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The Rockefeller Foundation is seeking a seasoned leader to serve as Director, Advocacy and Strategic Communications, Energy—a pivotal role in advancing the Foundation’s bold ambition to drive an inclusive, global energy transition. Reporting to the Senior Vice President, Power, and functionally connected to the Vice President for Strategic Communications and Advocacy, this position is instrumental in shaping public narratives, informing policy, and mobilizing partnerships that will accelerate access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy for millions worldwide.
About the Role
The Foundation is working to unlock global energy abundance as a means to drive human opportunity. Central to this strategy is the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP)—a coalition-driven initiative launched in partnership with major philanthropic organizations, governments, the private sector, and civil society. While GEAPP remains a cornerstone of the Foundation’s energy strategy, the broader agenda also includes advancing high-impact innovations and demonstrating how energy solutions can transform human development.
The Director will lead strategic communications, policy advocacy, and coalition-building efforts across regions, particularly in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. This individual will craft and implement global strategies to promote the Foundation’s vision, elevate thought leadership, and increase visibility of its energy initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Influence:
Design and execute global strategies that drive policy action, build government support, engage the media, and stimulate investor interest across public, private, and philanthropic sectors. - Campaign Leadership:
Oversee the multi-year Mission 300 campaign, aimed at electrifying 300 million people in Africa by 2030. Ensure strategic alignment and effective collaboration with stakeholders. - Global Advocacy:
Promote a unifying vision of energy abundance by translating technical concepts into compelling narratives that resonate with diverse audiences, including policymakers and the general public. - Thought Leadership & Visibility:
Support the SVP and leadership team in building visibility as global advocates for clean energy and sustainable development. Represent the Foundation in high-level forums and strategic partnerships. - Coalition Building:
Establish and manage policy partnerships with governments, think tanks, and research institutions. Collaborate closely with GEAPP and its Global Leadership Council to advance collective action.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration:
Coordinate across internal teams such as Communications & Policy and Connected Leaders to amplify the Foundation’s energy solutions and influence initiatives.
Candidate Profile
Experience and Skills:
- Minimum 10 years in strategic communications and policy advocacy, ideally within energy, climate, or international development sectors.
- Demonstrated success in translating complex technical issues into actionable, public-facing strategies.
- Experienced in managing high-profile campaigns and working with senior leaders, media, and global stakeholders.
- Proficient in media relations, digital content strategy, and stakeholder engagement.
- Track record of navigating multi-sectoral environments, including government, philanthropy, and the private sector.
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public policy, international affairs, or a related field. An advanced degree is a plus.
Core Competencies:
- Ability to balance stakeholder interests in a complex environment.
- Talent development and team leadership.
- Strategic direction and problem-solving in high-pressure scenarios.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in messaging and engagement
About The Rockefeller Foundation
The Rockefeller Foundation is a trailblazer in global philanthropy, leveraging science, technology, and innovation to expand human opportunity and combat climate change. Its current strategic focus spans food, health, energy, and finance systems.
Employees benefit from a competitive compensation and benefits package including health coverage, generous paid leave, tuition support, 401(k) contributions, and more. The Foundation is committed to maintaining a values-driven workplace rooted in transparency, accountability, equity, and collaboration.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, The Rockefeller Foundation welcomes applicants of all backgrounds and complies with all applicable employment laws.
