Program Manager, US

ABOUT SEQUOIA CLIMATE FOUNDATION

Sequoia Climate Foundation is a climate philanthropy that believes in a world powered by clean energy, where all people are protected by policies that have averted the worst effects of climate change. We support bold strategies and efforts that will have both near-term impact and the greatest probability of long-term success. We believe that solving climate change requires the adoption of ambitious, evidence-based policy solutions that transform markets, advance clean technology, and lead to large‐scale change.

JOB SUMMARY

The Program Manager will report to and work closely with the US Program Director and Sequoia Climate Foundation leadership to both develop and execute grantmaking strategies and plans aligned with the organizational mission and vision. They will develop, support, and execute strategies as needed, compile the research and evidence necessary to assess their potential impact and chances for success and identify the organizations best positioned to execute them. In addition, they will manage grantmaking portfolios and productive relationships with grantees, communicating openly and engaging directly with them. They will support in leading a team and work with peer networks, government officials, thought leaders, and key stakeholders to assess emerging needs, gaps, and opportunities in the field.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS & KEY OUTCOMES

• Advance strategy execution, including conducting research and analysis on climate sector trends, developing coherent theories of change and theories of action, and identifying, screening, and supporting grantee partners in developing robust projects aligned with the theory of action. Write investment recommendations articulating the rationale for funding a cohort of projects and partners and present them to the Program Directors and Executive Team.
• Consistent with Sequoia’s “learning and evidence approach,” keep in regular contact with funded partners, including through site visits, and support execution consistent with goals in mind, supporting adaptive management by partners as needed.
• Work with the Program Directors to undertake or commission sector-relevant research and analysis to inform the effective development, delivery, and evaluation of programs and initiatives.
• Engage peer networks, funders, government officials, opinion formers within the climate change and sector-specific community, and other stakeholders to help develop strategies and identify organizations best positioned to execute those strategies.
• Identify appropriate partners and collaborations to advance grant-making strategies, including, as appropriate, active participation in collaboratives, conferences, and workshops.
• Monitor developments in the field to identify emerging needs, gaps, and opportunities for driving ambitious climate action.
• Works with the Evidence and Learning team to build and implement robust evidence and learning agenda in our grantmaking.
• Ensures adherence to internal grantmaking processes via appropriate documentation, grant budgeting, and reporting.
• Represents Sequoia Climate Foundation at conferences and meetings with NGOs, funders, experts, and consultants, ensuring follow-up as needed.
• Leads project and program management and handles simultaneous deadlines and assigned work.
• Works integrally with staff in accomplishing tasks and managing junior staff as needed.
• Performs other duties as required.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE & CREDENTIALS

• Bachelor’s degree required; Advanced degree preferred.
• A minimum of eight years of professional experience working in climate change or energy policy.
• Strong quantitative skills are preferred.
• Experience working in government, non-profit or philanthropic organizations is preferred.

COMPETENCIES

• Integrity : Commitment to Sequoia Climate Foundation’s mission and values.
• Inspirational Leadership : Demonstrated values-based, results-driven leadership.
• Collegiality : Strong work ethic and experience working collaboratively with a team.
• Efficiency / Initiative : Ability to learn quickly, juggle multiple tasks, prioritize effectively and meet deadlines.
• Quality / Compliance : Attention to detail and timelines.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This is largely a sedentary position that requires the ability to speak, hear, see, and lift small objects up to 15 lbs. Requires the ability to periodically travel locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally.