Policy Officer

ZSL is hiring a Policy Officer in the Philippines for the Blue Carbon Action Partnership (BCAP). The role involves conducting policy analysis, engaging stakeholders, and supporting blue carbon initiatives. Responsibilities include reviewing policies, coordinating with government and communities, and assisting in policy development. Candidates should have a relevant degree and 1-2 years of experience in policy analysis or environmental conservation.
Purpose of the role

Project Description

The Blue Carbon Action Partnership (BCAP) was launched at the Our Ocean Conference in March 2023 to scale blue carbon benefits through coordinated action to unlock finance, strengthen science and empower local communities. BCAP is supporting national governments in achieving their blue carbon ambitions and coordinating, communicating and connecting global stakeholders in blue carbon ecosystems at a global and national scale. The first National BCAP (NBCAP) is in the Philippines, following the establishment of a partnership with the Philippines at the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting in Davos in January 2023, reinforced at UNFCCC COP 28 in Dubai in December 2023. The NBCAP Secretariat is a local body that shares the goals of the NBCAP and can legally accommodate the NBCAP Secretariat. A local ZSL office will manage the NBCAP’s finances, enable local staff to be hired, and share responsibility for overseeing the delivery of the NBCAP in an unbiased manner. The NBCAP Secretariat should operate independently of ZSL.

Overview of the role: 

NBCAP is seeking a dedicated Policy Officer to support our efforts in shaping and advancing blue carbon policies at the national and international levels. The PolicyOfficer will play a crucial role in conducting policy analysis, providing strategic guidance, and engaging with stakeholders to promote sustainable blue carbon initiatives aligned with NBCAP's mission.

Key responsibilities:
• Policy Research and Support:
• Assist in reviewing and summarizing existing policies and regulations related to blue carbon ecosystems, climate mitigation, and coastal biodiversity.
• Help identify areas where current policy frameworks could be improved or expanded.
• Monitor developments in environmental policy and blue carbon science to support ongoing projects and strategic planning.
• Stakeholder Coordination:
• Support engagement activities with government bodies, non-profits, academic institutions, and local communities.
• Help prepare briefing materials, meeting notes, and presentation content for stakeholder discussions.
• Participate in policy workshops, webinars, and working groups as an observer or note-taker, contributing summaries and insights.
• Policy Development assistance:
• Contribute to drafting policy briefs, technical memos, and advocacy materials under the guidance of Project Manager.
• Help compile data and case studies to inform blue carbon management proposals.
• Provide technical support on environmental engineering topics such as coastal habitat restoration, carbon measurement approaches, or nature-based solutions.

About You
• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Policy, Public Policy, Political Science, or a related field.
• One to two (1-2) years of experience in policy analysis, advocacy, or related roles, preferably in the fields of environmental conservation, climate change, or sustainable development.
• Strong understanding of national and international policy processes, with knowledge of blue carbon science and policy issues highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information, conduct policy research, and communicate findings effectively to diverse audiences.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, as well as independently with minimal supervision.
• Knowledge of environmental conservation or related fields is a plus.
• Highly computer literate particularly in MS office packages (e.g., Word, Excel, Powerpoint, and MS Teams).
• Ability to synthesize and analyse high level discussions and distill possible contributions to policy
• Excellent written and spoken English and Tagalog.
• Desirable:
• Experience in projects funded by bilateral or multilateral donor organizations (e.g., USAID, EU, etc.) is an advantage.
• Knowledge of multi-stakeholder collaboration in conservation settings is desirable.
• Able to demonstrate high accuracy and attention to detail with reference to written communications, whether in the form of documentation or call logging.

We strongly encourage applications from all backgrounds and celebrate the value of having a team of employees with diverse skills, experiences, and heritage. We are committed to ensuring our teams can bring their authentic selves to work without fear of discrimination. ZSL has active equality networks for our staff with lived experience and those who provide active allyship in Race and Culture, Team Pride, Disability Network, and Menopause Network, complemented by our strategic EDI Steering Group. 

About Us

We’re ZSL, an international conservation charity. Through our unrivalled animal experts in our two zoos (London Zoo and Whipsnade Zoo), the work of our pioneering scientists, our dedicated conservationists, our purpose is to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wild animals going extinct. Our vision is a world where wildlife thrives and we’re working every day to achieve this. From investigating the health threats facing animals, to helping people and wildlife live alongside each other, we are committed to bringing wildlife back from the brink of extinction.

In 2010, the ZSL-Philippines Country Office was established as a duly accredited non-government organization registered under the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as a local branch of a foreign charitable institution registered in UK and holds its primary office in Iloilo City.

Project Staff Base

This post will be based in Ortigas, Metro Manila.

Vacant Position

1 Vacancy

What do we offer?

At ZSL, we are proud of our approach to employee benefits which include the following:
• Our vision and purpose - you’ll work alongside colleagues who are passionate about science-led conservation, knowing that you will help us to inspire, inform and empower people to stop wildlife going extinct.
• Holidays – 15 days paid annual leave during each 12-month period worked, plus national and public holidays as per the Labor Laws of the Philippines
• Sick Leave- ZSL Philippines showcases a 6 week generous leave compensation for each staff that ensures enough recovery for those who are with illness.
• 13th Month Pay
• Wellbeing – ZSL provides medical health insurance (HMO) for the staff and 3 of his/her dependents (spouse & children).
• International accident insurance coverage.
• Paid Maternity leave and paternity leave.
• Monthly communications allowance.
• Chance for travel to ZSL project sites across the country as well as to our international offices.
• Staff Emergency Loan Fund benefit after 6 months.

NB: We reserve the right to close our advertisement early or extend the advertising date until a suitable candidate has been found.