Application Guide

How to Apply for Programme Manager, Europe (AI Climate Governance)

at Climate Catalyst

🏢 About Climate Catalyst

Climate Catalyst is a strategic non-profit that accelerates climate action by building diverse coalitions and co-creating policy strategies across Europe, India, and Indonesia. Their focus on heavy-emitting industries and collaborative, non-partisan approach offers a unique opportunity to influence systemic change at the national and regional levels.

About This Role

As Programme Manager for the new AI & Climate Governance programme, you will lead the strategic development and execution of initiatives that address the intersection of AI and climate policy. This role is pivotal in shaping governance frameworks to ensure AI contributes positively to climate action, making it a high-impact opportunity for someone passionate about technology and sustainability.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve virtual meetings with partners across Europe to align on advocacy strategies, followed by drafting policy briefs or coordinating with researchers on AI governance frameworks. You'll also spend time monitoring policy developments, preparing for workshops or webinars, and managing project timelines and budgets to ensure milestones are met.

🎯 Who Climate Catalyst Is Looking For

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📝 Tips for Applying to Climate Catalyst

1

Tailor your CV to highlight specific achievements in managing multi-stakeholder projects, especially those involving policy advocacy or coalition building.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your experience with AI and climate policy, and demonstrate your understanding of Climate Catalyst's approach to strategic convening.

3

Research the current European AI regulations and climate policy landscape to show you're well-informed about the context this role operates in.

4

Highlight any experience you have with remote work and across different time zones, as the role is remote with a preferred European timezone.

5

Since the role is a 12-month contract with possible extension, express enthusiasm for the project-based nature and your ability to deliver within a set timeframe.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

- Emphasize your specific interest in the intersection of AI and climate governance, and why this is a critical area for policy intervention. - Showcase your experience in programme management, particularly in designing and delivering projects that involve diverse stakeholders. - Demonstrate your understanding of Climate Catalyst's mission and how your skills can contribute to their new AI & Climate Governance programme. - Mention your ability to work autonomously and collaboratively in a remote setting, and your flexibility to align with CET +/-2 timezone.

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Review Climate Catalyst's current projects and publications to understand their strategic priorities and communication style.
  • Look into the latest European Union initiatives on AI regulation (e.g., AI Act) and climate policies (e.g., European Green Deal) to see how they intersect.
  • Explore the work of other organizations in the AI and climate space to identify potential partners or competitors.
  • Check the team page on Climate Catalyst's website to understand the culture and who you'd be working with.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you approach building a coalition of stakeholders to advance AI climate governance policies in Europe?
2 What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities at the intersection of AI and climate policy?
3 Describe a time you managed a complex programme with multiple partners; how did you ensure alignment and progress?
4 How do you stay informed about rapidly evolving AI technologies and their policy implications?
5 How would you measure the success of a programme like this, and what outcomes would you prioritize?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application that does not specifically address the AI and climate governance focus of this role.
  • Overlooking the contract nature and duration; avoid appearing to seek a permanent position without flexibility.
  • Failing to demonstrate understanding of the non-profit, coalition-building approach of Climate Catalyst, which is central to their work.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Climate Catalyst!