Head of Energy and Climate Department (m/f/d)
Sankt Gallen
Key information
- Publication date:27 January 2026
- Workload:100%
- Place of work:Sankt Gallen
Job summary
Join the Canton of St.Gallen, Switzerland's fifth-largest canton. Contribute to society's welfare with diverse services.
Tasks
- Lead a team of seven in the Energy and Climate Department.
- Drive the implementation of the cantonal energy concept.
- Manage collaborations with various stakeholders effectively.
Skills
- Master's degree in energy or environmental fields preferred.
- Strong understanding of energy policies and climate challenges.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
Is this helpful?
As the fifth largest canton in Switzerland with around 6000 employees, we are committed to the common good of society at the
cantonal administration. With an impressive variety of services,
our work affects all areas of life, whether education, economy, law, security, nature, health, construction, culture, or finance. With our meaningful
work, we leave a small footprint every day, as it is relevant to over half a million people.
The Office for Water and Energy (AWE) is committed to safe and intact waters, protection against floods and natural hazards, protection and sustainable use of rivers, streams, lakes, and groundwater, and the implementation and further development of energy and climate policy.
Due to the retirement of the previous position holder, we are looking for a
Head of Energy and Climate Department (m/f/d)
Workload: 100%
Workplace: St. Gallen
What to expect
- Overall management of the department with seven employees and active control of resources in personnel, professional, and financial terms
- Strategic key position for the further development and implementation of the cantonal energy concept as well as climate protection measures
- Active interface management and coordination of cooperation with the Energy Agency St. Gallen, federal offices, as well as internal and external partners
- Professional representation of cantonal interests in commissions, towards the media, and the public
- Management of complex government and cantonal council matters as well as drafting well-founded statements on federal political proposals
What distinguishes you
- University degree (Master University/ETH/FH), ideally related to energy and environment
- Solid understanding of current energy economic and climate policy challenges as well as their technical and legal implications
- Strategic and networked thinking to translate political requirements into pragmatic, effective administrative solutions
- Several years of leadership experience and proven competence in dealing with political processes and public administration
- Strong communication skills, personal responsibility, assertiveness, negotiation skills, and high social competence
What we offer
- A strategically important leadership role with a high degree of creative freedom at the interface of politics, economy, and environment
- The opportunity to significantly shape the energy future of the canton of St. Gallen and achieve socially relevant results
- Collaboration with a competent, specialized, and motivated team in a dynamic and thematically diverse environment
- Attractive employment conditions of the canton of St. Gallen, flexible working time models, and a modern workplace in the city center
Ready for the next step? If we have sparked your interest and you want to be part of the team, we look forward to your application.
Further information from:
Ralph Brändle, Head of the Office for Water and Energy, Phone 058 229 87 14