UNPAID VOLUNTEER - Chief Technology Officer (CTO) / Deputy CTO

The Blockchain Climate Institute seeks a volunteer CTO or Deputy CTO to lead its technology strategy and emerging tech division. This remote, part-time director-level role requires deep expertise in blockchain, AI, and data science to support climate action initiatives.

The Blockchain Climate Institute (BCI) operates as an international, volunteer-driven think tank dedicated to applying blockchain and advanced data technologies to combat climate change. This senior position reports directly to the Director-General and involves directing the organization's technological direction while managing specialized divisions focused on emerging technologies and standards. The role demands a flexible commitment of approximately twenty hours per week.

Responsibilities

• Establish and implement the technological strategy and roadmap for all BCI projects and initiatives.
• Lead, build, and oversee the Emerging Technology Division and Standards Development Bureau, including recruitment, training, mentoring, and performance reviews.
• Identify and evaluate optimal datasets and AI models to align with organizational objectives and use cases.
• Design, develop, test, and deploy solutions utilizing distributed ledger technology, IoT, AI, machine learning, data science, and quantum computing.
• Maintain the quality, security, reliability, and scalability of all technology products and services.
• Monitor the performance and impact of technological solutions, providing actionable feedback and recommendations for continuous improvement.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with internal teams and external stakeholders, including partners, sponsors, donors, and beneficiaries.
• Stay current with advancements in emerging technologies, climate science, and sustainability practices.
• Identify and cultivate opportunities for strategic partnerships.
• Represent BCI at conferences and events to share research findings, promote the organization, and engage with key industry stakeholders.

Requirements

• Demonstrated proficiency in blockchain programming is mandatory.
• Exceptional oral communication skills to build effective relationships and interact professionally with stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong organizational abilities to manage competing priorities under pressure.
• Proven track record in computing or mathematics-related tasks within Agile technology projects.
• Experience in fostering constructive relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively to drive projects forward with initiative.
• Experience in designing, planning, and facilitating independent research while meeting tight deadlines.
• Excellent presentation and interpersonal skills to convey ideas persuasively.
• Commitment to an average of twenty hours per week with flexible scheduling.
• Strong technical expertise in programming languages, frameworks, and tools for DLT/Blockchain, data analysis, and AI development, including Solidity, Python, R, TensorFlow, PyTorch, and Scikit-learn.
• Familiarity with data sources, formats, and standards such as APIs, JSON, XML, and CSV, with a detail-oriented approach.
• Experience developing and deploying applications on cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.
• Proven experience leading and managing technology teams and projects, including Agile methodologies, budgeting, reporting, and documentation.
• Passion and knowledge regarding climate and sustainability issues, with a willingness to learn beyond technology to deliver impactful climate actions.
• Master’s degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field.
• At least five years of professional experience in DLT/Blockchain, AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, Data Modelling, or a related field.
• Strong project management and reporting skills with a focus on inter-departmental and inter-organizational communication.
• Ability to work independently and with teams to drive projects forward using own initiative.

Nice to have

• Proficiency in programming AI algorithms is desirable.
• A portfolio of supported Open-Source GitHub projects is desirable.
• Fluency in English and a second language is desirable.

What the company offers

• Opportunities to hone or learn new skills in research, presentation, writing, and professional etiquette.
• Mentally stimulating work that provides a strong sense of purpose.
• Professional career advancement through networking and real-world experience at the intersection of climate and emerging technologies.
• Development of long-lasting professional relationships with industry peers and stakeholders.

About the company

The Blockchain Climate Institute functions as an international, volunteer-led think tank that advocates for the use of blockchain and data technologies in the global fight against climate change. It serves as an expert platform to assist governments, inter-governmental organizations, regional bodies, and corporations in navigating the complex landscape of emerging technologies for environmental benefit. The organization grounds its expertise in rigorous research, identification, and analysis of emerging technology applications, enabling stakeholders in the climate action network to make informed decisions.

• International, volunteer-led think tank focused on climate change mitigation.
• Expert platform assisting governments and organizations in navigating emerging technologies for environmental good.
• Commitment to rigorous research and analysis to support informed decision-making in climate action.
• Focus on strategic partnerships and stakeholder engagement.