Consultant for Cool Coalition

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is recognized as the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established to promote the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The organization operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing pressing environmental challenges. UNEP's Cities Unit specifically focuses on integrated approaches across various sectors to drive low-carbon, resilient, inclusive, and pollution-free urban development. This includes thematic areas such as built environment and urban infrastructure, cooling and urban energy, urban food systems, circularity, and nature-based solutions. UNEP is committed to accelerating the global transition to energy-efficient and climate-friendly cooling, which is essential for improving the quality of life and health of people while minimizing environmental impacts. The Cool Coalition, established in 2019 as a transformative initiative of the UN Secretary-General’s Climate Action Summit, is a global multi-stakeholder network that connects key actors from government, cities, international organizations, businesses, finance, academia, and civil society to facilitate knowledge exchange, advocacy, and joint action towards a rapid global transition to efficient and climate-friendly cooling. The Coalition aims to support countries in taking comprehensive and integrated action on sustainable cooling, thereby delivering on the Paris Agreement, Kigali Amendment, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The consultant will work under the guidance and supervision of the Head of Secretariat as a coordinator for the Cool Coalition. The primary functions of this position include supporting the development of the 2025 Global Cooling Watch report, which is set to be launched ahead of COP30 in Brazil. This involves project management, stakeholder engagement, coordination of inputs, oversight of survey design and delivery, data analysis, and the development of recommendations and authorship where relevant. Additionally, the consultant will support G20 Presidency engagement by preparing short papers as inputs into working group documents, presentations, case studies for G20 publications, and briefings related to cooling, buildings, and energy. The role also includes advancing pledge implementation work packages through needs assessments. The consultant will play a crucial role in ensuring that the Cool Coalition meets its objectives and contributes effectively to global discussions on cooling and climate action.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties and responsibilities will encompass a wide range of tasks, including but not limited to: 1) Coordinating the development of the 2025 Global Cooling Watch report, ensuring that it aligns with the objectives of the Cool Coalition and addresses critical issues related to adaptation and resilience to extreme heat. 2) Engaging with various stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, and industry players, to gather inputs and insights for the report and other related documents. 3) Overseeing the design and delivery of surveys that will inform the report's findings and recommendations. 4) Conducting data analysis to derive meaningful insights that can guide policy recommendations and actions. 5) Preparing short papers and presentations for G20 meetings, ensuring that they are well-researched and relevant to the discussions on cooling, buildings, and energy. 6) Supporting the implementation of the Global Cooling Pledge by working with countries to assess their needs and develop strategies for effective implementation. 7) Contributing to the overall advocacy efforts of the Cool Coalition by participating in meetings, workshops, and other events as required. 8) Collaborating with other team members and stakeholders to ensure that all activities are aligned with the Coalition's goals and objectives.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree in economics, environmental science, or engineering. Candidates must possess at least 15 years of professional experience related to energy and climate policy, specifically in refrigeration, air conditioning, and related cooling solutions. A strong background in working with international stakeholder groups and industry players in the HVAC and energy industry is essential. Additionally, candidates should have a technical understanding of cooling products, including their environmental and energy impacts, as well as knowledge of product development and innovation needed to reduce environmental impacts. Experience in preparing large multi-stakeholder publications in the energy or climate arena is also highly desirable, along with prior experience working with governments on energy and climate policy.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as economics, environmental science, or engineering. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of energy and climate policy, as well as the technical aspects of cooling solutions and their environmental impacts.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically at least 15 years of professional experience in areas related to energy and climate policy. This includes expertise in refrigeration, air conditioning, and related cooling solutions. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with international stakeholder groups and industry players, demonstrating their ability to navigate complex environments and foster collaboration among diverse actors. Experience in preparing large multi-stakeholder publications in the energy or climate arena is also essential, as is prior experience working with governments on energy and climate policy.

Languages:
While specific language requirements are not mentioned, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the role and the need to communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not explicitly stated as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and is expected to last for a duration of 12 months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview meetings, processing, or training. Furthermore, the United Nations does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts, ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process.