Advisor - Energy Policy / International Affairs

Position: Strategic Advisor – Energy Diplomacy & Policy Affairs Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates Relocation Support: Available Function: Energy Policy, Diplomacy, Strategic Affairs Employment Type: Full-time, Senior Advisory Role Travel: Frequent international and regional travel expectedRole Summary A senior-level strategic advisory role supporting top-tier national leadership in advancing the country’s global energy and sustainability agenda. This position demands deep expertise in energy policy, diplomacy, and geopolitical strategy — and requires the ability to operate at the intersection of international relations, energy transition, and political influence. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s voice across multilateral platforms, building bilateral and regional alliances, and offering forward-looking strategic counsel on global energy trends and risks. Key Responsibilities International Energy Strategy & Diplomacy Advise national leadership on regional and global energy policy developments, with a strong focus on alignment with long-term national sustainability, energy transition, and investment objectives. Lead engagement strategy for major global energy dialogues and summits (e.g., OPEC+ platforms, G20 Energy tracks, sustainability summits). Prepare high-impact policy papers, talking points, negotiation strategies, and briefing materials for senior-level diplomatic and governmental engagements. Multilateral Relations & Political Positioning Represent national interests (or support senior representation) in high-level forums such as IEA, IRENA, World Energy Council, and international financial institutions. Coordinate with international stakeholders — governments, multilateral organizations, think tanks — to harmonize positioning and shape global narratives. Cultivate alliances with strategic partner nations to support the country’s leadership in emerging energy technologies (e.g., hydrogen, CCUS, renewables). Strategic Intelligence & Scenario Planning • Analyze global energy trends across oil, gas, nuclear, renewables, and hydrogen; assess implications for national energy security and economic policy. • Develop risk frameworks to anticipate the impact of geopolitical shifts and regulatory developments on national energy objectives. • Lead or contribute to scenario-building exercises to inform strategic decisions and long-term planning. Institutional Coordination & Legacy Building • Ensure cross-agency alignment between national entities (e.g., energy, infrastructure, investment, and foreign affairs bodies). • Facilitate continuity in long-term energy diplomacy efforts — including knowledge transfer, documentation, and strategic archives of national initiatives. • Mentor junior policy staff and contribute to building a durable institutional memory around strategic energy projects and multilateral leadership efforts. Requirements Required Qualifications & Experience • 15–20 years of relevant experience in energy diplomacy, strategic policy, or multilateral affairs. • Proven track record in high-level advisory roles involving international energy negotiations or government relations. • Deep understanding of geopolitical energy dynamics and the global energy transition (hydrogen, CCUS, renewables, energy security). • Experience in multilateral institutions, diplomatic missions, international think tanks, or government ministries (energy, foreign affairs, climate). • Master’s degree required in one of the following: International Relations, Energy Policy/Economics, Public Policy, Political Science, or International Law. A Ph.D. is highly desirable. • Native-level English required; other languages (Arabic, French, Mandarin) are a plus. Success Profile • Strategist with strong political instinct and an ability to see around corners • Experienced negotiator who understands how to manage perceptions, build coalitions, and drive consensus • Thought leader who can distil complex energy issues into clear, actionable strategies • Discreet, trusted, and capable of engaging comfortably with senior leadership