Program Officer, Partnerships and External Affairs role at the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA): Apply Now!
Position Title: Program Officer, Partnerships and External Affairs
Location: Rotterdam, Netherlands or Nairobi, Kenya
Organization: Global Center on Adaptation (GCA)
Application Deadline: 02 June 2025
Start Date: As soon as possible
Level of Effort: Full-time (40 hours/week)
About the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA)
The Global Center on Adaptation (GCA) is a pioneering international organization committed to accelerating action on climate change adaptation globally. Established in 2018, GCA functions through a dual-headquarters model with its Global North office located in Rotterdam, the Netherlands—within the world’s largest floating office—and its Global South office based in Nairobi, Kenya.
GCA also operates regional hubs in Côte d’Ivoire, Bangladesh, and Beijing, along with a research and knowledge hub in Groningen, the Netherlands.At the heart of GCA’s mission is a dedication to safeguarding the world’s most vulnerable communities against the devastating impacts of climate change. The organization advances adaptation solutions across all levels of governance and works closely with both public and private sector partners. Through research, high-level policy engagement, strategic advocacy, and collaborative project delivery, GCA aims to mainstream climate adaptation into the global agenda.
Role Overview
As part of its External Affairs and Policy team, the Program Officer, Partnerships and External Affairs, will play a crucial role in advancing GCA’s flagship initiative, the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program (AAAP).
This program seeks to catalyze climate-resilient growth across the continent by mobilizing up to USD 25 billion and integrating adaptation solutions into national and continental development policies.
Reporting to the Senior Partnerships Manager for Africa, the Program Officer will contribute to the strategic implementation of the external affairs agenda in Africa. Their responsibilities will encompass advocacy, stakeholder engagement, partnership management, policy intelligence, and event coordination.
The position will serve as a vital link between GCA and a broad network of African institutions, including the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Union Commission (AUC), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), NEPAD, and national government agencies.
Key Responsibilities:
In the area of advocacy and outreach, the Program Officer will be responsible for enhancing political and public support for climate adaptation efforts in Africa.
This includes developing high-quality briefing materials, communication products, and presentations that align with GCA’s strategic messaging. A central focus will be the promotion of the AAAP as Africa’s premier vehicle for adaptation, highlighting its urgency and scalable solutions to mobilize significant financial resources. The Officer will also help design and execute high-profile AAAP events, managing all logistical, procurement, and communications components.
Additionally, the Officer will contribute to the development of the AAAP newsletter and coordinate with the communications division to ensure consistent and effective storytelling.In stakeholder relationship management, the Program Officer will support GCA’s engagement with ministries, sectoral agencies, and national coordination bodies across Africa.
They will help maintain productive relationships with key institutions such as the AUC, AfDB, UNECA, and NEPAD, facilitating joint work plans and regional dialogues. A critical component of this role will be maintaining an up-to-date stakeholder database and helping to build a robust continental community of practice around the AAAP.
The role also requires providing policy intelligence and analysis. The Program Officer will monitor global and regional climate policy developments, keeping GCA informed of emerging trends and opportunities.
They will analyze changes in the UNFCCC processes and global finance flows to assess implications for adaptation efforts in Africa. This includes identifying private sector opportunities through the evaluation of Africa’s financial landscape, including private equity, venture capital, and commercial banking instruments.
Qualifications & Experience
- Ideal candidates will hold a Master’s degree in international relations, economics, political science, public or environmental policy, or a closely related field.
- They should have a minimum of five years’ experience in external relations, partnerships, program implementation, or advocacy—preferably within the domains of climate change, sustainable development, or international cooperation.
- A strong understanding of international climate governance frameworks, particularly the Paris Agreement, is essential. Experience engaging with African regional institutions and multilateral organizations, such as AfDB, AUC, and the UN system, is highly desirable.
- Applicants should demonstrate excellent stakeholder engagement skills, including the ability to build consensus across diverse institutional and cultural contexts.
- Political and cultural sensitivity, along with effective planning and organizational abilities, are key to succeeding in this fast-paced and dynamic environment.
- Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in French is considered an advantage.
What GCA Offers
GCA provides a competitive salary and benefits package, 25 days of annual leave, and additional allowances including transportation benefits in the Netherlands. The organization is deeply committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified candidates, regardless of background, are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a motivation letter and CV through by Monday, 02 June 2025.
APPLY HERE
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