Consultant for UNEP FI

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 serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and has a mission to encourage decision-makers in government, local authorities, and industry to adopt sustainable practices. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of individuals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. UNEP FI, a strategic partnership between the United Nations 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.

Job Overview:
The consultant will work closely with UNEP FI’s Secretariat to support its mission of accelerating the development of financial institutions that integrate sustainability and contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The focus will be on Nature activities in the Asia-Pacific region, acting as a liaison between the Nature Team and the Regional Team. The consultant will report to the Nature Team and will be responsible for strengthening UNEP FI's implementation support for industry frameworks, assisting banking and insurance sectors in integrating sustainability into their products and services. The role involves engaging with financial institutions in India and other countries in the region, supporting outreach and stakeholder engagement, and facilitating capacity-building activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key tasks, including:

• Supporting the development and implementation of a work plan for the Asia-Pacific region.
• Engaging with financial institutions in India and other countries to enhance outreach and stakeholder engagement.
• Assisting in updating and implementing the work plan and capacity-building activities aligned with UNEP FI’s global work programme.
• Supporting financial institutions in integrating Nature into their risk assessments and business opportunities.
• Facilitating relationships with UNEP FI members to increase banking and insurance membership.
• Maintaining regular communication with UNEP FI members through emails, conference calls, and in-person meetings, and updating the APAC regional section on UNEP FI’s website.
• Supporting the adoption and implementation of the Principles for Responsible Banking and Principles for Sustainable Insurance in the APAC region through peer exchanges and knowledge sharing. The consultant will be supervised by the Head of UNEP FI and will report directly to the Governance and Membership Team Lead, collaborating closely with the APAC UNEP FI Regional Lead.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master’s degree in sustainability, environment, finance, banking, economics, education, professional training and development, communications, international studies, project management, business administration, or related fields. A bachelor’s degree may be accepted in lieu of a master’s degree, provided the candidate has at least 5 years of relevant experience. Additionally, candidates should have a strong background in sustainable finance, stakeholder engagement, and project management, with proven skills in managing multiple stakeholders effectively.

Educational Background:
A master’s degree in a relevant field such as sustainability, environment, finance, banking, economics, or related disciplines is required. A bachelor’s degree may be considered if accompanied by significant professional experience, specifically a minimum of 5 years in relevant roles.

Experience:
At least three years of professional experience within national or international organizations, NGOs, or the private sector is required. Experience working with banks and financial institutions in India is essential, along with a track record of successfully coordinating complex, multi-stakeholder projects. Experience in global contexts or with international organizations is considered an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory, as it is the working language of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of other United Nations languages is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and is expected to last for 12 months. The consultant will not be charged any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and the United Nations does not require information regarding applicants’ bank accounts.