The Opportunity
For a complete understanding of this opportunity, and what will be required to be a successful applicant, read on.
The European Union has set a 90% emissions reduction target for 2040 and has opened the door to high-quality international carbon removal credits. For the Global South, which has already delivered 45% of all durable carbon removal globally, this is a defining moment. The question is whether that potential translates into recognised, regulated market access, or gets locked out of the frameworks that will shape climate finance for decades.
The Global South CDR Coalition exists to make sure it doesn't get locked out. Founded in January 2025 and based in Brussels, we are a non‑profit business association representing leading CDR credit producers across Latin America, Africa, and Asia, spanning biochar, enhanced rock weathering, and direct air capture. Our mission is to secure the inclusion of high‑integrity, Global South carbon removal in European regulated markets and policy frameworks.
The Role
The Executive Director will be the driving force behind the coalition's professionalisation and long‑term impact. The Executive Director will report to the Coalition’s advisory board, composed of member representatives, and will work with the board to define annual priorities, budget, advocacy positions, and membership strategy. This is a rare opportunity for someone who combines strategic thinking with a hands‑on attitude; someone equally comfortable developing a high‑level advocacy roadmap and drafting a position paper, attending a Commission roundtable, or managing membership administration.
The Executive Director will play a foundational role in building the coalition's internal capacity. A first associate hire is planned for the near term, and the Executive Director will be responsible for recruiting, onboarding, and managing this person. As the coalition grows, further team expansion may follow, and the Executive Director will help shape what that team looks like.
Key responsibilities
Strategy & Policy Engagement
Develop and refine the coalition's strategic priorities, identifying the most relevant and impactful European policy files for engagement
Lead advocacy efforts on key dossiers, with a current focus on the EU's 2040 climate targets and the inclusion of international carbon removal credits in that framework, as well as related files such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the European Emissions Trading System (ETS) revision.
Translate strategic goals into concrete campaigns and activities, including the development of position papers, consultations responses, and public communications
Represent the coalition in meetings with European policymakers, Commission officials, Members of the European Parliament, and other relevant stakeholders and opinion‑makers
Identify and attend relevant industry events, conferences, and policy forums
Stakeholder & Network Development
Build and maintain a high‑impact network of relationships with EU policymakers in Brussels and, where relevant, at the level of national governments
Develop relationships with allied and complementary organisations, including business associations, NGOs, research institutions, and other actors in the carbon removal and climate space
Manage the coalition's relationship with its Brussels‑based lobby agency and any other advisors or service providers engaged by the coalition
Membership & Fundraising
Serve as the primary point of contact and relationship manager for existing coalition members
Drive new member acquisition, identifying and engaging prospective members from the CDR producer community in the Global South
Lead fundraising efforts, including the management of member contributions and the identification of external funding opportunities from donors, foundations, or other patrons
Team Development
Lead the recruitment and onboarding of a first associate in the near term, providing day‑to‑day management and support for their professional development
As the coalition grows, contribute to defining the team structure and staffing needs that will enable the organisation to scale its impact
Foster a positive and productive working culture from the outset, even in a small team setting
Operations & Administration
A key objective in the first 6 months is the establishment of a legal entity for the Coalition.
Oversee the day‑to‑day operations of the coalition, ensuring smooth functioning of all activities
Support the advisory board in coordinating its work and preparing relevant materials
Handle administrative tasks as needed, with the pragmatism and flexibility that comes naturally in a small, dynamic organisation.
Your Profile
Required
At least 5 to 10 years of professional experience in public affairs, policy advocacy, or a closely related field
Strong knowledge of and genuine interest in climate, sustainability, and/or energy policy, ideally with exposure to European institutions and legislative processes
Demonstrated ability to develop and execute advocacy strategies, build relationships with policymakers, and communicate complex topics clearly and persuasively
Strategic thinker with the initiative and resourcefulness to work autonomously in a small organisation
Hands‑on attitude and willingness to take on both high‑level and operational tasks as needed
Fluent in English (written and spoken) — this is the coalition's primary working language
Based in Brussels or within 2 hours travelling distance from Brussels.
An asset
Knowledge of or prior experience in carbon removal, carbon markets, or carbon credits
Familiarity with relevant EU policy files (2040 climate targets, ETS, CBAM, carbon removals certification)
Proficiency in French, Portuguese and/or Spanish
Affinity with or background connected to the Global South — whether through nationality, prior working experience in Latin America, Africa, or Asia, or other personal or professional ties
What We Offer
For an estimated 60% employment (24 hours/week), we offer a total annual remuneration of €100,000, which – initially – is to be invoiced to the Coalition. Hence, we’re looking for candidates that are registered as independent consultant. Note that we foresee a transition from consultant to employee within 12 months.
A genuinely exciting opportunity to be the founding Executive Director of a coalition with significant growth potential
The chance to work at the intersection of global climate action and European climate policy; a space that is rapidly gaining in strategic importance
Flexibility on full‑time vs. part‑time arrangements, to be discussed with the successful candidate
A collaborative and committed membership community, and access to an established network of Brussels‑based policy and advocacy professionals.
The Global South CDR Coalition is committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation. xphnsxz We particularly welcome applications from women and from candidates with personal or professional connections to the Global South.
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