Programme Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and was established following the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, where world leaders agreed on a comprehensive strategy for sustainable development. The organization focuses on various environmental issues, including biodiversity, climate change, and pollution, and operates in numerous countries worldwide, employing a diverse workforce dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Officer position is integral to the United Nations Environment Programme's efforts in managing the Convention on Biological Diversity. The incumbent will lead initiatives related to biodiversity and health, addressing the interconnections between human, wildlife, crop, livestock, and ecosystem health. This role involves promoting integrated approaches, such as the One Health approach, to tackle biodiversity loss and its drivers. The officer will work under the guidance of the Head of the Science, Monitoring and Capacity Division and will be responsible for providing scientific, technical, and policy analysis to support decision-making processes at various international meetings. The position requires collaboration with experts and stakeholders to ensure a multidisciplinary approach to biodiversity and health issues, as well as the promotion of cooperation with other organizations and agreements to support the implementation of the Convention and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including: A) Providing objective scientific, technical, and policy analysis to facilitate decision-making by the Conference of the Parties (COP) and other subsidiary bodies, including preparing technical reports and recommendations. B) Engaging relevant experts and stakeholders to ensure a multidisciplinary approach to biodiversity and health issues. C) Promoting cooperation with international organizations, particularly the World Health Organization, to support the implementation of the Convention and Sustainable Development Goals. D) Supporting the implementation of COP decisions and developing capacity-building tools and workshops. E) Participating in education and outreach activities to raise awareness among Parties and stakeholders. F) Collecting and analyzing data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making. G) Performing any other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess advanced university degrees (Master’s or equivalent) in fields such as sustainable development, biological or environmental sciences, economics, public policy, or related areas. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics or related fields is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical skills, knowledge of international conservation processes, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in sustainable development, biological or environmental sciences, economics, public policy, natural resources management, social sciences, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree with additional qualifying experience may be accepted. Completion of programs in data analytics or business analytics is also desirable.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in biodiversity, health, or environmental change issues. At least five years of experience at the international level is required, along with demonstrated experience in supporting intergovernmental processes and preparing technical or policy outputs. Familiarity with Convention processes and issues related to invasive species or wildlife trade is desirable, as is experience in health-related policy or data analytics.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required, with a minimum level of proficiency as per the UN Language Framework. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporary and available for six months, with the possibility of extension. It may be subject to specific eligibility criteria based on funding sources and may be limited to internal candidates. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request. The position is located in Montreal, Canada, and candidates are expected to adhere to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity.