Project Associate - Biodiversity Finance

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a prominent organization within the UN Development System, dedicated to sustainable development. Established to integrate collective action towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UNDP operates globally, leveraging local knowledge and global perspectives to address pressing development challenges. The organization emphasizes its commitment to eradicating poverty and supporting countries in their sustainable development pathways, as outlined in its 2022-2025 Strategic Plan. UNDP's Global Policy Network (GPN) plays a crucial role in this mission, providing technical expertise and promoting integrated governance approaches to tackle issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and social inequalities. UNDP's initiatives, including the Biodiversity Finance Initiative, aim to enhance biodiversity finance tools and solutions, facilitating countries in achieving their biodiversity and sustainable development targets. The organization operates in numerous countries, fostering partnerships and collaboration to implement impactful projects.

Job Overview:
The Project Associate - Biodiversity Finance will play a vital role in supporting the implementation of the GEF8 Umbrella programme, specifically focusing on the development of the first National Biodiversity Finance Plan in Suriname. This position involves collaborating with a national team, including a Policy Expert and a Project Support Associate, to produce critical documents such as the Biodiversity Expenditure Review (BER) and the Financial Needs Assessment (FNA). The Project Associate will be responsible for collecting and analyzing budgeting data related to biodiversity expenditures across various sectors, including government, NGOs, and the private sector. The role requires a strong understanding of biodiversity finance mechanisms and the ability to contribute to feasibility studies for priority finance mechanisms. The Project Associate will also support project planning, implementation, and monitoring, ensuring compliance with UNDP policies and procedures while promoting gender equality in project activities. This position is essential for advancing biodiversity finance initiatives and ensuring effective project delivery in alignment with national and global biodiversity goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support the Biodiversity Finance project team in effective project planning and implementation, including compiling information for work plans and budgets, ensuring quality delivery by consultants, and maintaining compliance with UNDP policies.
• Assist in establishing partnerships and resource mobilization efforts by maintaining contacts with relevant stakeholders, updating databases, and ensuring effective communication with partners.
• Contribute to monitoring, evaluation, and reporting on project progress, including implementing the project monitoring system and analyzing data for audit purposes.
• Monitor project expenditures and commitments, providing finance-related information to support implementation and recommending corrective actions as necessary.
• Facilitate knowledge building and sharing by participating in training, organizing briefings, and disseminating lessons learned within the organization and regionally.
• Perform additional duties as required to ensure the efficient functioning of the project and the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience with a high school diploma or 4 years with a bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field. Proven experience in supporting analyses and drafting reports related to policies and public finance is essential. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to prepare publications and presentations, as well as proficiency in key software packages, particularly MS Office. Familiarity with project management and communication skills is desirable, along with exposure to environmental and climate issues, biodiversity, or public finance. Knowledge of the functioning of the government of Suriname is an asset, as is the ability to respond positively to critical feedback.

Educational Background:
A secondary education is required, with a university degree (bachelor’s degree) in Finance, Public Administration, Economics, Business Administration, Management, or a related field being advantageous but not mandatory. Candidates with relevant educational backgrounds will be given due consideration during the selection process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in Finance, Economics, Administration, Management, or a related field for candidates with a high school diploma. For those with a bachelor's degree, a minimum of 4 years of relevant work experience is required. This experience should include working with international and national experts and institutions, as well as supporting analyses and drafting reports related to public finance and policies.

Languages:
Fluency in Dutch and English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Suriname, specifically in Paramaribo. The role is part of the National Project Management Unit (NPMU) and will involve collaboration with a dedicated team, including an Environment Policy Specialist and various consultants. UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and values diversity, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and adheres to strict standards against harassment and discrimination.