Programme Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations University (UNU) is an international community of scholars dedicated to policy-oriented research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination aimed at furthering the principles of the United Nations Charter. Established over four decades ago, UNU has become a prominent think tank for impartial research on critical global issues such as human survival, conflict prevention, sustainable development, and welfare. With a workforce of more than 400 researchers across 12 countries, UNU's initiatives encompass the full spectrum of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating policy-relevant knowledge to foster positive global change. The organization collaborates with over 200 UN agencies, universities, and research institutions worldwide, reinforcing its commitment to addressing pressing global challenges. For more information, visit http://unu.edu.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate position at UNU-IAS involves supporting the International Partnership for the Satoyama Initiative (IPSI) and the Biodiversity and Development Programme (BDS). The role requires operational management of IPSI, including organizing global conferences and meetings, managing data, and ensuring effective communication with stakeholders. The Programme Associate will also assist in implementing the IPSI Strategy and Plan of Action for 2023-2030, providing administrative support, and facilitating outreach activities. Additionally, the role includes supporting research and capacity development activities, monitoring project schedules, and ensuring timely deliverables. The Programme Associate will work closely with the Senior Programme Coordinator and contribute to the overall mission of UNU-IAS in promoting sustainability and biodiversity conservation.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the operation and management of the International Partnership for the Satoyama Initiative (IPSI) by organizing global conferences, meetings, and workshops, ensuring effective communication and coordination with members and stakeholders.
• Provide operational support for the implementation of the IPSI Strategy and Plan of Action 2023-2030, including administrative tasks such as contract management and procurement, and assist in organizing outreach activities and events.
• Assist in the research and capacity development activities of the BDS programme, including monitoring schedules, managing contracts, and coordinating outreach efforts to promote BDS outputs.
• Ensure project support for the BDS programme by processing procurement contracts, monitoring deliverables, and liaising with consultants and service providers.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor, maintaining positive relationships with internal and external stakeholders and ensuring timely administrative support for assigned projects.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree in biodiversity, environment, international development, international relations, or a related field. A Bachelor’s degree should be accompanied by 5 years of progressively responsible experience, while a Master’s degree requires 2 years of relevant experience. Familiarity with biodiversity conservation issues and experience in organizing conferences and managing logistical arrangements are essential. Knowledge of the UN governance structure is advantageous, along with strong computer and organizational skills, analytical abilities, and the capacity to manage multiple tasks effectively. Candidates should demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a diverse, multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree in a relevant field such as biodiversity, environment, international development, or international relations is required for this position. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of biodiversity and sustainable development.

Experience:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience or a Master’s degree with at least 2 years of progressively responsible experience in a related area. Experience working with international organizations or on major international initiatives is considered an asset. Candidates should have a demonstrated interest in biodiversity conservation and experience in coordinating conferences and managing logistical arrangements.

Languages:
Fluency in both oral and written English and Japanese is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The successful candidate will be employed under a national Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract with UNU, which offers a competitive compensation package, including a monthly net salary ranging from JPY 413,167 to 456,417, depending on experience and qualifications. Benefits include 30 days of annual leave and a health insurance scheme. The initial contract duration is one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and organizational needs. The total duration on a PSA contract with UNU may not exceed six years, and the mandatory retirement age for PSA holders is 65 years. Applications are encouraged from diverse backgrounds, including women and candidates from developing countries.