Senior Officer, Urban Research, Innovation, and Development

ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability is a global network of more than 2,500 local and regional governments committed to sustainable urban development. We work in a multicultural, international environment with colleagues and partners around the globe.

The role: The successful candidate will be a part of the international ICLEI World Secretariat team based in Bonn, Germany, and will be placed within the Urban Research, Innovation, and Development Team. The role involves leading the coordination of the EU Horizon-funded “RethinkAction” project, implemented across six European regions, and leading the technical research and innovation deliverables for the Kaohsiung-ICLEI Climate Neutral and Smart Cities Community of Practice.

Job requirements: Minimum 5 years (preferably 8+) of relevant professional experience in urban planning, digital urban development, digital finance, stakeholder engagement, or related fields, including at least 2 years in project coordination/management and proposal writing. University degree in urban related studies, digitalization and finance, or climate innovation, or a related interdisciplinary field. Proven track record in academic writing and peer-reviewed publications. Proven track record in coordinating complex international projects. Demonstrated expertise in urban governance, and the role of digital tools and finance in enabling sustainable urban transitions.

Benefits: The position is available from 1 June 2025 at the ICLEI World Secretariat in Bonn, Germany. The contract will have a limited duration for 1 year, with possibility of extension. Working hours: 40 per week, 30 days of paid leave per year. Working language: English. International travel may be required; communication with partners around the world may require work outside of normal office hours.

Applications details: Please send your application by email to careers (dot) bonn (at) iclei (dot) org, with the subject line: “Senior Officer, Urban Research, Innovation, and Development.” Your application should include a letter of motivation, your most recent CV, and any relevant certificates or supporting documents — all combined into a single PDF file (maximum size: 5MB). Your earliest possible start date. An indication of your citizenship and whether you hold a valid work permit for Germany.