Waste-to-Energy & Circular Economy Policy (1–3 years)
Location: Brussels
Contract: Full-time
Experience required: 1–3 years
Start date: To be agreed
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.
CLERENS consultants have in-depth expertise in energy, environment, climate, and mobility. We empower associations to deliver maximum value to their members. Whether guiding leadership, supporting secretariats, or managing day-to-day operations, we ensure members’ priorities are advanced, their voice is amplified, and their community thrives.
About the Role
The Consultant will support ESWET – The European Suppliers of Waste-to-Energy Technology (i.e., the client) in its policy and advocacy activities at EU level, with a strong focus on Waste-to-Energy (WtE), waste management, material recovery, and circular economy policies. The role combines policy monitoring and analysis, stakeholder coordination, content drafting, and working group management, in close collaboration with the wider team.
Key Responsibilities Include
Policy monitoring and analysis
- Conduct research on relevant Waste-to-Energy, waste management, and material recovery policy issues.
- Monitor, analyse, and report on EU legislative and regulatory developments impacting the WtE sector.
- Closely follow key European legislative files, including but not limited to:
- Circular Economy Act
- Waste Framework Directive
- Critical Raw Materials Act
- Net-Zero Industry Act
- Bioeconomy Strategy
- Advanced Materials Act
- Environmental Omnibus
- RESourceEU Action Plan
- Assess implications for ESWET members and prepare clear policy analyses and briefings.
Advocacy and communications
- Draft policy briefings, position papers, press releases, and responses to European Commission consultations.
- Prepare reports, factsheets, infographics, and articles highlighting the role and benefits of the Waste-to-Energy sector.
- Write policy-focused content for internal and external newsletters.
- Contribute to advocacy messaging in coordination with the team.
- Represent the association in events and meetings with policymakers and/or stakeholders.
Meetings, governance, and coordination
- Contribute to the drafting and presentation of slides for ESWET’s General Assembly and Technical Committee.
- Support the preparation of meetings, presentations, and background documents.
- Manage the Working Group on Material Recovery and the Heat Task Force, including:
- Organising meetings and coordinating logistics;
- Identifying and contacting potential guest speakers;
- Preparing agendas, background notes, and minutes;
- Moderating meetings and presenting policy updates, key findings, and recommendations to members.
Profile and Skills
- 1–3 years of professional experience in EU policy, public affairs, consultancy, or an association environment.
- Strong interest in EU environmental, energy, and circular economy policies; prior exposure to waste or resource policy is an asset.
- Good understanding of EU institutions and legislative processes.
- Excellent research, analytical, and drafting skills.
- Ability to communicate complex policy issues clearly and concisely.
- Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Confident working in an international, member-driven environment.
- Fluency in English; additional EU languages are an asset.
What We Offer
- Hands-on involvement in EU policy and advocacy on key Green Deal and circular economy files.
- Direct interaction with industry experts, policymakers, and European stakeholders.
- A dynamic, international working environment with opportunities for professional growth.
Please send your CV and motivation letter by email, indicating “Consultant” in the subject line, to Mr Thomas Otuszewski at jobs@clerens.eu. Applications received after the
deadline will not be considered.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged. Due to the expected high number of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.