Senior Program Associate – Urban Resilience Who we are and what we do? WRI India, an independent charity legally registered as the India Resources Trust, provides objective information and practical proposals to foster environmentally sound and socially equitable development. WRI India’s mission is to move human society to live in ways that protect Earth’s environment and its capacity to provide for the needs and aspirations of current and future generations. Through research, analysis, and recommendations, WRI India puts ideas into action to build transformative solutions to protect the earth, promote livelihoods, and enhance human well-being.We are inspired by and associated with World Resources Institute (WRI), a global research organization. Currently over 150 researchers are working with WRI India in our offices at Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru.Program Overview for Sustainable Cities and Transport At WRI India Ross Center we focus on 10 integrated solutions to urban challenges. Through applied research, tools, hands-on advice, and by tapping our network of global experts, we accelerate transformative urban initiatives that have the power to change Indian cities into thriving, equitable and low-carbon places that are good for people and the planet. Working at WRI India Ross Center offers you the unique opportunity to learn and grow as you collaborate with a diverse set of change agents across Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai. As India’s biggest urban focused think and do tank, we seek thoughtful, enterprise-minded and sensitive individuals who can help us support this transformation and make a positive difference to citizens’ everyday lives. About your role: The WRI India Ross Centre for Sustainable Cities is seeking to fill a full-time position to advance our urban ecology, adaptation and resilience work in Mumbai. WRI globally, has deep experience in the urban development sector and is widely recognized as a leader in promoting sustainable cities. Currently, WRI India is supporting various government and private agencies to promote nature positive approach as part of their urban adaptation and resilience strategies. The urban resilience projects that you will be involved in, in Mumbai, will help further these goals. You will liaise with government departments, agencies, co-ordinate with local institutions and partners, and work closely with staff from WRI India and consortium partners. You will also advance our policy and project related work in the domain of climate adaptation and nature-based solutions. How your day will unfold: You will support the Sustainable Cities program at WRI India with the following:
Liaise with relevant line departments/ agencies/ parastatal organizations/ CSOs/ NGOs/ local media/ local research institutes in India for various deliverables under the project. Lead the field work including data collection, mapping, conduct primary surveys, FDGs, compilation, analysis and develop presentations. Coordinate with relevant government agencies to obtain required data Lead, organize and conduct stakeholders’ consultations to invite inputs Learn about existing planning policies at the city/state and national level for the same. Assist in organizing events, exhibitions and workshops as needed in the program. Participate in all external and/or internal meetings and stakeholders’ consultations from time to time and provide inputs, as necessary Liaise / coordinate with the partner organizations or organizations working on the ground in the climate adaptation space. Supervise / assist the research team working to develop subnational climate action strategies and data-driven pathways Qualifications and Requirements we seek: The candidate must hold a post-graduate degree in social sciences, geography, sociology, anthropology, regional development, political science or related disciplines. At least 5-7 years of sectoral experience in the field of urban resilience or behavior science or biodiversity Demonstrated experience of working in Indian cities on urban adaptation and community based adaptation projects. Past work experience in studying coastal ecosystems especially mangrove ecosystems or working towards their restoration would be a plus. Credible knowledge of Maharashtra state policies, programs and key stakeholders Knowledge of relevant urban resilience/biodiversity initiatives and programs in India Demonstrated experience in leading and/or contributing to interdisciplinary research projects on nature-based solutions, urban resilience, vulnerability assessments, community based adaptation and other related work Strong communication skills, ability to liaise with government and other stakeholders - to collect data, communicate findings, and seek feedback iteratively Proficiency in quantitative and/or qualitative data collection and analysis. Mapping using GIS tools would be a plus. Demonstrated ability to work both independently as well as part of a team Ability to present complex information in a clear and concise manner Ability to think creatively, work calmly and enthusiastically under pressure Proficiency in Marathi is a plus. Salary and Benefits: 14,00,000 to 18,00,000 INR CTC Per AnnumSalary shall be commensurate with experience and skills. WRI offers a generous and comprehensive benefits package.Duration: 2 years as term hire (extendable based on performance and project requirements) Location: Mumbai, India Start date: As soon as possible