UNEP MEA Orientation and Negotiations Consultant

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 has been operational since its establishment in 197

• The organization employs thousands of individuals across various countries, working collaboratively to address pressing environmental issues and support sustainable development initiatives worldwide. UNEP's West Asia Office specifically delivers advisory services and capacity-building support to countries in the region, helping them achieve their environmental and sustainable development objectives. This consultancy is part of a Strategic Cooperation Agreement between UNEP and the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, reflecting UNEP's commitment to fostering international partnerships for environmental sustainability.

Job Overview:
The UNEP MEA Orientation and Negotiations Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the closure of the SESP Third Workplan and the implementation of the SESP Fourth Workplan. The consultant will be responsible for preparing and delivering technical inputs across various project components, including the Negotiators’ Training Programme and the Environmental Orientation Programme. This position requires a strong understanding of environmental policies and negotiation techniques, as well as the ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders, including government bodies and civil society organizations. The consultant will also be tasked with project reporting and strategic communications, ensuring that all outputs reflect the progress and achievements of the project while facilitating effective communication among stakeholders. The role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to adapt to the dynamic needs of the project and its participants.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Negotiators’ Training Programme – Phase II: Lead the development of concept notes, agendas, and programme design for a Course on Negotiation Skills and Techniques, ensuring alignment with project objectives. Coordinate the development of training materials and oversee logistical preparations for workshop delivery. Prepare post-workshop reports capturing key outcomes and recommendations.
• Environmental Orientation Programme: Develop the concept and programme design for the Environmental Orientation Programme, including course materials. Coordinate with subject-matter experts for programme delivery and prepare post-training reports.
• Project Reporting and Strategic Communications: Prepare SESP Workplans and periodic project progress reports, ensuring accurate reflection of implementation progress. Develop executive presentations and briefing notes for high-level engagements.
• Cross-Cutting Responsibilities: Coordinate data collection across project teams and provide technical support to the Project Manager on project components and outputs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Environmental Science, Environmental Economics, International Relations, Political Science, Public Policy, Development Studies, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. A PhD is also desirable. Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of professional experience in project coordination, reporting, research, or technical support in environmental or sustainable development projects. Proven experience in preparing technical reports and policy briefs for international organizations is required, along with demonstrated experience in coordinating multi-stakeholder engagements and organizing training programmes and workshops.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Environmental Science, Environmental Economics, International Relations, Political Science, Public Policy, Development Studies, or a related area. A first-level university degree may be accepted with additional qualifying experience, and a PhD is considered desirable for this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of professional experience in project coordination, reporting, research, or technical support specifically related to environmental or sustainable development projects. Experience in preparing technical reports, policy briefs, and project proposals for international organizations or governmental entities is essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience in coordinating multi-stakeholder engagements and organizing consultation meetings, training programmes, and workshops.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is required for this position, as effective communication in both languages is essential for engaging with diverse stakeholders and delivering training programmes.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 13 months, and the position is based in Beirut, Lebanon. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not required to provide any financial information or pay any fees during the application process.