Consultant for UNEP Western Balkan Portfolio

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading international 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 has grown to become a pivotal organization in addressing global environmental issues, with a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. It operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. UNEP's work encompasses a wide range of environmental issues, including climate change, biodiversity, land degradation, and pollution, making it a key player in global environmental governance.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in analyzing and enhancing the UNEP's Western Balkan project portfolio. This position involves reviewing existing projects, engaging with stakeholders, and developing promotional materials that effectively communicate the impact and achievements of UNEP's initiatives in the region. The consultant will be expected to facilitate consultation meetings, gather feedback, and propose new strategies for promoting environmental sustainability in the Western Balkans. The role requires a deep understanding of environmental issues, project management, and the ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively. The consultant will also be responsible for mapping potential donors and identifying strategic opportunities for funding, thereby contributing to the sustainability and effectiveness of UNEP's projects in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Collaborating with UNEP colleagues and partners to coordinate and implement project tasks.
• Reviewing the existing UNEP/GEF portfolio brochure to assess its effectiveness.
• Conducting a legal overview of relevant legislation and institutional frameworks in the environmental sector across Western Balkan countries.
• Scanning the past and existing Western Balkans projects’ portfolio to identify successes and areas for improvement.
• Organizing consultation meetings with local teams to discuss findings and gather insights on project activities.
• Proposing a new promotional portfolio outline or environmental outlook based on research findings and stakeholder feedback.
• Presenting draft proposals to UNEP teams for discussion and finalization.
• Mapping potential donors and their strategic priorities to identify funding opportunities for the region.
• Ensuring gender equality is mainstreamed in all project activities and enhancing transparency in operations. 1
• Providing additional support related to project concepts and assignments as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a postgraduate degree (Master's or equivalent) in environmental or natural resource management, legal studies, international relations, or a related field. A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in administrative, legal, or project management roles is required. Candidates should demonstrate experience in supporting environment-related projects, particularly in information analysis and strategic communication regarding climate impact and nature protection. Proficiency in using office software packages, including MS Word and Excel, is essential, along with advanced knowledge of spreadsheet and database management. Experience with web-based management systems is also desirable. Familiarity with the UN or other international organizations is a plus, as is proof of successful completion of similar contracts.

Educational Background:
A postgraduate degree (Master's or equivalent) in a relevant field such as environmental management, natural resource management, legal studies, or international relations is required for this position. This educational background should be complemented by practical experience in the environmental sector or related fields, ensuring that candidates have both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for effective project management and communication.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of progressively responsible experience in administrative, legal, or project management roles. This experience should ideally include work on environment-related projects, with a focus on information analysis and strategic communication regarding climate impact, nature protection, and disaster risk management. Experience working with international organizations, particularly the UN, is highly desirable, as is a proven track record of successfully managing contracts of a similar nature.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also beneficial, as it is another working language of the UN. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the organization's objectives.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for a duration of six months. The consultant will work full-time and will be engaged in a project that requires a high level of collaboration with various stakeholders, including government authorities, civil society, and private sector representatives. The role is focused on enhancing the effectiveness of UNEP's initiatives in the Western Balkans, and the consultant will be expected to contribute to the development of new project concepts and strategies. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.