Policy Officer

Role:

The Methanol Institute (MI) is looking for a dynamic, well-organized, and proactive Policy Officer to join our Brussels office and support the Managing Director Europe and IMO in advancing MI's strategic advocacy, regulatory engagement, and stakeholder relations within Europe and the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This pivotal role involves providing high-level policy analysis, coordinating secretariat operations for EU and IMO affairs, and contributing to MI's communications strategy. The successful candidate will play a key part in shaping policies that promote methanol as a sustainable fuel and chemical building block, ensuring MI's voice drives impactful change in EU energy policy including maritime decarbonization and low-carbon solutions deployment. A good understanding of shipping decarbonization, maritime and fuel policy is a plus. This position offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of regulatory advocacy, fostering collaborations that accelerate the shift from fossil to sustainable methanol.

Tasks and Responsibilities:

Policy Analysis and Advocacy Support:

· Conduct in-depth research and analysis on EU and IMO policy developments, regulatory changes, and legislative proposals impacting the methanol industry and specifically MI’s members.

· Assist in drafting high-impact policy briefs, position papers, reports, minutes and advocacy materials to influence key stakeholders and align with MI's global strategy.

· Monitor legislative activities, industry trends, and environmental regulations, providing timely summaries and strategic insights to the Managing Director Europe and IMO and MI leadership.

· Support the preparation of presentations, briefings, and materials for internal and external stakeholder meetings, including engagements with EU institutions, national governments, and IMO bodies.

Secretariat Management and Coordination:

· Oversee the operational aspects of MI's EU and IMO secretariat, ensuring seamless governance, compliance, and alignment with organizational priorities.

· Prepare and coordinate EU and IMO working group calls, including drafting agendas, creating and sharing slides and materials in advance, sending invitations, and facilitating productive discussions.

· Prepare Policy & Regulations Committee calls in collaboration with the Chairs of the EU, IMO and Americas Working Groups, developing agendas, compiling supporting documents, and ensuring all participants are well-informed.

· Ensure effective and timely follow up including assigning deadlines, tracking progress to drive accountability and results.

· Facilitate coordination between MI's global offices, Working Groups, and Committees to support consistent policy advocacy and decision-making.

Stakeholder Engagement and Communications Support:

· Promote EU and IMO activities by working closely with MI's Global Communications Manager (based in Germany) to ensure effective communication, dissemination of information, and alignment on advocacy campaigns.

· Build and maintain relationships with policymakers, regulators, industry stakeholders, and external partners to amplify MI's influence.

· Assist in organizing public events, webinars, closed expert meetings, and high-level forums, including logistical arrangements and closely collaborate with communications teams.

· Support member engagement by providing regulatory updates, insights, and networking opportunities that enhance business outcomes for MI's leading producers, distributors, and technology companies.

Key Competencies:

· Strong research, analytical, and strategic thinking skills, with a proven ability to synthesize complex policy information into actionable recommendations.

· Excellent organizational and project management abilities, including multitasking, prioritizing deadlines, and following up on action items with precision.

· Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with proficiency in drafting high-quality documents and delivering clear presentations.

· Independent, self-driven work ethic combined with collaborative teamwork in a fast-paced, global environment.

· Keen interest and knowledge of energy policy, environmental regulations, maritime affairs, and the chemical/fuels sector, particularly the transition to low-carbon fuels. Proven knowledge of shipping decarbonization policy is a plus.

· Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and experience with virtual collaboration tools.

· Fluency in English (native or near-native); proficiency in French, Danish, or other European languages is a strong asset.

Qualifications:

· Advanced degree in political/social sciences, international relations, public policy, environmental science, maritime affairs, or related fields.

· Minimum of 1-3 years of relevant experience in policy analysis, public affairs, advocacy, or association management, preferably in the energy, chemical, or maritime sectors.

· Demonstrated experience in supporting regulatory engagement, stakeholder mapping, and event coordination.

· Familiarity with EU policy-making processes, IMO frameworks, and industry advocacy strategies.

· Proven track record in preparing meeting materials, managing secretariats, and driving follow-up actions.

· Eligibility to work in Belgium.

Application Process:

Interested candidates are invited to submit the following documents in English via email to MI@methanol.org:

· Curriculum vitae/resume.

· Motivation letter outlining your suitability and motivation for the position.

· Recent writing sample (e.g., policy brief or analysis, no more than 2.000 words).

· Overview of previous relevant experience in policy support or advocacy, highlighting key achievements.

About Methanol Institute (MI):

MI is the global trade association, representing the world’s leading methanol producers and distributors, transporters, shipping companies, and technology providers. With over 100 members and offices in Washington D.C, Brussels, Delhi, Singapore, and Beijing, we serve as the voice of the global methanol industry, promoting methanol as a key chemical building block and an alternative fuel for transportation and power generation. For more information, visit  connect with us on LinkedIn.