Program Manager Next Generation

Overview

DO YOU WANT TO CONTRIBUTE TO BUILDING A BETTER WORLD?

The Holcim Foundation for Sustainable Construction empowers a unique global network of design and construction experts committed to sustainably transforming the building sector. As we embark on an exciting new chapter to accelerate the Foundation’s impact, we are seeking an experienced Program Manager to lead the Foundation’s Next Generation program and accelerate opportunities for young people to explore and innovate in sustainable construction.

This role is based in Zurich, Switzerland and will report to the Executive Director of the Foundation.

No agencies can be considered for this job posting, and no agency involvement is required unless contractually assigned.

Responsibilities

This is a specialised role for a built environment professional with experience in sustainable development and the construction sector. The main purpose of this role is to lead the Foundation’s support of students and young practitioners at the forefront of exploring new ideas to achieve sustainable construction, and to drive collaboration with the Foundation’s Partner universities.

Next Generation Accelerator

• Review and contribute ideas for the Foundation’s newly created Next Gen grants process
• Plan and deploy communications towards Next Gen audiences to promote the Next Gen grants
• Manage the Next Gen grants / scholarships: project evaluation, selection, payment, follow-up
• Define and coordinate impact measurement metrics for projects or initiatives receiving Next Gen grants
• Review impact metrics of first cycle of Next Gen grants and suggest improvements where necessary
• Coordinate announcements of Next Gen projects/initiatives and develop follow-up plans with project owners
• Identify new candidates for the Foundation’s Next Gen Accelerator network and coordinate the timely renewal/succession of the Next Gen Ambassadors as required
• Contribute to timely and technically sound communications and publications on Next Gen projects/initiatives

Academic network and student outreach

• Build trusting relationships with the Foundation’s Partner University representatives and broader network of academic experts to foster deep collaboration on best practice thinking
• Research and build new relationships with academic experts to enrich the Foundation’s technical content
• Research, define and propose collaborative outreach initiatives with the Foundation’s academic network to improve visibility of best practice in sustainable construction
• Review best practice material currently available on the Foundation’s digital knowledge hub; suggest, coordinate and champion new formats to support staff and students in higher education
• Co-edit and monitor technical/scientific content of all Foundation communications and publications
• Contribute technical content for all outreach activities (events, media relations, etc.)
• Collaborate with Foundation staff to develop new strategies to promote sustainable construction

Education/Qualifications

• Academic degree (Master or higher) in architecture, urban planning or civil engineering

Experience

• A track record of advocating for sustainability in the built environment
• Experience working with academic institutions at an international level is preferred
• Knowledge of scholarship application processes and experience in proposal writing and grant acquisition is a plus

Knowledge & Skills

• In-depth and current knowledge of sustainable development and construction (theory and practice)
• Advanced research skills, awareness of emerging issues for professionals in design and construction
• Open-minded and inclusive team player
• Able to decide, act and lead independently
• Effective written and oral communication, both one-on-one and group presentations
• Expertise in both quantitative and qualitative evaluation methods
• Strong stakeholder focus and service-oriented attitude
• Able to flexibly adapt to changing environments
• Able to work under pressure, multi-task, take on responsibilities, and deliver on time
• Willingness and capacity to travel and work abroad for short periods of time
• Excellent knowledge of MS Office and Google Suite

Language Requirements

High proficiency in English (oral and written) – mother-tongue or equivalent. Every additional language is a plus, in particular Spanish.

Local / International

Local Employment

Travel Requirements

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