Consultant for UNEP FI

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 been at the forefront of environmental governance and policy-making, working with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental challenges. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, UNEP operates in more than 150 countries, collaborating with governments, civil society, and the private sector to promote sustainable development and environmental protection. UNEP FI, a strategic partnership between UNEP and over 500 banks, insurers, and investors, has been shaping the international sustainable finance agenda for over 32 years, setting global standards and fostering a global network of leading financial institutions.

Job Overview:
The consultant will support UNEP FI’s Regional Lead for Africa & the Middle East in implementing UNEP FI’s strategy to mobilize sustainable finance in these regions. This role involves engaging a diverse range of financial institutions, including commercial banks, asset managers, insurers, and multi-lateral development banks, to integrate sustainability into financial market practices. The consultant will assist in promoting the Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) and the Principles for Sustainable Insurance (PSI), which are pivotal frameworks for advancing sustainability in the financial sector. The consultant will also be responsible for relationship management with UNEP FI members, facilitating outreach to potential signatories, and supporting capacity-building initiatives to enhance understanding and implementation of sustainable finance principles. The position requires a proactive approach to developing partnerships, coordinating events, and maintaining communication with stakeholders to foster a collaborative environment for sustainable finance initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will carry out a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: supporting the AME Regional Lead in coordinating activities across the MENA and Sub-Saharan Africa regions; developing and implementing outreach and coordination plans; maintaining contact information for members and stakeholders; facilitating relationships with UNEP FI members; managing regular communications; raising awareness of sustainable finance; supporting the adoption of PRB and PSI; organizing workshops and webinars; assisting in the preparation of missions by UNEP delegates; and contributing to the development of regional work plans. The consultant will also be responsible for maintaining UNEP FI’s regional web page, coordinating events, and ensuring effective communication of members’ news and priorities. Additionally, the consultant will support fundraising efforts and the implementation of donor-funded activities and projects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in international relations, business, economics, finance, sustainable development, or a related environmental field. A master’s degree may be accepted in lieu of a bachelor’s degree, provided the candidate has at least three years of relevant experience. The position requires at least five years of experience working within the financial services sector or in sustainable finance, with a strong background in program management within international organizations, NGOs, or consultancies. Experience in public-private sector partnerships, particularly in sustainable finance or corporate responsibility, is essential. Candidates should also have experience in event management, public speaking, and writing/editing technical reports.

Educational Background:
A bachelor’s degree in international relations, business, economics, finance, sustainable development, or an environmental field is required. A master’s degree may be considered in lieu of a bachelor’s degree if the candidate has three years of related experience. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of sustainable finance and the regulatory frameworks that govern it.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of experience in the financial services sector or sustainable finance. Candidates should have program management experience in international organizations, NGOs, or consultancies, with a focus on public-private sector partnerships in the sustainable finance field. Experience in event management and public speaking is also desirable, as is experience in writing and editing technical reports.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory as it is the working language of UNEP FI. Fluency in French is required for the position, and proficiency in Arabic is considered an asset. These language skills are essential for effective communication with stakeholders across the Africa and Middle East regions.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and expected to last for three months. The consultant will work under the overall supervision of the Head of UNEP FI and report directly to the Programme Management Officer. The role is full-time, and the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Candidates should be aware that the UN does not request information regarding applicants’ bank accounts.