Expert Economic Development & Climate Innovation - Northern Europe

BABLE Smart Cities · GmbH Are you ready to drive transformative change at the intersection of climate action, regional economic development, and European innovation policy? BABLE is seeking an expert-level advisor to lead strategic initiatives across our Northern Europe operations, shaping how cities and regions accelerate their sustainable economic growth. About BABLE BABLE Smart Cities is the Facilitator for Smart Cities in Europe, born as a spin-off from Fraunhofer Research Society. With a decade of experience in the field, we offer practical insights gained by practitioners, for practitioners. Our mission is to accelerate change in the public and private sectors by providing market access and knowledge. We have already facilitated €2Billion in Smart City projects with cities, towns, and regions. Our free knowledge hub connects innovators and the public sector, providing access to the most comprehensive Smart City datasets and insights in Europe. With a growing presence across Europe, we combine local knowledge with global best practices to implement more projects faster. Join us on the journey to a better urban life! The Role As an Expert Advisor, you will lead complex consultancy and platform projects across climate action, regional economic development, EU policy, and innovation ecosystems. You will combine sector expertise with strategic commercial acumen to drive project delivery, client outcomes, and revenue growth across Northern Europe. What This Role Involves: Acquiring and leading delivery of consultancy projects spanning climate action, economic development, and smart city/ AI initiatives across public sector clients in Northern Europe. Conducting strategic research and policy analysis on EU funding instruments, climate transition mechanisms, regional competitiveness drivers, and innovation ecosystem development. Identifying and structuring EU funding opportunities, developing concept ideas and strategic positioning to support European cities and regions in securing major grants. Authoring and presenting comprehensive reports, policy briefs, investment frameworks, and strategic recommendations for public sector clients including municipalities and regional authorities. Leading stakeholder engagement with public sector organizations, innovation ecosystem actors, venture capital, accelerators, and digital hubs building relationships and incorporating market insights into project strategy. Monitoring and interpreting EU and national policy developments relevant to climate transition, regional competitiveness, and economic development across Northern Europe, translating trends into client strategy. Owning full-cycle project acquisition and delivery including opportunity identification, proposal development, project execution, and post-delivery client relationship management. Contributing to commercial growth by identifying new revenue opportunities, developing proposals, and managing project budgets and timelines. What We Expect From You: Strategic thinking and the ability to translate complex policy and economic challenges into actionable client recommendations. Demonstrated track record of leading projects from conception through delivery, managing stakeholders, and driving measurable outcomes. Deep expertise in climate action, sustainable finance, economic development, or related policy domains, with the ability to connect these across innovation and urban challenges. Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills with the ability to synthesize complex information and present clear recommendations. Strong communication skills in English (written and spoken) with the ability to engage credibly with senior public sector decision-makers and international stakeholders. Commercial mindset with confidence in representing the organization, negotiating with clients, and contributing to revenue growth. Mastery of MS Office tools, particularly Excel and PowerPoint, for data analysis and high-quality deliverable production. Your Profile: Minimum 4 years of relevant professional experience in climate action and adaptation planning, economic development, smart specialization, enterprise ecosystem development, sustainable finance, or related policy domains. Experience working with or supporting Irish public sector is a plus. Master's degree in Economic Development, Public Policy, Public Administration, Urban or Regional Planning, Sustainability, Climate Change, Energy, or Business/Management (with sustainability, innovation, or public sector focus). Equivalent professional experience may be considered. Native or fluent English (written and spoken). German or Northern European language proficiency is a plus. Deep understanding of climate action and energy transition concepts including net-zero strategies, renewable energy systems, emissions reduction, and climate adaptation. Demonstrated knowledge of EU policy and funding landscapes, with named experience of at least two instruments (e.g., Horizon Europe, ERDF, LIFE, EUCF, EUI, ELENA, Interreg). Strong expertise in economic development concepts including regional growth strategies, cluster development, skills ecosystems, SME support, and innovation-driven competitiveness. Demonstrated experience working with public sector organizations—ideally municipalities, regional authorities, or multi-stakeholder policy environments—and understanding their governance, constraints, and decision-making processes. Familiarity with urban and regional innovation ecosystems, including startups, accelerators, digital hubs, and emerging technologies (AI, digital transformation). Why BABLE? We don't just offer positions; we provide opportunities for impact and growth. At BABLE, you'll find: Global Collaboration: Be part of an international team with over 60 colleagues from diverse backgrounds, all united by English as our working language. Growth Galore: Grow professionally through strategic projects, coaching, and exposure to leading-edge climate and economic policy. Innovation at Your Fingertips: Contribute to a movement that turns visionary ideas into reality across Europe's regions. Hybrid Working Opportunity: Enjoy flexible working hours and location flexibility. Time to Recharge: Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with generous time off on a full-time contract. Tools of the Trade: Receive a laptop and tech equipment to support your work. Empowered Autonomy: Embrace a flat company structure that grants you the autonomy to drive strategy and lead projects. How to Apply: We are accepting applications on a rolling basis. Apply by sending your CV and a concise motivation letter outlining your sector expertise, relevant project experience, and vision for the role. If you're unsure whether your profile aligns with our expectations, reach out to us. Join Our Inclusive Movement: BABLE Smart Cities proudly champions equal opportunities. We're committed to fostering an inclusive workplace that welcomes candidates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, age, marital status, disability, or gender identity. Your unique perspective is valued here.