NDC Finance Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. UNEP was established in 1972 and has since been at the forefront of environmental governance, working with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental issues. The organization operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to promoting sustainable development through sound environmental practices. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a critical role in coordinating responses to environmental challenges on a global scale.

Job Overview:
The NDC Finance Consultant will undertake a part-time assignment focused on providing technical inputs and reviewing the NDC Investment Plan as part of a broader project aimed at supporting Zambia's climate change initiatives. The consultant will be responsible for capacity building on climate finance, helping to organize and facilitate the launch of the NDC Investment Plan, and preparing project proposals for funding sources on behalf of Zambian organizations. This role is crucial in ensuring that Zambia can effectively implement its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, which outlines the country's commitments to climate change mitigation and adaptation. The consultant will work closely with the UNEP team and the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment in Zambia to enhance local capacity and mobilize resources for climate action.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The NDC Finance Consultant will support the UNEP team in several key outputs of the project. The consultant will provide technical inputs and review the draft NDC Investment Plan, which will include identifying financing sources, mapping out financing models, and assessing investment requirements. Additionally, the consultant will assist in building local capacity through climate finance training sessions, workshops, and stakeholder engagement activities. The consultant will also play a pivotal role in raising awareness about the NDC 3.0 implementation framework and the NDC Investment Plan by presenting at the launch event and supporting outreach efforts. Furthermore, the consultant will help organize a donor conference aimed at mobilizing resources for climate investment projects, and will be responsible for drafting and submitting project proposals to various funding sources, ensuring they meet the expectations of UNEP and align with Zambia's climate goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree in environmental engineering, finance, economics, development studies, business, management, administration, or a related field, along with at least seven years of relevant work experience. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree with nine years of relevant experience is acceptable. Practical experience of over ten years in climate change issues, particularly in climate fund proposal development, is essential. Candidates should have demonstrated experience working with private sector businesses, governments, or development finance institutions on climate fund proposals, as well as experience with submissions to the Green Climate Fund, Adaptation Fund, or similar entities. A track record of successful proposals is highly desirable, along with relevant consulting experience and familiarity with Zambia's climate change landscape.

Educational Background:
A Master's Degree in a relevant field such as environmental engineering, finance, economics, development studies, business, management, or administration is required, along with substantial work experience in related areas. A Bachelor's degree may be considered if accompanied by additional years of relevant experience. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in environmental and financial principles, particularly as they relate to climate change and sustainable development.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of ten years of practical experience in climate change issues, with a focus on climate fund proposal development. Experience in formulating and developing climate fund proposals specifically in Zambia is crucial. Additionally, candidates should have a proven track record of working with various stakeholders, including private sector businesses, government entities, and development finance institutions, on climate fund proposals. Experience with submissions to major climate funds and a history of successful proposals will be advantageous. Familiarity with Zambia's public institutions and experience in organizing workshops or similar events will also be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the stakeholders involved in the project or the local context in Zambia.

Additional Notes:
This is a part-time position expected to last for seven months. The consultant will report to the UNEP Project Manager and will be expected to deliver high-quality outputs in a timely manner. The role involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, including government officials, local organizations, and international funding bodies. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.