events to connect Mission Cities with potential investors and financing solutions.
• Sharing your expertise and knowledge with the project consortium members, project team and relevant stakeholders through presentations, workshops, reports, and other communication channels
• Participating in the assessment of project progress, evaluating the effectiveness of strategies and interventions and identifying areas for improvement
• In addition to project work, a part of your working time would be allocated to shorter and longer-term sales activities in the EU policy advocacy

Some practicalities:

• Due to funding requirements, the employee needs to be positioned in Finland. Demos Helsinki has an office in Helsinki, but you can also live elsewhere in Finland.
• Some travel is required, but most meetings and workshops are held remotely.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are required.
• Salary: €3640 or €4160 per month depending on previous experience
• Start of Employment: May-June 2024
• Type of Employment Contract: fixed-term until the end of 2027 (permanent contract also possible)

How to apply?

In the first phase of candidate selection, we have an anonymous application process. You can apply for the positions by filling out the application form, but details irrelevant to the preliminary selection (e.g., your name and city) are temporarily hidden when we review the applications. The anonymous application process ensures that the preliminary selection is influenced only by information relevant to the role. 

Based on this application, we will invite candidates to interviews during the application period. We will fill the position as soon as we find a suitable candidate. The application period is open until Sunday, March 30, 23.59 (EEST). All applicants will be informed of their status in the application process during the following week.

For further information, you can contact Senior Expert Johannes Mikkonen (+358405694946, johannes.mikkonen@demoshelsinki.fi) by phone on Thursday 13.3, between 12-1 pm, Wednesday 19.3, between 10-11 am, or Monday 24.3, between 11 am -12 pm.  All times EET/EEST.

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*A previous version of this article featured a different deadline for the application.