Employment Opportunity: Executive Secretary at the Energy Regulators Association of East Africa (EREA)

Employment Opportunity: Executive Secretary at the Energy Regulators Association of East Africa (EREA)

About EREA: The Energy Regulators Association of East Africa (EREA) is a regional association of National Regulatory Institutions (NRIs) of the East African Community (EAC) countries. Established through an MoU in 2008 and formalized by a Constitution in 2013, EREA aims to create a robust EAC Energy Union.

EREA’s membership includes nine active regulatory institutions from seven EAC countries, such as the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) of Tanzania, Energy Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) of Kenya, and Zanzibar Utility Regulatory Authority (ZURA). Advanced discussions are ongoing to support South Sudan in establishing its regulatory authority.

EREA’s primary functions include harmonizing energy policies, promoting the independence of utility regulation, and advising the EAC on energy policy issues. It also develops capacity-building programs and supports the creation of integrated energy markets through its Energy Regulation Centre of Excellence (ERCE).

Job Title: Executive Secretary (Chief Executive Officer)

Duty Station: Arusha, Tanzania (with frequent travel across EAC countries)

2. Job Purpose:

The Executive Secretary (ES) serves as the Chief Executive Officer of EREA. The ES is responsible for strategic leadership, financial management, implementation of the association’s Strategic Plan, and overseeing the operations of the ERCE. Additionally, the ES will spearhead resource mobilization and coordinate EREA’s activities, including meetings, seminars, and financial reporting.

3. Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Provide strategic leadership and management of the EREA Secretariat.
2. Oversee the operations of the Energy Regulation Centre of Excellence (ERCE).
3. Develop and implement sustainable capacity-building programs for the Eastern Africa region.
4. Ensure efficient implementation of the EREA Constitution and its rules of procedures.
5. Provide leadership in achieving EREA’s vision, mission, and strategic objectives.
6. Advise the Executive Council (EXCO) on policy matters related to harmonizing energy regulatory frameworks.
7. Mobilize resources to support EREA’s programs and projects.
8. Ensure prudent financial management and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
9. Assist in meetings of EXCO and its sub-committees, such as CFA and SPHRC.
10. Represent EREA in regional and international forums.

4. Minimum Qualifications and Experience:

1. Master’s degree in Management, Law, Economics, Finance, Engineering, Business Administration, or equivalent from a recognized university.
2. A PhD in the above fields will be an added advantage.
3. At least 12 years of experience in the energy sector within East Africa, including 5 years in a managerial role.
4. Demonstrable knowledge of energy regulation will be an advantage.
5. Excellent understanding of energy policies, cross-border energy trade, and conventions at national, regional, and international levels.

5. Desirable Competencies:

1. Excellent written and oral communication skills in English (knowledge of French and/or Kiswahili is an added advantage).
2. Proven skills in fundraising and managing donor-funded projects.
3. Strong interpersonal and diplomatic skills.
4. High levels of motivation, innovation, and leadership.

6. Eligibility for Application:

1. Applicants must be nationals of Burundi, Tanzania, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda, or Uganda.
2. Applicants must not exceed 55 years of age at the time of application.
3. The position offers a three-year renewable contract, subject to satisfactory performance. A six-month probationary period applies.

7. Mode of Application:

Applicants must use the prescribed EREA APPLICATION FORM, accessible on the EREA website, and submit their applications via email to erea-recruitment@energyregulators.org by 14th October 2024, 18:00 EAT.

The application package should include:

1. A cover letter explaining the applicant’s suitability for the position.
2. Certified copies of academic and professional certificates.
3. A completed EREA application form.

Address Applications To:

The Chairperson of Executive Council
Energy Regulators Association of East Africa (EREA)
8th Floor, NSSF Mafao House
Old Moshi Road
P.O. Box 1669
Arusha, Tanzania

Join EREA and contribute to advancing energy regulation and integration across East Africa!