Director-General

Director-General of the International Renewable Energy Agency

The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) is seeking an exceptional international leader to serve as its next Director-General.

As the world’s leading intergovernmental organization dedicated to renewable energy, with 171 Members, IRENA plays a central role in accelerating the global energy transition through policy advice, analysis, stakeholder engagement, and international cooperation.

Based in Abu Dhabi, the Director-General will serve as the Agency’s head and chief administrative officer, providing strategic leadership, representing IRENA at the highest international levels, and overseeing all programmatic, administrative, financial, and operational functions.

Further information on IRENA is available at: https://www.irena.org/

This appointment calls for a visionary and politically astute leader with strong global leadership credentials, a forward-looking understanding of renewable energy and emerging technologies, and exceptional diplomatic, communication, and stakeholder-management skills.

The successful candidate will guide IRENA through an increasingly complex geopolitical environment, strengthen the Agency’s global visibility and influence, deepen relationships with Members and partners, and ensure IRENA remains agile, credible, and impactful in delivering its mandate.

Candidates should have at least 15 years of professional experience, including substantial senior leadership experience in government, international organizations, the private sector, or related fields, as well as the ability to lead large, multicultural institutions in complex international settings.

The position is for a four-year term, renewable once for one further term only.

Full details, including the vacancy announcement, required application documents, and submission process, are available at:

https://www.russellreynolds.com/en/executive-opportunities.

The deadline for applications is 5th July 2026.