Programme Lead – Sustainable Food Systems (Political Economy)
Council on Energy, Environment and Water
Posted
Jan 29, 2026
Location
India
Type
Full-time
Mission
What you will drive
Core responsibilities:
- Develop an overall strategy for the Sustainable Food Systems programme by building on existing in-house thinking, assessment of other institutions' work, skillset niche, evolving sectoral narrative, and emerging government priorities
- Lead research in the programme area as a principal investigator, guide and provide relevant inputs to research, and develop methodologies and frameworks
- Build and lead a team, take end-to-end ownership of the programme, ideate new research concepts, develop project proposals and budgets, and secure resources for expanding the work programme
- Lead strategic outreach of the programme, build relationships with donors and partners, and ensure implementation of developed strategic outreach plans
Impact
The difference you'll make
This role creates positive change by transitioning India's agricultural sector to a more sustainable paradigm that prioritizes crop diversification and agroecology, addressing nutritional security amidst climate change while disrupting existing power dynamics that sustain unsustainable practices.
Profile
What makes you a great fit
Required qualifications:
- PhD or Master's degree in development studies, sociology, critical agrarian studies, political economy, public policy, anthropology or a related interdisciplinary field
- 8+ years of relevant experience in this domain and sector, with experience working with government agencies, civil society organizations, corporations, or international development institutions
- Strong foundation in qualitative research methods and social science theories, with preference for experience in designing and executing primary surveys and analyzing survey responses using statistical and econometric approaches
- Strong track record of team management and project management, experience in dealing with public and private institutions, and demonstrated thought leadership in relevant areas
Benefits
What's in it for you
Benefits and culture highlights:
- Above-market remuneration
- Strong visionary leadership with emphasis on research and impact at scale
- Active promotion of leadership by initiative
- Celebration of talent and ambition
- Surrounded by smart people who challenge and help you grow
- Faster learning than peers in other organizations
- Safe space for all