About Centre for Net Zero...

Centre for Net Zero is a non-profit, impact-driven energy research institute headquartered in London. Founded by renewable energy group Octopus Energy, Centre for Net Zero combines the roles of industry researcher, advanced modelling innovation startup, and academia-to-policy conduit. This breadth of capability enables the organisation to not only foresee how a zero-fossil fuel grid can be achieved on a global scale, but also to instigate real-world system change through influencing policy.

While technology is transforming the energy sector, both modelling and policymaking are typically based on data from the past. By contrast, Centre for Net Zero can access unprecedented insight into future human behaviours, from domestic to global grid level, by combining dynamic analysis of Octopus Energy’s vast customer datasets and an ambitious global programme of field trials. The Centre is consequently able to investigate, anticipate and model micro and macro sector scenarios, and generate real-world, actionable insights into how tech can create change in energy. As a result, Centre for Net Zero connects and focuses the efforts of academics, governments, policymakers, and grid operators in a pioneering way.

As a non-profit company within the Octopus Energy Group, the Centre pursues change for the whole energy landscape. It leads its own research agenda and operates autonomously.

About this role...

We are looking for an experienced policy professional to support the Centre’s work influencing political and global decision-makers. You will be part of a small, focused team, working alongside our Director of External Affairs and Senior Policy Adviser who deliver activities focused on bridging the gap between our research findings, and real-world system change.

This role will effect collaboration with relevant national and international authorities to review, shape, and influence policy decisions, and enhance Centre for Net Zero’s global reputation and visibility in the energy transition. As we internationalise our focus and research, key markets we want to engage with beyond the UK include the US, Europe, Japan, New Zealand, and Australia.

As a proven leader in a policy and comms function with strong advocacy skills, the candidate will draw on their experience to foster close relationships with the highest influence stakeholders in the energy sector and beyond, successfully accelerating global energy transitions.

CNZ’s approach to field trials, tech development, and policy is pioneering, so the candidate will need to be comfortable leading and directly contributing to activities where the thinking is new and original and the ability to fall back on established views is limited.

Application Deadline: 29th April - 9am