Senior Advisor for Sustainability Risk Integration

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, advocating for sustainable practices and policies across various sectors. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, UNEP operates in more than 150 countries, collaborating with governments, civil society, and the private sector to address pressing environmental challenges. UNEP FI, a strategic partnership between UNEP and over 500 banks, insurers, and investors, has been shaping the international sustainable finance agenda for over 32 years, setting global standards and fostering a network of leading financial institutions committed to sustainability.

Job Overview:
The Senior Advisor for Sustainability Risk Integration will play a critical role in supporting the UNEP FI's Banking Programme, which aims to assist member banks in implementing the Principles for Responsible Banking through a Responsible Banking Journey. This position involves providing strategic advice, facilitating peer learning, and developing case studies to enhance client engagement on sustainability and transition. The advisor will work closely with financial institutions to operationalize sustainability frameworks and prepare for regulatory measures related to sustainability risk. The role requires a deep understanding of sustainability risks and the ability to integrate these considerations into financial decision-making processes, thereby promoting sustainable practices across the financial sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Advisor will be responsible for delivering the Sustainability Risk Integration Programme in collaboration with the Risk Centre and external partners. Key responsibilities include developing project proposals, managing working group sessions, and ensuring that the Risk Centre's programme aligns with the implementation of the Principles for Responsible Banking and Sustainable Insurance. The advisor will support the delivery of guidance and capacity-building initiatives for UNEP FI members, assist in readiness for sustainability risk regulatory measures, and promote UNEP FI outputs at events. Additionally, the advisor will engage with financial institutions to gather insights on sustainability risk management and client engagement, fostering a network of practitioners within the banking sector.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in law, economics, finance, environmental studies, international relations, business administration, or a related field. A bachelor's degree may be accepted if accompanied by at least nine years of relevant experience. The position requires a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in the financial services sector, law, environmental science, commercial consulting, data analytics, or applied academic research focused on risk management or sustainable finance. Familiarity with data science and technology for advancing risk management is advantageous, as is experience with sustainability issues relevant to micro/macroprudential risk management.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant field is required for this position. Candidates with a bachelor's degree may be considered if they have extensive experience in the relevant sectors. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in understanding the complexities of sustainability risks and their implications for the financial sector.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least seven years of experience in roles that involve risk management, sustainable finance, or environmental science. This experience should include working with financial institutions and understanding the assessment, management, and disclosure of environmental and sustainability risks. Experience in data analytics and technology applications in risk management is also beneficial, as is familiarity with regulatory frameworks related to sustainability in finance.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of other United Nations languages is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote and is expected to last for 12 months. The consultant will work under the supervision of the Head of UNEP FI and will report directly to the Programme Management Officer and the Head of Banking. The role is designed for a senior-level advisor, indicating a high level of responsibility and expertise required. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.