Sustainable Wildlife Management 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. Established in 1972, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and has a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), which was opened for signature at the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, is one of UNEP's key initiatives. The CBD has three main objectives: the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the use of genetic resources. The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD) is located in Montreal, Canada, and is administered by UNEP. It is responsible for arranging and servicing meetings of the Conference of the Parties, preparing pertinent documentation, operating the central node of the clearing-house mechanism, and providing technical support for the effective implementation of the Convention in collaboration with various international bodies and processes.

Job Overview:
The Sustainable Wildlife Management Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in implementing specific decisions related to biodiversity conservation and sustainable wildlife management. This position is vital for advancing the goals outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, particularly focusing on Goal B and Targets 4, 5, 9, and 1

• The consultant will work remotely and is expected to engage with various stakeholders, lead the development of global guidance on sustainable wildlife management, and support the preparations for intergovernmental meetings. The role requires a strong understanding of biodiversity issues and the ability to collaborate effectively with partners to ensure the successful implementation of COP decisions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Sustainable Wildlife Management Consultant will be responsible for the following duties:

• Support the implementation of COP decision 16/15 and 15/7 by leading the development of draft global guidance on sustainable wildlife management.
• Engage with partners and stakeholders to address issues related to the implementation of these decisions.
• Assist in the preparations for and servicing of intergovernmental meetings, ensuring that all necessary documentation and support are provided.
• Conduct independent research and analysis on biodiversity conservation and sustainable wildlife management practices.
• Collaborate with the Senior Programme Management Officer and the Principal Programme Management Officer to align activities with the overall goals of the Biodiversity Science, Policy and Governance Unit.
• Provide technical support and expertise to enhance the effectiveness of the Convention on Biological Diversity's initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s Degree or equivalent) in biodiversity conservation, natural resources management, ecology, wildlife management, or related fields. Interdisciplinary exposure across environmental, social, or economic disciplines is desirable. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Candidates should demonstrate strong conceptual, analytical, and evaluative skills necessary for conducting independent research and analysis.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as biodiversity conservation, natural resources management, ecology, or wildlife management. Candidates with a first-level university degree may also be considered if they have additional qualifying experience. A strong academic foundation in environmental sciences or related disciplines is essential for success in this role.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of progressive experience in biodiversity conservation, natural resources management, ecology, and wildlife management is required. Experience working within the United Nations system or other multilateral processes is highly desirable. Candidates should also have experience in integrating nature and biodiversity considerations into various policies and sectors, as well as familiarity with the Convention on Biological Diversity.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both oral and written) is required for this position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of other UN official languages is considered desirable. Fluency is defined as a rating of 'fluent' in all four areas: reading, writing, speaking, and understanding, while knowledge is defined as 'confident' in two of the four areas.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote and home-based, with an expected duration of 12 months. The consultant may be required to travel as necessary. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Additionally, the organization does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.