Policy Consultant: to Drive the Uptake of ResponsibleSteel Certification for Responsible Decarbonisation of Steel
Fixed-term
ResponsibleSteel
Brussels, Belgium
Position Overview:
We are seeking enthusiastic Contractual Consultant, based in Brussels or similarly effective location, to support our efforts during 2025 in promoting the transition to clean fuels within the steel sector. This 100-day contract for the consultant based in Brussels, spread over the course of six to ten months, will focus on collaborating with policymakers and industry stakeholders to develop actionable policy signals aligned with the ResponsibleSteel framework. This is one of two policy positions we are recruiting for (the other being in India) with the support of a grant from the We Mean Business Coalition.
About ResponsibleSteel:
ResponsibleSteel is a global multistakeholder standard and certification initiative for the steel industry. Its mission is to be a driving force in the socially and environmentally responsible production of net-zero steel, globally.
ResponsibleSteel’s members include some of the leading players in the industry working together to minimise the impact of steel manufacturing on people and the planet. Businesses from every part of the steel value chain, civil society groups, and other organisations are welcome to join.
ResponsibleSteel’s underlying purpose is to maximise steel’s contribution to a sustainable world by:
- Providing a multi-stakeholder forum to build trust and achieve consensus;
- Developing standards, certification and related tools;
- Driving positive change through the recognition and use of responsible steel.
The ResponsibleSteel International Production Standard is designed to support the responsible sourcing and production of steel. It covers a range of sustainability issues including emissions, pollution, responsible sourcing, human rights, labour standards, and more.
For more information about ResponsibleSteel please visit https://www.responsiblesteel.org/.
Key Responsibilities:
- Engagement with Stakeholders: Establish and nurture relationships with key policymakers, government and industry leaders, and community organizations to foster collaboration on clean fuel initiatives;
- Policy Analysis and Development: Review existing policies related to steel decarbonisation in both jurisdictions. Provide tailored recommendations that align with RS standards and promote policy alignment in clean fuel adoption in steel making with industry stakeholders;
- Framework Guidance: Develop an RS framework for market and trade policies and use its criteria to guide the development of effective policy tools for adopting clean fuel objectives in steel production evidenced by securing policy positions with government and industry;
- Facilitating Business Engagements: Organize direct engagements for businesses to connect with policymakers regarding fossil-to-clean policies, leveraging partnerships with RS and other stakeholders;
- Research and Position Papers: Conduct research on market trends and regulatory landscapes. Prepare a position paper at the end of the policy campaign detailing how the RS Standard can support responsible net-zero strategies in business and policy;
- Organizing Convenings: Plan workshops and convenings to bring stakeholders together, identify needs, explore barriers to fossil fuel phase-out in steel making, and find collaborative opportunities for policy interventions;
- Reporting: Prepare concise reports detailing findings, recommendations, and progress made during the consultancy period.
Project Goals:
- By the end of this 100 days engagement, aim to establish influential policy guidance in that supports the uptake of RS certified steel;
- Identify key barriers to fossil fuel phase-out in steel making and propose actionable solutions that enhance understanding among policymakers.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Qualifications:
- Education: Advanced degree in Public Policy, Environmental Science, Economics, or a related field;
- Experience: At least 5-10 years of experience in policy advocacy or stakeholder engagement within energy or manufacturing sectors, particularly related to clean technology or sustainability initiatives. Proven experience in engaging with EU institutions to advance policy related to decarbonization. Ideally having published policy papers preferably on topics related to industrial decarbonisation. The candidate is expected to have established relationships with policymakers within relevant European and UK directorates as well as other relevant stakeholders in the policymaking process and possess a deep understanding of the dynamics involved in achieving policy positions;
- Regional Expertise: Familiarity with regulatory environments in Europe (the EU and UK) concerning industrial and energy policies.
Skills:
- EU Policy: Possess deep understanding of the EU strategic, legislative and technical processes, including knowledge of appropriate frameworks (e.g. Green Deal Industrial Plan), directives (e.g. EU ETS), relevant directorates and its units, as well as current political developments, knowledge of EU Directives and Regulations, EU Green Deal, ETS schemes and Climate targets;
- Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze complex policy issues and develop strategic recommendations based on research findings;
- Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills; capable of conveying technical information clearly to a variety of audiences;
- Interpersonal Skills: Proven ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders, including government officials, industry representatives, and community organizations;
- Project Management: Experience managing short-term projects effectively while meeting deadlines.
Personal Attributes:
- Passion for Sustainability: A genuine commitment to advancing sustainability goals and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the steel sector;
- Cultural Competence: Ability to work effectively across diverse cultural contexts, particularly within EU and Indian environments;
- Proactive Mindset: A self-starter who actively seeks opportunities for engagement and collaboration.
Application Process:
To apply for this consultancy position, please submit a cover letter explaining your suitability for the role along with your resume. Your cover letter should highlight your relevant experience, skills, and passion for sustainability.
This short-term consultancy offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on policies that facilitate the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy solutions in steel production. If you are ready to contribute your expertise over this ten-month engagement spread throughout the year, we would love to hear from you!
Apply Now
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