Programme Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established to promote 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. The organization focuses on encouraging decision-makers in government, local authorities, and industry to develop and adopt policies, strategies, and practices that promote sustainable consumption and production patterns. UNEP operates in multiple countries, working towards efficient use of natural resources and safe management of chemicals, contributing to mutually supportive trade and environmental policies. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity.

Job Overview:
The Programme Management Officer position is located within the Industry and Economy Division, specifically in the Chemicals and Health Branch, Global Environment Facility Chemicals and Waste Unit (GEF C&W) at the Nairobi duty station. The incumbent will be responsible for leading the development and supervision of GEF projects focused on persistent organic pollutants (POPs) wastes and electronics, among other themes. This role requires the identification, development, and approval of high-quality new projects that align with UNEP's strategic priorities and respond to the needs expressed by governments and partners. The officer will establish and maintain the legal and operational delivery structure for projects, ensuring compliance with fiduciary standards and supporting project closure. Additionally, the officer will contribute to the UNEP High Impact Sector Team and electronics work areas, providing technical guidance and supporting private sector engagement. Data collection and analysis will also be a key function, enabling data-driven planning and decision-making.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and supervision of GEF projects related to POPs wastes and electronics, including: - Identifying, developing, and obtaining approval for new projects in line with UNEP's strategic priorities. - Establishing legal and operational structures for project delivery, including preparing legal agreements and conducting due diligence assessments. - Supervising Executing Agencies to ensure project delivery meets agreed targets and compliance standards. - Providing quality assurance for technical outputs and deliverables, including reviewing reports and leading corrective actions when necessary.
• Support the operation and direction of the UNEP High Impact Sector Team by: - Contributing technical guidance to UNEP Electronics projects. - Aligning GEF project inputs with UNEP publications and communication materials. - Engaging with private sector partners to enhance cooperation and knowledge sharing.
• Collect and analyze data to identify trends and provide insights through data visualization methods for effective planning and reporting.
• Perform other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in chemistry, environmental sciences, environmental management, waste management, earth sciences, or a related field. A first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in the specified fields, combined with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable. Certification in Project Management is also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as chemistry, environmental sciences, environmental management, waste management, or earth sciences is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in the specified fields, along with two additional years of qualifying experience, may be accepted. Completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible work experience at the international level related to the sound management of chemicals and waste, particularly in the electronics value chain and hazardous waste management sectors, is required. Candidates should have experience in developing and implementing international environmental programs in developing countries, managing sustainability projects, and working with the Global Environment Facility or equivalent international project cycles. Experience in collaborating with the private sector on hazardous waste management solutions is also required. Two or more years of experience in data analytics or related areas is desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Desirable languages include French, Russian, Chinese (Mandarin), Spanish, and Arabic, with a minimum proficiency of UN Level II in these languages.

Additional Notes:
The appointment against this project 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 Secretariat is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Candidates who have worked as Individual Contractors or Consultants within the UN Secretariat in the last six months are ineligible to apply for this position. All applicants are strongly encouraged to apply online as soon as possible after the job opening has been posted.