Environmental Policy Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which is a global development network established in 196

• UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and has a mission to help countries achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNDP is known for its commitment to fostering partnerships and engaging with local communities to implement effective solutions to development challenges.

Job Overview:
The Environmental Policy Specialist position is part of the UNDP BIOFIN project in Bahrain, which aims to enhance biodiversity finance and promote sustainable environmental practices. The specialist will be responsible for leading the Policy and Institutional Review (PIR), which involves assessing existing policies and frameworks related to biodiversity and environmental management. The role also includes providing critical inputs for the Biodiversity Finance Plan, which is essential for mobilizing financial resources for biodiversity conservation. Additionally, the specialist will facilitate stakeholder consultations and validation workshops, ensuring that diverse perspectives are integrated into the project. Coordination with national institutions is a key aspect of this role, as it requires collaboration with various stakeholders to align project objectives with national priorities. The assignment is designed to be delivered remotely, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements, and is expected to span approximately 75 working days over a period of 12 months.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Environmental Policy Specialist include:

• Conducting a comprehensive Policy and Institutional Review (PIR) to evaluate existing environmental policies and frameworks in Bahrain.
• Developing and providing inputs for the Biodiversity Finance Plan, ensuring alignment with national and international biodiversity goals.
• Organizing and facilitating stakeholder consultations and validation workshops to gather input and feedback from relevant parties.
• Coordinating with national institutions and other stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of project activities.
• Preparing detailed reports and documentation of findings from the PIR and stakeholder engagements.
• Providing technical advice and recommendations to enhance biodiversity finance strategies.
• Engaging with local communities and organizations to promote awareness and support for biodiversity initiatives.
• Monitoring and evaluating the progress of project activities and making necessary adjustments to achieve desired outcomes.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Environmental Policy Specialist position include:

• A strong background in environmental policy, biodiversity conservation, or a related field.
• Proven experience in conducting policy reviews and developing strategic plans for environmental management.
• Familiarity with biodiversity finance mechanisms and sustainable development practices.
• Excellent analytical and research skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information into actionable recommendations.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with experience in stakeholder engagement and facilitation.
• Proficiency in project management and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote setting.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes:

• A Master's degree or higher in environmental science, public policy, sustainable development, or a related field.
• Additional certifications or training in biodiversity conservation or environmental management are advantageous.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for the Environmental Policy Specialist position includes:

• A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in environmental policy, biodiversity finance, or related areas.
• Experience working with international organizations, government agencies, or NGOs on environmental projects is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in leading policy reviews and stakeholder consultations.

Languages:
Mandatory languages for this position include proficiency in English, as it is the primary language of communication within UNDP. Knowledge of Arabic is considered an asset, as it may facilitate engagement with local stakeholders and enhance communication effectiveness.

Additional Notes:
Additional notes regarding the position include:

• The contract duration is for 75 working days, spread over approximately 12 months.
• The position is classified as an individual contractor role, which may offer flexibility in terms of work hours and location.
• The recruitment process is open to both national and international candidates, encouraging a diverse pool of applicants.
• Compensation and benefits will be discussed during the hiring process, and candidates are encouraged to inquire about these details.