National Consultant to support integration of nature-based climate solutions and gender equality

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) Vietnam, which is part of the UNDP global network. UNDP was established in 1965 and has since been working in over 170 countries and territories to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. The organization focuses on helping countries achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women. UNDP Vietnam specifically addresses local challenges and works closely with the government and other stakeholders to implement development programs that align with national priorities.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant position is aimed at supporting the integration of nature-based climate solutions (NBCS) and gender equality within ecotourism and rural agricultural tourism initiatives in Vietnam. The consultant will be responsible for reviewing the current status of these initiatives and providing actionable recommendations for their improvement. This role involves analyzing potential models for nature-based ecotourism and agricultural tourism products, ensuring they align with resource conservation and sustainable livelihoods. The consultant will also develop gender-sensitive knowledge products that incorporate environmental safeguards and social considerations into tourism models. A significant aspect of this role is to facilitate the establishment of Communities of Practice (CoPs) that focus on women-led initiatives in ecotourism, ensuring that women from rural and ethnic minority communities are actively involved in governance and decision-making processes. The consultant will also support the development of business plans that enhance sustainable livelihoods and local resilience in the tourism sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a comprehensive review of the current operations and management of nature-based ecotourism and rural agricultural tourism initiatives. Key responsibilities include:

• Analyzing existing models and developing new ones that link tourism with resource conservation and sustainable livelihoods.
• Creating gender-sensitive knowledge products that address environmental and social considerations in tourism.
• Leading the design and establishment of women-led Communities of Practice (CoPs) that engage various stakeholders in ecotourism.
• Supporting the development of bankable business plans for eco-tourism ventures.
• Promoting women's leadership and participation in decision-making processes within the CoPs.
• Facilitating knowledge exchange and capacity-building initiatives to share best practices in sustainable tourism.
• Developing a sustainability and action plan for the CoPs to ensure ongoing collaboration and innovation in the sector.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in sustainable tourism, gender equality, and environmental management. They should have demonstrated experience in developing and implementing nature-based solutions and possess excellent analytical and communication skills. Familiarity with UNDP's Social and Environmental Standards is essential. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of working with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, community representatives, and private sector actors in the tourism industry.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a Master's degree in Environmental Science, Sustainable Development, Gender Studies, or a related field is required. Candidates with additional certifications in project management or sustainable tourism will be considered favorably. A strong academic background that includes research and practical experience in the relevant fields is essential.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of professional experience in sustainable tourism, gender equality initiatives, or related fields. Experience working with international organizations, particularly in the context of UNDP projects, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a history of successfully managing projects that involve multiple stakeholders and complex environmental and social issues.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Vietnamese is highly desirable, as it will facilitate communication with local stakeholders. Additional language skills relevant to the local context will be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is expected to commence in January 2026 and will last until August 202

• The consultant will work on a full-time basis, and preference will be given to women candidates who meet the technical qualifications. The position is open to both national and international applicants, and the compensation will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. Interested candidates must submit their proposals through the UNDP supplier portal by the specified deadline.