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- Tasks: Lead and support technical work on fossil fuel subsidy reform and public finance tracking.
- Company: Join IISD, a global think tank dedicated to sustainable development and climate solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work flexibility and the chance to make a real impact on global sustainability.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team driving meaningful change for people and the planet.
- Qualifications: Requires 10+ years in public finance or related fields and a graduate degree.
- Other info: This is a consultancy role with a 12-month contract, fully remote options available.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 ÂŁ per year.
Senior Consultant, Subsidy Methodologies
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Senior Consultant, Subsidy Methodologies
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The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD) is an award-winning independent think tank working to accelerate solutions for a stable climate, sustainable resource management, and fair economies. Our work inspires better decisions and sparks meaningful action to help people and the planet thrive. We shine a light on what can be achieved when governments, businesses, non-profits, and communities come together. IISD’s staff of more than 300 experts come from across the globe and from many disciplines. With offices in Winnipeg, Geneva, Ottawa, and Toronto, our work affects lives in nearly 100 countries.
Established in 2005, IISD’s Global Subsidies Initiative (GSI) works with governments, international institutions, and civil society to reform subsidies and align public financial flows with sustainable development and climate goals. Our team leads cutting-edge work on fossil fuel and other environmentally harmful subsidies, public finance, and energy taxation—offering policy-relevant insights grounded in both global best practices and national realities.
We are currently seeking a Senior Consultant, Subsidy Methodologies to lead and support our technical work on fossil fuel-related subsidy reform (potentially other sectors as needed) and public finance tracking. This role is ideal for someone who has a firm grasp of technical analysis and economic logic, while understanding the relevance of bigger picture considerations such as policy relevance, equity, and real-world outcomes.
Who We’re Looking For
This role is for someone who:
- Has deep expertise in public finance, taxation, subsidy analysis and innovative methodological approaches.
- Is numerate and enjoys quantitative and qualitative research and methodological rigor
- Can confidently challenge weak assumptions, develop new methods for quantifying subsidies and other forms of public financial support using Excel or similar tools, and design practical financial solutions (i.e. alternatives to harmful subsidies) that serve sound fiscal policies, sustainability, and equitable development.
- Works fast and smart: is adept at refining writing and logic, providing constructive feedback to teammates, perfecting drafts provided by others, and ensuring polished finished products.
- Thinks clearly, writes persuasively and explains complex technical issues across diverse audiences.
- Is ready to coach junior colleagues.
- Thrives independently: drives forward workstreams with limited oversight, collaborates well but doesn’t wait for instruction.
A robust sense of logic, curiosity, and intellectual courage is essential. As is the ability to respectfully but firmly advocate for different approaches to be applied to diverse economic and political contexts.
Key Responsibilities
Research and Methodology
- Lead the development and refinement of methodologies for tracking and evaluating subsidies and public financial flows—especially fossil fuel and other environmentally harmful subsidies.
- Critically review existing frameworks for subsidy tracking (e.g., WTO, IMF, OECD) and propose methodological improvements to better reflect economic realities and policy priorities in emerging economies.
- Analyse tax expenditures, price-gap estimates, direct transfers, state-owned enterprise behaviour, public lending, and related flows.
- Contribute to high-quality technical reports and policy briefs that translate complex findings into accessible, impactful messages.
Coaching and Quality Assurance
- Work independently to manage your own deliverables while coordinating closely with IISD’s wider team.
- Review and improve draft outputs from staff and other consultants—sharpening logic, methodological rigor, structure, actionability of recommendations, and messaging.
- Guide less experienced researchers on good analytical practice, writing discipline, and consistent methodological approaches.
- Uphold a high standard of clarity and rigour across all GSI outputs.
Strategic Outreach and Audience Adaptation
- Adapt research for different policy audiences, from finance ministries to campaign groups and multilateral organisations.
- Engage constructively with technical reviewers, partners, and critics—defending ideas where appropriate and adjusting own approach when needed.
Qualifications And Experience
- At least 10 years of experience in public finance, energy taxation, economics, or a related field.
- Graduate degree (MA, MSc, or PhD) in one of the above-mentioned fields
- Deep understanding of subsidy identification, public financial flows, effective carbon pricing, and tax policy—including practical experience applying or adapting methodologies. Experience working with other sectors that benefit from environmentally harmful subsidies (agriculture, fisheries, forestry, mining, water) a strong asset.
- Experience producing research outputs for policy and practitioner audiences (e.g. ministries of finance, G20, IMF, World Bank).
- Proven ability to review, revise, and elevate complex analytical and written materials.
- Confident in navigating imperfect data and balancing rigour with policy relevance. Proficiency with PowerBI and other data applications an asset.
- Strong written and spoken English essential;
- Experience in coaching, mentoring, or team capacity-building an asset.
- Independent, self-starting, and solutions-focused.
- Comfortable working remotely and across time zones.
- Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
- Confident, clear and calm communicator—especially when defending or adapting technical positions.
- Results-oriented, with strong time and task management.
- Commitment to sustainability, fiscal justice, and equity.
- Type: Consultancy (retainer), 12-month duration with minimum of 50 days
- Compensation: Commensurate with experience and qualifications
- Location: Remote
- Start Date: As soon as feasible
Location:Fully remote and home-based in Brussels, Paris, Rio de Janeiro or Winnipeg.
Duration: 12-month contract (retainer of a minimum 50 days per year), with possibility of renewal
Application Deadline: 1 Sept 2025
Application Process
This is a consulting position. Submissions must be in English.
Candidates must hold appropriate work authorization for locations where they expect to be based.
Only those candidates we wish to interview will be contacted.
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Senior Consultant, Subsidy Methodologies employer: International Institute for Sustainable Development
Contact Detail:
International Institute for Sustainable Development Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Consultant, Subsidy Methodologies
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and methodologies in subsidy analysis and public finance. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of sustainable development and public finance. Attend relevant webinars or conferences to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into the challenges and innovations in subsidy reform.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in detail, especially those that demonstrate your ability to analyse complex data and develop innovative solutions. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated similar challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your coaching and mentoring skills by preparing examples of how you've supported junior colleagues in the past. This will highlight your leadership abilities and your commitment to building a strong team dynamic.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Consultant, Subsidy Methodologies
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing your application, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Senior Consultant, Subsidy Methodologies position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with their needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, focus on your 10+ years of experience in public finance, energy taxation, or related fields. Provide specific examples of your work that demonstrate your expertise in subsidy analysis and methodological approaches.
Showcase Your Skills: Emphasise your quantitative and qualitative research skills, as well as your ability to communicate complex technical issues clearly. Mention any experience you have with tools like Excel or PowerBI, as these are relevant to the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only express your interest in the position but also explain why you are a great fit for IISD. Use persuasive language to convey your passion for sustainability and fiscal justice, and how you can contribute to their mission.
How to prepare for a job interview at International Institute for Sustainable Development
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Make sure to highlight your deep expertise in public finance, taxation, and subsidy analysis during the interview. Prepare specific examples of methodologies you've developed or improved, especially those related to fossil fuel subsidies.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with quantitative and qualitative research. You might be asked to analyse a case study or provide insights on subsidy tracking frameworks, so brush up on your analytical skills and be prepared to think critically.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since the role involves explaining complex technical issues to diverse audiences, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and persuasively. Use simple language to explain intricate concepts, as this will demonstrate your ability to adapt your communication style.
✨Prepare for Coaching Questions
Expect questions about your experience in mentoring or coaching junior colleagues. Think of examples where you've guided others in analytical practices or writing discipline, as this will show your leadership potential and commitment to team development.
