Energy Director – Africa Program

About the role

The Energy Director will lead WRI’s Africa Energy Program, shaping strategy and overseeing implementation across Kenya, Ethiopia and Rwanda. Reporting to the Deputy Director of WRI Africa, the role combines research leadership, donor engagement and cross‑regional coordination to accelerate clean‑energy transitions on the continent.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and continuously refine the Africa Energy program strategy, defining vision, priorities and measurable outcomes.
• Oversee program implementation, ensuring delivery of research, digital platforms, geospatial intelligence and analytical products.
• Manage a multidisciplinary team of program managers, researchers, M&E experts, operations and communications staff.
• Track performance indicators, monitor progress and report results to senior leadership and donors.
• Lead donor engagement, fundraising and partnership development for the program.
• Collaborate closely with the WRI Polsky Energy Center and external stakeholders including policymakers, finance institutions and civil‑society groups.
• Serve as the primary WRI expert on African energy systems, influencing policy and industry through evidence‑based insights.

Required profile

• Proven senior‑level experience leading energy or climate programs in Africa.
• Strong understanding of clean‑energy transitions, energy access and equitable development.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multidisciplinary teams and complex projects.
• Experience in donor relations, fundraising and partnership building.
• Excellent communication skills for engaging policymakers, academia and the private sector.

Required skills

• Experience with the Energy Access Explorer (EAE) platform.
• Familiarity with open‑source energy planning tools.
• Proficiency in geospatial intelligence and data visualization.