Senior Environmental Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank is a global development cooperative established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. It consists of two main entities: the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA). Founded in 1944, the World Bank has grown to include 189 member countries and is recognized as the largest development bank in the world. Its mission is to reduce poverty and support development by providing loans, guarantees, risk management products, and advisory services to middle-income and creditworthy low-income countries. The organization plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to regional and global challenges, particularly in the areas of economic development and environmental sustainability. The Global Environment Facility (GEF), a multilateral family of funds under the World Bank, focuses on addressing critical environmental issues such as biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution, and has mobilized over $153 billion for environmental projects globally. The GEF Secretariat, which is part of the World Bank Group, employs approximately 100 staff members and aims to foster international cooperation in environmental management.

Job Overview:
The Senior Environmental Specialist position at the World Bank involves a significant role in managing and supporting the Global Environment Facility's (GEF) initiatives related to freshwater ecosystems. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing GEF support to countries in managing shared surface and groundwater resources, ensuring that these nations meet their commitments under various Multilateral Environmental Agreements. This role requires collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of environmental specialists, focusing on areas such as biodiversity, climate change, and land degradation. The Senior Environmental Specialist will engage with stakeholders at regional and country levels to optimize GEF investments and achieve global environmental benefits. The position demands a deep understanding of the complexities of international freshwater management and the ability to navigate the dynamics of GEF client countries. The ideal candidate will also contribute to the development and implementation of strategies that enhance the GEF's impact on freshwater conservation, ensuring that projects align with GEF programming strategies and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Environmental Specialist will undertake a variety of duties, including:

• Participating in the execution of the Programming Division's work programs, including resource programming and strategic dialogues with countries and regional teams.
• Managing the review process for project proposals seeking GEF Trust Fund financing, providing guidance on project development and preparation.
• Engaging in country dialogues and workshops to facilitate GEF's Country Engagement Strategy.
• Supporting the management of ongoing GEF projects through supervision, monitoring, and evaluation activities.
• Contributing to the development of results-based management frameworks and integrating knowledge management into operational processes.
• Representing the GEF at international forums and providing quality inputs to senior management on various strategic documents.
• Coordinating the IW transboundary freshwater portfolio and contributing to GEF replenishment processes.
• Supporting the development of thematic reports and engagement plans related to freshwater conservation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in a relevant field such as integrated water resource management, environmental sciences, or natural resources management, along with at least eight years of professional experience. Alternatively, a Ph.D. with five years of experience is acceptable. A strong background in freshwater conservation, particularly in Africa and Asia, is highly preferred. Candidates should demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the Global Environment Facility's operations and have experience managing transboundary freshwater projects. Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills are essential, as well as the ability to synthesize complex information and produce high-quality reports. Experience in engaging with diverse stakeholders, including governments and NGOs, is also required.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in integrated water resource management, environmental sciences, natural resources management, or a related discipline is required. A Ph.D. in a relevant field is preferred, particularly for candidates with fewer years of experience. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in environmental issues, particularly those related to freshwater resources.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of eight years of relevant experience in integrated water resource management or related fields, or five years of experience if they hold a Ph.D. Experience in managing freshwater projects, particularly in developing countries, is crucial. A proven track record of working with international organizations and understanding the complexities of multi-country cooperation on shared resources is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the role requires excellent verbal and written communication skills. Knowledge of additional UN languages, particularly French, Spanish, or Arabic, is considered an asset and is desirable for effective communication with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international recruitment role with a term duration of two years. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, life, and disability insurance, as well as a retirement plan and paid leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or disability. The role may require frequent travel to various global, regional, and national events related to GEF initiatives.