Consultant for Climate Change Adaptation

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 encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to addressing global environmental challenges. UNEP's mission includes promoting increased action and investment in climate change adaptation, particularly through nature-based solutions, and supporting developing countries in accessing funding for climate change adaptation needs.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for completing outputs related to sustainability, knowledge management, and learning, specifically producing the updated 2025-2026 GEF Project implementation Progress report. This role involves collaborating with various stakeholders to assess and analyze the effectiveness of urban ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) strategies in the Asia Pacific region. The consultant will work closely with the Chief of Climate Change Adaptation Unit and will be expected to engage in extensive research, data collection, and analysis to inform policy briefs and exit strategies for the project. The consultant will also be tasked with disseminating findings and lessons learned from the project to enhance future programming and adaptation efforts in urban settings.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties include conducting a cost-benefit analysis of urban EbA interventions, reconstructing co-financing history for the project, developing exit strategies for sustainability, producing policy briefs, and disseminating learning outcomes. Specific responsibilities involve assessing research findings, tailoring terms of reference for cost-benefit analysis, validating urban EbA structures, and identifying partners for collaboration. The consultant will also hold stakeholder consultations, develop policy briefs on city-level adaptation planning, and organize webinars to share findings with relevant participants. Additionally, the consultant will compile an integrated final report that encompasses all tasks and findings from the assignment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in economic or social sciences and have at least 7 years of professional experience in international development. A strong track record in climate change adaptation, national or sub-national policy and planning processes, and development issues at the city level is desirable. Experience in developing policy briefs and working in the Southeast Asia region is also preferred. The consultant should demonstrate excellent analytical and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in economic or social sciences is required for this position. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of climate change adaptation and the socio-economic factors influencing urban resilience.

Experience:
The consultant should have a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in international development, with a focus on climate change adaptation. Experience working on national or sub-national policy and planning processes, as well as development issues at the city level, is highly desirable. A proven track record in developing policy briefs and familiarity with the Southeast Asia region will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the Southeast Asia region may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The consultant is expected to conduct a two-week mission in each of the three countries involved in the project to establish dialogues and gather information. The contract duration includes provisions for travel and organization of mission travel, with a total of 9 days allocated for these activities. It is important for the consultant to coordinate with the monitoring expert to assess outcome target attainment. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and fair hiring process.