Consultant for Air Quality Action Forum

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 has been at the forefront of environmental governance and advocacy, working to address pressing global environmental issues. With a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. The organization focuses on various thematic areas, including climate action, nature conservation, and pollution management, and collaborates with governments, civil society, and the private sector to implement its initiatives effectively.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) India Office by developing and strengthening partnerships with stakeholders involved in the Air Quality Action Forum (AQAF). This position requires a strategic approach to engage with various stakeholders working on air pollution in India, ensuring that efforts are gender-responsive and socially inclusive. The consultant will be responsible for preparing outcome reports and implementing a communication and awareness strategy for AQAF. The role is essential in facilitating coordination among stakeholders to address the significant issue of air pollution, which has severe implications for public health, agriculture, and the environment in India. The consultant will report directly to the Head of the UNEP India Country Office and will support the Chemical and Pollution Action sub-programme under UNEP's Medium-Term Strategy (MTS).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's primary duties will include:

• Developing new partnerships and strengthening existing ones within the Air Quality Action Forum (AQAF) to align with UNEP's objectives and donor expectations.
• Engaging with stakeholders involved in air pollution management in India, utilizing gender-responsive and socially inclusive approaches to prepare comprehensive outcome reports.
• Creating and implementing a strategic communication and awareness plan for AQAF to enhance stakeholder engagement and public awareness.
• Coordinating with government officials, civil society organizations, research institutions, inter-governmental organizations, and private sector entities to foster collaboration and resource sharing for effective air quality management.
• Reporting on the progress and outcomes of initiatives to the Head of UNEP India Country Office, ensuring that all deliverables meet the quality standards set by UNEP.
• Facilitating workshops, consultations, and stakeholder engagements to capture feedback and promote collaborative efforts in air quality management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in arts, science, or communication. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree in similar fields combined with at least 7 years of relevant experience may be considered equivalent. A minimum of 5 years of experience in designing and delivering projects is required, along with at least 3 years of work experience in an international organization focusing on communication and partnerships. Extensive experience in communications, outreach, and public relations is essential, particularly within a development agency or leading a communication team in a reputable organization with global exposure. Experience in establishing strategic partnerships with philanthropic organizations to support multi-stakeholder forums on air pollution is highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate proficiency in developing communication strategies, advocacy plans, and media engagement related to environmental issues.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced degree in a relevant field such as arts, science, or communication. A bachelor's degree in similar areas, combined with significant professional experience, may also be acceptable. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in environmental studies, communication strategies, or related disciplines that support the consultant's ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders and manage complex projects.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in project design and delivery, with at least 3 years of experience in an international organization focusing on communication and partnerships. Experience in a multicultural environment, particularly within the United Nations system, is desirable. The consultant should have a proven track record of working with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society, and private sector organizations, to achieve common goals in air quality management and environmental protection.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another official United Nations language is considered an advantage. Additionally, working knowledge of Hindi is necessary to effectively engage with local stakeholders and communities in India.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based in India and is expected to last for 15 months. The consultant will work full-time and is expected to coordinate with various stakeholders to achieve the objectives of the Air Quality Action Forum. 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 is committed to transparency and does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.