Policy Advisor Full-time

Deadline for application: 26 May 2024
Interviews will start immediately and continue until the vacancy has been filled
Start date: as soon as possible, exact date to be agreed
Duration: 1 year contract with possibility of renewal
Location: Brussels

About OpenForum Europe
OpenForum Europe (OFE) is a not-for-profit think tank which explains the merits of openness in computing to policy makers and communities across Europe. The openness principles which guide all our activities are: user centricity, competition, flexibility, sustainability, and the importance of relying on the support of a transparent and open community. Originally launched in 2002 to accelerate and broaden the use of Open Source Software (OSS) among businesses, consumers and governments, OFE’s focus has since evolved. The main policy topics that we cover are: Open Technologies, standardisation, Digital Government, digital platforms, public procurement, copyright, cloud computing and cybersecurity.

We are looking for a:

Policy Advisor

Job Summary:
OpenForum Europe is seeking a Policy Advisor to shape and advocate digital policies, focusing on the advancement of open technologies and digital sovereignty within the public sector. This role involves policy research and development aligned with the new regulatory landscape, including the Interoperable Europe Act and the EU Cyber Resilience Act. The successful candidate will play a key role in meeting OFE’s strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct in-depth research and provide consultancy on open source-related issues. Develop policy recommendations and strategic plans that align with the evolving regulatory landscape (in particular the Interoperable Europe Act and the EU Cyber Resilience Act).
• Analyse current open source policy and legal frameworks, assessing the impact of new and ongoing OSS initiatives. Utilise findings to shape public sector digital policies, focusing on topics such as digital sovereignty.
• Create informative and authoritative content on open source developments and policies. Ensure this content supports broader communication and educational efforts, indirectly contributing to platforms engaged in similar work.
• Foster user engagement and strengthen community-building efforts. Initiate and maintain dialogue with key stakeholders, enhancing the understanding and implementation of open source solutions within the public sector.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with European policymakers, industry leaders, and technology advocates to advance OFE’s policy goals. Represent OFE in discussions that promote the integration of open source software in public sector digitisation.
• Represent OFE at conferences and forums, delivering presentations and engaging in discussions.

Profile

• Comprehensive knowledge of European digital policies and regulations, with a specific focus on interoperability and public sector digitisation.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience, although candidates with more extensive experience are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Proven track record in policy analysis, development, and articulation.
• Exceptional writing skills with a knack for simplifying complex digital policy matters. Experience in drafting policy briefs, opinions, and reports is crucial.
• English proficiency, both written and spoken, is mandatory. Proficiency in other major EU languages would be advantageous.
• Familiarity with networking and public speaking; prior experience in building relations with other organisations, stakeholders, and thought leaders in the digital policy realm.

Please submit your application comprising a CV, cover letter and two references to jobs[at]openforumeurope[dot]org. We strongly encourage adding sample writings and talks that are relevant to this position. Should you have any queries, feel free to contact us via the same email.