Environmental Policy Specialist

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 inspire, inform, and enable nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of approximately 1,000 employees, working collaboratively with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The Environmental Policy Specialist position is crucial for strengthening the delivery of UNEP's regional science-policy sub-programme mandate in the Africa region. The incumbent will support the implementation of UNEP's global programmes by coordinating and catalyzing regional and sub-regional cooperation in response to environmental challenges. This role involves working closely with UN Country Teams and other partners to integrate environmental considerations into national development planning and programming processes. The position requires a strong understanding of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Paris Climate Agreement, and Africa's Agenda 2063, as well as the ability to analyze and evaluate progress in these areas. The incumbent will also be responsible for producing various written outputs, conducting outreach activities, and supporting the development of environmental data platforms.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Environmental Policy Specialist include: reviewing and analyzing progress against UNEP's corporate biennial programme of work; supporting the regional contextualization of policy development; preparing written outputs such as reports and analyses; assisting UN Country Teams in integrating environmental dimensions into national planning; maintaining environmental data platforms; conducting training workshops and seminars; researching science-policy related issues; preparing consultative meeting materials; producing briefing notes and political briefs; and providing input to administrative processes related to budgetary and funding matters. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying trends and gaps in environmental policy and proposing corrective actions to enhance the effectiveness of UNEP's interventions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental management, governance, policy-related fields, or sustainable development. A minimum of five years of progressive experience in environmental policy development and natural resource management is required. Experience in the UN system’s reform process, particularly with the UN Resident Coordinator System and Regional Collaborative Platforms, is essential. Additionally, familiarity with UNEP's New Delivery Model Policy and experience in UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks are desirable.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree, specifically a master's degree or equivalent, in fields related to environmental management, governance, policy, or sustainable development. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of environmental issues and the frameworks that guide sustainable development initiatives.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of progressive experience in environmental policy development and associated natural resource and ecosystem management. This experience should include at least two years of work related to UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Frameworks, demonstrating a solid understanding of the UN system and its operational mechanisms.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is essential for collaboration with various stakeholders and for the preparation of reports and analyses. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the ability to engage with diverse partners across the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for a duration of nine months, and it is based in Nairobi, Kenya. The role is full-time and involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, including government representatives, UN agencies, and civil society organizations. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that the hiring process is transparent and equitable.