Consultant – BEPA R&I Policy Officer

Experience: 3-5 years

Hours: Full time

Starting date: As soon as possible

About CLERENS:

CLERENS is a leading public affairs and communications consultancy based in Brussels, specialised in advocacy, political and regulatory risk assessment, public funding, and strategic communications. The vision of CLERENS is that everyone should be in a position to meaningfully engage with European policy makers, especially on such an important topic as the energy transition. CLERENS consultants have an in-depth expertise in energy, environment, climate, and mobility.

Position Summary:

The R&I Policy Officer will support CLERENS in their work for the Batteries European Partnership Association (BEPA). BEPA represents the battery innovation community in Brussels, representing both industry and research members. BEPA is the private partner in the Horizon Europe Batt4EU Partnership with the European Commission.

In close cooperation with the Secretary General and other BEPA team members, the consultant will help BEPA transition from the current Horizon Europe framework to the new R&I ecosystem that will come with the new EU budget. The R&I Policy Officer will bring strong technical expertise in batteries to support multiple BEPA Technical Working Groups and/or Task Forces. These working groups range in size from 50 to almost 200 battery experts and prepare the official inputs given by BEPA to the European Commission on the strategic direction of battery research within the Horizon Europe Programme and beyond.

Main Duties:

• You lead the operational management of BEPA Working Groups and Task Forces, working alongside chairs and co-chairs to ensure outputs are delivered on time. You own the agenda, drive discussions, present updates, and coordinate the dissemination of information.
• Support, together with the Secretary General and Executive Director, the monthly meetings of the Executive Board meetings, by preparing and following up on the strategic decisions taken;
• Contribute, in terms of content and organisation, to BEPA events, like the General Assembly and the Battery Innovation Days, and smaller events like technical workshops and matchmaking events;
• Actively engage with the BEPA members. Follow up on enquiries by current members, engage with prospective members by conducting proactive outreach activities and welcoming new members into the organisation;
• Support the BEPA Communication Officer by providing content for BEPA publications (e.g. newsletter, website, social media, etc.);

Requirements and Competencies:

• University or advanced degree in battery or electrochemical engineering, electrochemistry, (battery) materials science, or a closely related technical field.
• In-depth technical knowledge of the battery sector: battery science, cell chemistry, materials, manufacturing, and system integration, combined with a solid understanding of the industry landscape, markets, value chains, and key players.
• Between 3–5 years of relevant experience in battery or energy-related R&I, whether in industry, a research institution, or a European association; experience with EU-funded innovation projects is an asset.
• Good knowledge of the workings of the European Union, in particular in the sphere of research and innovation (Horizon Europe); previous experience engaging with EU institutions or R&I policy is an asset.
• Ability to quickly grasp new topics and process information effectively, and to put thoughts into actions quickly.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with attention to detail.
• Capacity to collect, organise and analyse quantitative and qualitative data.
• Ability to plan and work independently, manage stress, multiple deadlines and effectively prioritise workload.
• Fluency in English is necessary; any additional European language is an asset.
• Proficiency in MS Office applications is a must; acquaintance with other software is a strong advantage.

We Offer:

• The opportunity to work for a great European initiative concretely supporting the clean energy transition.
• A challenging, multi-faceted role in a dynamic international team with room to grow and take on additional responsibilities.
• A remuneration package suited to your experience;

Be aware that applications are reviewed continuously upon arrival. Therefore, application as soon as possible is advisable.