BIOFIN Environmental Finance Officer – Biodiversity and Green Finance

Job Posting Organization:
The Biodiversity Finance Initiative (BIOFIN) is a global project implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It has been established to support countries in measuring biodiversity expenditures, assessing financial needs, and identifying suitable finance solutions to achieve national biodiversity targets. BIOFIN operates with financial support from various governments including Flanders, Germany, the EU, Belgium, Norway, and Switzerland. The initiative aims to integrate biodiversity considerations into financial decision-making, addressing the systemic risks biodiversity loss poses to financial markets and economic stability. The project is currently active in multiple countries, including Botswana, where it collaborates with local ministries to promote green finance.

Job Overview:
The BIOFIN Environmental Finance Officer will play a crucial role in integrating biodiversity into financial sector policies and investment strategies. This position involves conducting advanced research and data analysis to inform policy formulation on biodiversity finance, as well as providing expert advisory support to engage stakeholders in the financial sector. The officer will lead consultations on sustainable finance frameworks and policy development, focusing on innovative financing instruments and market-based solutions for biodiversity conservation. The role also includes capacity building and knowledge management, ensuring that stakeholders are equipped with the necessary tools and understanding to advance Botswana's green finance agenda. The officer will work under the guidance of the BIOFIN Country Project Lead and Senior Public Finance Expert, contributing to the overall mission of integrating biodiversity into financial decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct advanced research and data analysis to inform policy formulation on biodiversity finance, integrating insights on biodiversity loss, climate change, land degradation, and sustainable financing mechanisms.
• Provide expert advisory support to the BIOFIN Botswana Project Lead and Senior Public Finance Expert in engaging financial sector stakeholders, including government agencies, multilateral institutions, development banks, private investors, and academia.
• Prepare high-level reports and policy documents for submission to key stakeholders, including the BIOFIN Global Office, UNDP Country Office, and the Government of Botswana.
• Lead consultations on sustainable finance frameworks, including biodiversity bonds, carbon pricing, and blended finance approaches.
• Develop innovative financing instruments and market-based solutions for biodiversity conservation.
• Design and deliver expert-level training workshops and technical support for policymakers and financial institutions.
• Ensure strategic alignment of project planning with global and regional best practices in environmental finance.
• Engage in high-level dialogues and knowledge-sharing platforms at national, regional, and international levels.
• Capture lessons learned and disseminate best practices in biodiversity finance.

Required Qualifications:

• Advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Environmental Finance, Sustainable Development, Economics, Public Finance, Environmental Policy, or related field is required.
• A first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the areas stated above, in combination with an additional two years of qualifying experience will be considered in lieu of the advanced university degree.
• Proven experience and sound understanding of key software packages (MS Office) is required.
• Desired skills include experience in engaging with financial institutions and government agencies on green finance policy development, public finance management, and economic valuation of ecosystems.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Environmental Finance, Sustainable Development, Economics, Public Finance, or Environmental Policy. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) combined with two years of relevant professional experience will also be considered. This educational background is essential to ensure the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and analytical skills to perform the duties of the position effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in environmental finance, biodiversity finance, public finance, climate finance, or sustainable investment strategies for candidates with a bachelor's degree. Those with a master's degree are not required to have prior professional work experience. The experience should include engaging with financial institutions, government agencies, and international development organizations, as well as a strong understanding of biodiversity finance mechanisms and sustainable investment strategies.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, as well as fluency in the national language of the duty station, Setswana. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and for the preparation of reports and policy documents that cater to both local and international audiences.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of a project that may involve contract types defined by tiers, with specific eligibility criteria based on the candidate's current employment status with UNDP or related organizations. The role is expected to be full-time, and candidates may be selected from a pool of applicants for similar positions at the same grade level. UNDP is committed to diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. The organization also emphasizes the importance of creating a workplace free from harassment and discrimination.