Commercial & Contracts Officer – Bhubaneswar, Odisha

Why Imperative

Imperative is building one of the world’s most ambitious and scientifically rigorous portfolios of nature-based carbon removal projects. Operating across Latin America, Africa, and Asia, we develop large-scale reforestation, mangrove restoration and other ecosystem-restoration project assets under a build–own–operate model, ensuring scientific integrity, operational excellence, and long-term accountability.

We aim to set the global benchmark for quality, transparency, and durability in the markets for nature-based removal credits. Our projects integrate sound forestry and applied field ecology, supported by major-projects execution capabilities, advanced remote sensing, and state-of-the-art carbon measurement and modelling to deliver true, infrastructure-grade removal outcomes.

As our portfolio scales across multiple geographies and project types, we are growing the Carbon & Impact team to match. This role will sit at the core of project delivery, translating science, data, and standards into credible, investment-grade carbon assets.

Our Values

• Integrity: We act honourably and are guided by a strong moral compass. If things go wrong, we put our hand up, admit it, and adapt.
• Momentum: Speed matters. We have a bias to action. We think quickly, plan tirelessly, mitigate risks, and above all, take action.
• Purpose: We are driven by our desire to make the world better with every interaction, process, and project.
• Accountability: We do what we say and deliver. We seek to be the best at what we do.
• Collaboration: We celebrate diversity of thought, values, and backgrounds, harnessing the strength of our people and partners to achieve more together through teamwork and creativity.
• Tenacity: We are highly ambitious, driven, and hardworking. We persist until we deliver impact.

About the Role 

1. Imperative is developing a mangrove restoration project in coastal Odisha, working in partnership with local communities and Gram Panchayats. 
2. We are seeking a Commercial & Contracts Officer, to be engaged on a contractual basis. The role is based on Bhubaneswar, with frequent travel to project sites. 
3. Key Responsibilities 
4. Lead commercial discussions with Gram Panchayats and support the signing of community agreements, explaining terms and calculations in clear, simple language. 
5. Identify and screen local vendors in accordance with Imperative standards and protocols, obtain quotations and manage contracting through to purchase order. 
6. Monitor vendor performance and coordinate with field teams to resolve issues at site. 
7. Maintain trackers and submit regular progress reports. 

What We Are Looking For 

1. A degree in Commerce, Business Administration, Economics or Rural Management; an MBA or master’s in Rural Management is preferred. 
2. 5–7 years of experience combining commercial, contracting or procurement work with field operations, preferably in rural Odisha. 
3. Good understanding of commercial terms and contracts, with strong negotiation and communication skills. 
4. Fluency in Odia and English, and proficiency in MS Excel. 
5. Willingness to travel extensively to project sites. 
6. A strong commitment to integrity and compliance, including transparent procurement, accurate record-keeping and zero tolerance for bribery, kickbacks or undisclosed conflicts of interest. 
7. Alignment with Imperative’s mission and values, including respect for local communities and their right to free, prior and informed consent, a commitment to fair and transparent benefit-sharing, and a genuine interest in ecosystem restoration and climate action. 

Equal Opportunity 

• Imperative is an equal opportunity organisation. We welcome applications from all qualified individuals and do not discriminate on the basis of gender, caste, religion, ethnicity, disability, age, marital status or any other characteristic protected by law. All engagement decisions are based on merit, qualifications and the requirements of the assignment. 

• Imperative does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process and has not authorised any third party to do so.