Project Manager for True Value Accounting

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. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and works with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and advisory services for the implementation of environmental policy. The organization focuses on strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. UNEP's Ecosystems Division plays a crucial role in these efforts, particularly in the Economics of Nature Unit, which is dedicated to the economic aspects of environmental management and policy implementation.

Job Overview:
The position of Project Manager for True Value Accounting is centered on the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of projects that advocate for food systems transformation. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Head of the Economics of Nature Unit and will be responsible for various tasks including the development and evaluation of the project 'True Value Accounting: Making the Economic Case for Food Systems Transformation in India and Kenya'. This role involves analyzing program/project development, identifying issues, and proposing corrective actions. The Project Manager will also provide strategic support to entities involved in promoting food systems transformation and facilitate collaboration among various stakeholders, including government ministries and research institutes. The position requires a proactive approach to identifying challenges and opportunities for policy mainstreaming related to food systems transformation, as well as assisting in policy development and conducting evaluations and research activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Project Manager include: participating in the development and evaluation of the True Value Accounting project; monitoring and analyzing program/project development; identifying and addressing problems; liaising with relevant parties; providing strategic support to implementing entities; facilitating collaboration among stakeholders; identifying challenges and opportunities for policy mainstreaming; assisting in policy development; preparing various written outputs; providing support to meetings and conferences; reviewing deliverables from implementing partners; conducting outreach activities; leading field missions; developing a roadmap for policy implementation; coordinating budget and funding activities; and collecting and analyzing data to provide insights for decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of program management, policy analysis, and stakeholder coordination. They should demonstrate the ability to analyze and interpret data, identify issues, and resolve problems. The role requires excellent organizational skills, the ability to manage conflicting priorities, and a commitment to gender perspectives in all areas of work. Professionalism, teamwork, and effective planning and organizing skills are essential for success in this position.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in Economics, Ecological Economics, Environmental Economics, Resource Economics, Agricultural Economics, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in project or program management related to environmental economic valuation methodologies is required. Additionally, at least two years of experience with Geographic Information System (GIS) and spatial tools for modeling ecosystem services is necessary. Candidates should also have at least four years of project management experience related to agri-food issues, and experience working with the UN system or similar international organizations is desirable. Experience in data analytics or related areas is also a plus.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, with a required proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered a good to have language, but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The appointment against this position is for an initial period of one year and may be subject to extension. The position is classified as a fixed-term appointment limited to the entity. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.