Technical Advisor – Environmental (Facilitator)

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. UNEP's mission is to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. The NBSAP Accelerator Partnership is a country-led global initiative aimed at supporting the development and implementation of ambitious National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAP) to collectively achieve the goals and targets of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). Under the leadership of the governments of Colombia and Germany, the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership brings together countries with a Whole of Government and a Whole of Society approach to strengthen global, regional, and national ambition on biodiversity action. This partnership raises the profile of NBSAPs, promotes nature-positive action, fast-tracks implementation support through a matchmaking service, increases access to expertise, knowledge, and capacity development, and provides coordination and facilitation support to countries and regions.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor – Environmental (Facilitator) will represent the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership while being embedded in a relevant ministry or regional institution to support and fast-track the implementation of NBSAPs. The facilitator will act as a bridge between the host government and the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership, playing a crucial role in supporting the implementation of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) aligned with the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). The primary objective of this role is to facilitate the identification and prioritization of NBSAP needs, mobilize support, foster collaboration among stakeholders, and accelerate NBSAP implementation through a Whole of Government and Whole of Society approach. The facilitator will assess the NBSAP landscape, mobilize support, coordinate action, and monitor progress, ensuring that the implementation of biodiversity strategies is effective and aligned with national and global goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Technical Advisor will have several key responsibilities, including: Assessing the NBSAP landscape by identifying and monitoring country/region-specific biodiversity priorities, capacity needs, and implementation challenges. This may involve conducting high-level mapping of stakeholders to identify key players, their motivations, commitments, and potential synergies. Facilitating national, country-specific, multi-stakeholder dialogues and developing a comprehensive work plan outlining goals, objectives, activities, and timelines for NBSAP implementation support in collaboration with the host government or institution. Monitoring country/region-specific NBSAP priorities and implementation progress, providing ongoing support and guidance as needed. Mobilizing support by identifying specific needs and requests on behalf of the host country or region, such as technical capacity, financial resources, and increased political will. Assisting the host government or institution in designing and developing specific requests for support and submitting these requests to relevant stakeholders through the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership matchmaking mechanism or other platforms. Supporting the host government or institution in selecting the best fit of offered support packages and monitoring the implementation of these packages. Coordinating action by fostering alignment and collaboration among existing and emerging initiatives to ensure a Whole of Government and Whole of Society approach, streamlining efforts, leveraging investments, and maximizing synergies across the three Rio Conventions. Supporting the strengthening and monitoring of existing national structures for NBSAP implementation, sharing global best practices, guidance, tools, and materials in the country or region, and facilitating knowledge and information exchange opportunities for the host government or institution. Maintaining regular communication with designated host country National Focal Points and the Country Engagement Coordinator of the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership to ensure alignment with ongoing activities and preparing periodic reports on the status of NBSAP implementation, including key milestones, lessons learned, and recommendations for improvement.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in environmental science, biodiversity conservation, natural resource management, or a related discipline. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) in combination with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. Additionally, at least seven years of relevant experience in biodiversity conservation, project management, facilitation, stakeholder engagement, or other relevant areas is required. A proven track record of working with government institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners is desirable, along with previous experience working with NBSAPs and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and other international biodiversity frameworks. Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills are essential, with the ability to act as a bridge and mobilize support across diverse stakeholders. Previous experience working for regional or international organizations is an advantage.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in environmental science, biodiversity conservation, natural resource management, or a related discipline. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of biodiversity and environmental management.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least seven years of relevant experience in biodiversity conservation, project management, facilitation, stakeholder engagement, or other relevant areas. This experience should include a proven track record of working with government institutions, civil society organizations, and international partners. Previous experience with NBSAPs and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), as well as other international biodiversity frameworks, is highly desirable. Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills are essential, as the role requires acting as a bridge and mobilizing support across diverse stakeholders. Experience working for regional or international organizations is considered an advantage.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are required for this position. Fluency in a second official UN language is desirable, as it would enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders and partners involved in biodiversity initiatives.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA), with a contract level of LICA Specialist-11 / ICSC-1

• The initial contract duration is one year, with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability. This position will be based in Yerevan, Armenia, and applicants must be nationals or residents of Armenia with a valid work permit to be eligible. UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes, and applications received after the closing date will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the selection process, which involves various assessments. UNOPS embraces diversity and is committed to equal employment opportunity, ensuring an inclusive working environment for its entire workforce. All personnel are responsible for performing their duties in accordance with the UN Charter and UNOPS Policies and Instructions, and recruitment is contingent on the results of background checks.