International Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established in 1972, UNEP has grown to encompass a diverse workforce of thousands of employees across various countries, working collaboratively to address pressing environmental issues. UNEP operates in over 150 countries, focusing on areas such as climate change, sustainable development, and biodiversity conservation, among others. The organization aims to inspire, inform, and enable nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

Job Overview:
The International Consultant will play a crucial role in the implementation of the 'Vanishing Treasures' project, particularly focusing on the Bhutan component. This position involves coordinating the delivery of project milestones and indicators as outlined in the project’s logframe and workplan. The consultant will be responsible for organizing workshops and meetings, collecting and analyzing data, and engaging with partners and experts to ensure the successful execution of project activities. Additionally, the consultant will contribute to the development of concepts aimed at securing suitable financing mechanisms for the project. The role also includes participating in relevant meetings with a strong emphasis on mountain biodiversity, preparing background materials, and supporting UNEP's initiatives related to ecosystem restoration in mountain regions. The consultant will work closely with UNEP's Global Biodiversity Framework coordination-team" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Coordination Team to mainstream mountain biodiversity issues on a global level, particularly in the context of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the International Consultant include:

• Coordinating the delivery of milestones and indicators under phase 2 of the Vanishing Treasures project’s Bhutan component, ensuring alignment with the logframe/workplan.
• Organizing workshops and meetings, conducting data collection and analysis, and facilitating pilot work as necessary.
• Consulting with partners and experts to identify national and regional policy planning instruments for scaling up available solutions.
• Contributing to the development of concepts targeting suitable financing mechanisms for project activities.
• Successfully coordinating activities related to the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, including organizing side events and providing advocacy materials.
• Participating in meetings focused on mountain biodiversity, preparing and reviewing relevant background materials.
• Contributing to UNEP's work on mountains within the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, analyzing conditions for ecosystem restoration in mountain regions, and supporting flagship initiatives.
• Developing project concepts and funding proposals with a focus on mountain biodiversity and targeting identified funding mechanisms.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a first-level degree (Bachelor or equivalent) in environmental sciences, environmental/natural resource management sciences, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of five years of relevant professional work experience in project management at the national and/or international level is required. Experience in mountain biodiversity-related projects, as well as familiarity with international NGOs and state authorities, is highly desirable. Candidates with experience working in the Asia-Pacific region and in UN or other international development organizations with a focus on environmental issues will be given preference.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a first-level degree (Bachelor or equivalent) in environmental sciences, environmental/natural resource management sciences, or a related field. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to the project and its objectives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant professional work experience in project management, particularly in areas related to mountain biodiversity. Experience at both national and international levels is essential, as is familiarity with the workings of international NGOs and state authorities. Experience in the Asia-Pacific region is particularly desirable, as it will enhance the consultant's understanding of the local context and challenges. Additionally, prior experience working with the UN or other international development organizations focused on environmental issues will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required 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 who are fluent in both languages will have a competitive advantage in this role.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy is six months, and the position is based in Vienna, Austria. The consultant will work under the guidance and supervision of the Programme Management Officer responsible for the Vanishing Treasures project. 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. The organization also does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.