The European Climate Foundation (ECF) is seeking an Associate for its Spain Programme on a temporary replacement basis in Madrid. The role is a fully integrated, cross-cutting position working across climate policy, political analysis, strategic communications, stakeholder engagement and grantmaking. Applications close on 18 November 2026 at 17:00 CEST.
About the European Climate Foundation
The European Climate Foundation (ECF) is a major philanthropic initiative working to help tackle the climate crisis by fostering the transition to a net-zero emissions society at national, European and global levels. ECF supports a broad network of partner organisations working to advance ambitious climate and energy policies.
About the Spain Programme
The ECF Spain Programme aims to advance policies and societal changes that accelerate decarbonisation while strengthening political support for climate action in Spain. The programme works with a diverse ecosystem of civil society organisations, think tanks, researchers, communications practitioners, public institutions, businesses and philanthropic actors.
About the Role
This is a highly cross-cutting role for someone who is intellectually curious, politically aware and comfortable working across different topics and disciplines. The Associate will support the development and implementation of strategic initiatives across the programme. The role reports to the Politics and Citizen Engagement Programme Manager.
Contract Details
This is a full-time temporary replacement position governed by Spanish employment law (contrato de sustitución). The contract will end when the absent colleague returns. The duration cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Implementation
🗺️ Support the development and implementation of the Spain Programme's strategies across policy, politics and society | 🔎 Help identify opportunities, barriers and emerging trends | 📊 Contribute to the design, monitoring and adaptation of programme workstreams
Analysis and Strategic Intelligence
📰 Monitor political, policy and societal developments relevant to climate action | 🧪 Conduct analysis of stakeholders, narratives, public debate and policy developments | 📝 Prepare strategic briefings, recommendations and assessments
Network Development and Partnerships
🤝 Build and maintain relationships with civil society organisations, think tanks, academics, policymakers, business representatives and philanthropic partners | 🏛️ Represent the Spain Programme in meetings, workshops and external forums
Strategic Grantmaking
🔍 Help identify and assess potential partners and funding opportunities | 📋 Support the design of grantmaking strategies and portfolios | ✅ Review proposals, assess opportunities and risks | 📈 Support grant administration, budget follow-up and monitoring
Cross-Programme Collaboration
🌐 Work closely with colleagues across ECF programmes | 🌱 Contribute to connecting sectoral climate work with wider political, societal and economic dynamics
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Essential Requirements
🌿 Demonstrated interest in climate action and ECF's mission | ⚡ Familiarity with climate and energy issues | 🏆 2–5 years of relevant professional experience in public policy, advocacy, political analysis, strategic communications, philanthropy, civil society, research, public affairs or related fields | 🧠 Strong analytical skills | 🇪🇸 Good understanding of Spanish political, policy and societal dynamics | 🤝 Experience supporting projects involving multiple stakeholders | 🗣️ Proficient command of Spanish and English
Desirable Experience
📚 Experience in think tanks, policy institutes, government or advocacy organisations | 💼 Experience working with grantmaking or philanthropic organisations | 🗺️ Existing networks relevant to climate, policy or public-interest work in Spain
What ECF Offers
🌟 Dynamic, international team passionate about climate impact | 🏢 Flexible work environment | 📄 Full-time replacement contract (contrato de sustitución) under Spanish employment law
Location and Work Pattern
📍 Madrid, Spain, with some travel within Europe required | 🏠 Hybrid working pattern with approximately 3 days per week in the office in central Madrid
Work Authorisation
Candidates must be legally authorised to work in Spain for the duration of the contract. The application form specifically asks whether you hold this authorisation.
How to Apply
Upload your CV and motivation letter as one combined document via the application form below. The form also asks for your salary expectation (annual gross), your fluency in English and Spanish at business level, and whether you are currently based in Spain.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
No. This is a temporary replacement contract (contrato de sustitución under Spanish employment law). The contract ends when the absent colleague returns. The duration cannot be guaranteed in advance.
What languages are required?
A proficient command of both Spanish and English is essential.
How much experience is required?
2–5 years of relevant professional experience in public policy, advocacy, political analysis, strategic communications, philanthropy, civil society, research, public affairs or related fields is required.
Must I be based in Spain?
The role requires working approximately 3 days per week in the Madrid office, so practical proximity to Madrid is important.
Deadline
⏳ 18 November 2026 (17:00 CEST)
