Programme Specialist (Environment and Climate)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been a significant development partner for the Government of Suriname and its citizens since its establishment in 199

• The organization focuses on various programmatic areas, including Democratic Governance, Social Development and Inclusion, Environment, Climate Change, and Natural Resource Management. UNDP Suriname is currently working on the Country Program for 2022-2026, which aims to support Suriname in achieving its national priorities and commitments, particularly in relation to climate change and sustainable development. The organization is also in the process of formulating the new Country Programme Document (CPD) for 2027-2031, building on the lessons learned from the current cycle. UNDP operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing a diverse workforce dedicated to promoting sustainable development and improving the quality of life for people in various regions.

Job Overview:
The Programme Specialist (Environment and Climate) will play a crucial role in managing and developing a comprehensive program portfolio that addresses various topics related to the environment, climate change, resilience, and natural resource management. This position requires the incumbent to work closely with the Deputy Resident Representative and the Resident Representative to ensure that the program aligns with Suriname's national priorities and UNDP's global policies. The Programme Specialist will be responsible for executing and accelerating the delivery of results while building a pipeline of new initiatives. Additionally, the role involves maintaining and expanding partnerships with various stakeholders, including government entities, bilateral donors, UN agencies, and other organizations. The Programme Specialist will also be expected to foster collaboration across different areas of work within UNDP Suriname, ensuring that the inclusion of Indigenous and Tribal peoples and other relevant stakeholders is prioritized. As a senior management team member, the incumbent will support strategic planning, knowledge management, and policy development within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Formulate and implement UNDP programme strategies and policies, contributing to the analysis of the political, social, and economic situation in Suriname. Collaborate on the UN Common Country Assessment and Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, ensuring that environmental and climate change considerations are integrated into strategic documents.
• Manage the Environment and Climate Change programme, leading a team focused on quality assurance and risk management throughout the programming cycle. Design and oversee programme implementation, ensuring alignment with UNDP priorities and effective collaboration with other units.
• Establish and maintain strategic partnerships and support resource mobilization efforts to achieve programme outcomes. Develop partnerships with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, financial institutions, and civil society organizations.
• Provide top-quality advisory services and facilitate knowledge building and management, identifying policy-driven issues and best practices related to Suriname's priorities. Organize training for project staff and contribute to UNDP knowledge networks.
• Supervise the Environment and Climate Change team, ensuring compliance with UNDP rules and regulations while promoting a collaborative and high-performing work environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in sustainable development, environmental management/sciences, international relations, conservation biology/ecology, geography, natural resource management, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience will be considered. Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience (7 years with a Bachelor's degree) in policy support related to environmental issues, climate change, and natural resource management at national, regional, or international levels. Proven experience in management advisory services, project design, monitoring, and evaluation is essential, along with the ability to establish partnerships and mobilize resources effectively. Strong leadership and team management skills are required, as well as expertise in project and programme management.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in fields such as sustainable development, environmental management/sciences, international relations, conservation biology/ecology, geography, or natural resource management. A first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree) in these fields, combined with relevant experience, will also be considered. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental and climate change issues and for effectively managing related programmes.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience with a Master's degree or 7 years with a Bachelor's degree in areas such as environmental policy support, climate change, forestry, natural resource management, or related fields. Experience working with government institutions in Suriname is required, along with a proven track record in providing management advisory services and establishing inter-relationships among international organizations and national governments. Strong leadership and collaboration skills are essential, as well as expertise in project and programme management, including design, planning, monitoring, and evaluation.

Languages:
Fluency in Dutch and English is required for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication with stakeholders, partners, and team members, as well as for the preparation of reports and other written outputs.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment, and UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that values diversity and promotes equal opportunity. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures that all selected candidates adhere to relevant standards and principles. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions at the same grade level. Additionally, candidates should be aware that UNDP does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.