Consultant for Project Proposal Development

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. Established in 1972, UNEP has grown to become a key player in environmental governance, with a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to environmental issues. Its Ecosystems Division works with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and capacity development for the implementation of environmental policy, strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. UNEP’s engagement in the Greater Virunga Landscape (GVL) is expanding, particularly in the context of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, showcasing initiatives that make mountain ecosystems more resilient to support both people and unique upland wildlife.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for producing a fully developed, donor-ready project proposal aimed at mobilizing USD 23 million for restoration efforts in Volcanoes National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, as well as additional funding for restoration across the wider Greater Virunga Landscape (GVL). This position requires the consultant to engage with various stakeholders, review relevant documents, and develop comprehensive project proposals that align with the goals of the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. The consultant will work closely with the Programme Management Officer and will be expected to deliver high-quality proposals that meet donor requirements and facilitate funding for critical restoration projects in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will carry out the following activities under the guidance of the Programme Management Officer:

• Review relevant technical and strategic documents, including WWF corridor and restoration studies for the GVL, GVTC Transboundary Strategic Plan (2024–2033), and national restoration strategies.
• Engage stakeholders to confirm proposal concepts and ensure alignment with organizations such as UNEP, WWF, and national restoration focal points.
• Identify appropriate funding opportunities from sources like GEF-9, Green Climate Fund, and other bilateral donors.
• Develop at least two full project proposals, including a large-scale multi-country proposal and a medium-scale targeted restoration proposal.
• Prepare standard proposal components such as concept notes, theory of change, budget estimates, and risk analysis.
• Package and submit donor-ready materials, including project briefs and presentation decks. The consultant will report to the Programme Management Officer and will be evaluated based on the outputs delivered.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in environmental science, natural resource management, development studies, or related fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor's degree) combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. At least 7 years of experience in developing successful project proposals for multilateral and bilateral donors is required, along with demonstrated experience in ecosystem restoration and sustainable landscape management. Excellent proposal writing, budgeting, and stakeholder coordination skills are essential, as well as a strong understanding of donor priorities related to the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in environmental science, natural resource management, development studies, or related fields is required. A first-level university degree (bachelor's degree) may be accepted if combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, demonstrating the candidate's capability in the relevant field.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 7 years of experience in developing successful project proposals for multilateral and bilateral donors, such as GEF, GCF, EU, and USAID. Experience in ecosystem restoration, sustainable landscape management, or nature-based solutions is required. Additionally, experience working with government, NGO, and community stakeholders in East/Central Africa is desirable, as is a strong understanding of donor priorities and funding mechanisms related to the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of the French language is considered an asset, as it may enhance communication with various stakeholders and contribute to the effectiveness of the proposals being developed.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and expected to last for 6 months. The consultant will not be charged any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge fees for applications, interviews, or training. This role is crucial for mobilizing funding for restoration projects in the Greater Virunga Landscape, and the consultant will play a key role in ensuring that the proposals developed are of high quality and meet the expectations of potential donors.