ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability is seeking a seasoned professional to join its Circular Economy team as a Senior Expert. Beginning on 1 March 2026, this 24-month role, based in Brussels with the possibility of extension, offers a significant opportunity to shape sustainable urban development across Europe. Applications close on 31 December 2025. About ICLEI ICLEI is a global network of more than 2,500 local and regional governments dedicated to advancing sustainability. Active in over 125 countries, the organisation drives action for low-emission, nature-based, resilient, equitable and circular development. Its European Secretariat, headquartered in Freiburg with offices in Brussels and Berlin, comprises over 150 staff representing multiple professional backgrounds and nationalities. Working with ICLEI enables professionals to deepen their understanding of how cities design and implement sustainability strategies, explore urban challenges, engage with political and research leaders, and contribute to influential policy processes such as the EU Green Deal, the New European Bauhaus and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The organisation offers an internationally recognised, flexible and inclusive environment that supports collaboration, professional growth and intercultural exchange. Role Purpose The Senior Expert Circular Economy will provide strategic expertise, policy leadership and project management within ICLEI’s Circular Economy team. The role centres on supporting cities in applying circular economy principles and strengthening ICLEI’s influence in European policy debates. The Senior Expert will also lead project acquisition, coordinate advocacy activities, and represent ICLEI at high-level events, ensuring circular economy priorities are embedded across the organisation’s work. Key Responsibilities Policy and Advocacy Leadership The Senior Expert will coordinate ICLEI’s European policy and advocacy agenda for the circular economy. This includes developing position papers, policy briefs and recommendations, responding to EU consultations, and ensuring a coherent policy approach across ICLEI’s teams. The role involves cultivating strategic relationships with EU institutions, Brussels-based networks and other stakeholders shaping circular economy policies. Project Management The role carries responsibility for leading and managing European research and innovation projects. Key tasks include communication with funding bodies and partners, progress reporting, task coordination and administrative oversight. The Senior Expert will ensure projects apply circular economy principles effectively and deliver solutions that support local governments in advancing circular development. Project Acquisition and Development The Senior Expert will actively drive ICLEI’s project acquisition efforts. This entails identifying funding opportunities, conceptualising new project ideas, developing proposals, designing work plans and budgets, and contributing to the overall growth of the team’s portfolio. Strong writing, conceptual thinking and understanding of EU funding frameworks are essential. Representation and Networking As one of ICLEI’s key ambassadors in Brussels, the Senior Expert will represent the organisation at conferences, workshops, meetings and policy events. They may also be called upon to represent ICLEI in areas beyond circular economy when required. The role requires confidence working with diverse stakeholders, from grassroots organisations and municipalities to ministries and EU-level actors. Event Facilitation and Knowledge Production The Senior Expert will organise and facilitate virtual, hybrid and in-person events including capacity-building trainings, international project meetings and conferences. They will also draft publications targeted at urban practitioners, such as reports, case studies, news updates and guidance materials. Required Qualifications and Skills The ideal candidate will bring: At least six years of experience in project-based work, preferably with local governments or urban actors, including a minimum of four years in circular economy or closely related fields. Advanced understanding of circular economy principles, particularly their application at local government level. Strong project management skills, including oversight of work packages, partner coordination and reporting. Proven experience in project acquisition, proposal development and budgeting. Familiarity with the European policy landscape and advocacy processes relating to the circular economy. Excellent interpersonal, communication and conflict-resolution abilities, with a collaborative and proactive working style. Fluency in written and spoken English; additional languages are an advantage. Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and remain grounded in a dynamic international environment. Working Conditions The role offers: A 24-month contract with strong potential for extension. A gross annual salary ranging from EUR 67,400 to 70,000, aligned with ICLEI’s Senior Expert salary grid. A 40-hour work week with flexible arrangements and up to 50 percent mobile work. Six weeks of paid leave annually. Occasional international travel. A workplace committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. Applicants must hold EU citizenship or a valid EU residence permit and Belgian work permit. How to Apply Candidates are invited to submit a CV and motivation letter to jobs.europe@iclei.org by 31 December 2025. Early applications are encouraged due to rolling review. DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL ADVERT HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring company. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.