Director, Global Climate and Development Institute

Job Description

About the Organization

Swaniti Initiative is a  fourteen-year-old social enterprise that is working at the intersection of climate, governance and last mile delivery. We believe that while the willingness and resources exist, there are fundamental gaps in the execution within communities that is the biggest crisis in the climate movement. Swaniti works with subnational governments to conduct microplanning exercises in consultation with communities and key stakeholders, provides technical assistance to subnational governments toward implementation and supports in monitoring and delivery of programs. A significant focus of our work within climate and governance is on preparing the private sector and communities for energy transition . Through the Climate & Sustainability vertical, we deliver research-backed solutions, policy guidance, and partnerships that drive energy transition, resilience, and sustained livelihoods across India and beyond.

Role Overview

We’re seeking a thought leader to set program strategy, anchor research excellence, and spearhead our fundraising and partnerships. This is a pivotal role to shape Swaniti’s climate narrative and impact.

Responsibilities

1. Research & Knowledge Leadership

Lead Swaniti’s research on critical themes : energy transition pathways, just transition, decarbonization of industries, climate finance, and social protection linkages

Ensure that all outputs—reports, briefs, toolkits—are rigorous, evidence-based, and accessible to policymakers.

Translate complex research into compelling narratives for funders, governments, and global forums.

Position Swaniti as a trusted thought leader through publications, conferences, and multi-stakeholder dialogues.

2. Strategy & Implementation

Shape and lead the strategic roadmap for Swaniti’s Climate & Sustainability programs.

Drive annual planning—goals, budgets, workplans, and performance frameworks.

Implement results-based management tools and accountability systems.

Provide governance and oversight across multiple ongoing projects, ensuring alignment with Swaniti’s mission and donor expectations.

Ensure cross-team collaboration with Swaniti’s Social Protection and Parliamentary Engagement verticals for integrated delivery.

3. Fundraising, Partnerships & Representation

Develop and manage a pipeline of philanthropies, international funders, and multilateral partners.

Lead large-scale proposal development and donor reporting.

Build strong donor relationships with regular reporting, updates, and engagement.

Represent Swaniti at high-profile forums (e.g., COP, conferences, donor roundtables.

Foster partnerships with civil society, research institutions, and private sector actors to amplify impact.

Please note : This is a full-time onsite opportunity; no remote work.

Requirements

Experience : 15+ years in climate policy, governance, or sustainable development, with at least 5 years in senior leadership.

Research Leadership : Strong record of publishing or overseeing impactful research and thought leadership.

Fundraising Skills : Demonstrated success in engaging donors and securing large-scale funding.

Networks : Ability to engage with policymakers, philanthropies, and global climate institutions.

Education : Master’s or higher in Public Policy, Climate / Environmental Studies, Development Economics, or related fields.

Mindset : Strategic thinker, excellent communicator, and bridge-builder between research and real-world impact

Benefits

Opportunity to shape climate narratives and governance reforms across India and the Global South.

A collaborative and purpose-driven environment that encourages innovation.

Exposure to state governments, global philanthropies, and international climate forums.

Competitive compensation and long-term growth opportunities.

Requirements

Demonstrated ability to work in teams. Critical thinking ability. Or Fellow - Ph.D. or Master in relevant fields with at least 3-5 years of experience. Ability to work well independently and collaboratively as needed. Must possess a self-starting and entrepreneurial outlook for leading research. Must be fluent in writing and speaking English, demonstrated through prior research reports or academic publications; knowledge of additional languages is an asset. Previous experience of working with the public sector companies (Preferred) Must have the skill of stakeholder management Previous experience of organizing the workshop / roundtable conference A passion for making a positive impact in the world. Skills and Attributes Required Experience in Business and Finance sector Ability to read and analyze corporate documents and annual reports Proficient in using quantitative skills with R or any other coding languages Ability to learn about the new sector and quickly adapt to changes Skilled in policy analysis Prior experience conducting literature reviews Excellent English writing skills.