National Professional Officer

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 to serve as an authoritative advocate for the global environment, UNEP works with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and advisory services for the implementation of environmental policy. The organization aims to strengthen the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition, ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into national and international development strategies.

Job Overview:
The position is primarily focused on the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the project titled 'True Value Accounting: Making the Economic Case for Food Systems Transformation in India and Kenya.' The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Head of the Economics of Nature Unit within the Biodiversity and Land Branch of the Ecosystems Division. The role involves collaborating with various stakeholders, including government ministries and research institutes, to promote sustainable food systems transformation in India. The officer will be responsible for analyzing domestic public and private sector opportunities, providing strategic support, and facilitating collaboration among partners. Additionally, the position requires the preparation of written outputs, participation in consultative meetings, and conducting outreach activities, including training workshops and presentations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the National Professional Officer include participating in the development and evaluation of the TEEB project, monitoring and analyzing program development, and identifying issues that require corrective actions. The officer will provide strategic support to implementing entities, facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, and identify challenges and opportunities for policy mainstreaming. Responsibilities also include assisting in policy development, preparing various written outputs, providing support to meetings and conferences, reviewing deliverables from partners, conducting outreach activities, and participating in field missions. The officer will coordinate budget-related activities, develop strategic plans for the project, collect and analyze data for insights, and ensure documentation of requirements for data analysis.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of sustainable food systems transformation, environmental economics, and ecosystem valuation. The role requires the ability to analyze and interpret data, conduct independent research, and manage conflicting priorities. Professionalism, effective communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders are essential. The officer should demonstrate a commitment to gender perspectives and the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Ecological Economics, Environmental Economics, Resource Economics, Agricultural Economics, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project or program management focused on environmental economic valuation methodologies is required. Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and spatial tools for modeling ecosystem services is also necessary. At least two years of project management experience related to agri-food issues is required, with experience in agri-food systems transformation in India being desirable. Additionally, two or more years of experience in data analytics or a related area is preferred.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations Secretariat, but proficiency in French is not mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term limited position with an initial appointment period of one year, subject to availability of funds and budgetary approval. The position is open to Indian nationals only, and candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. If no suitable local candidate is identified, Indian nationals residing elsewhere may be considered, with the candidate responsible for any travel and relocation costs. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its workforce.