Senior Programme Management Officer

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. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and aims to deliver effective strategic guidance and high-impact action in support of the transition towards climate stability. The organization is committed to addressing climate change mitigation and adaptation, enhancing implementation capacity, and building resilience. UNEP operates globally, working with member states and partners to promote sustainable development and effective policies for climate stability.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Management Officer will be responsible for leading the International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) Transparency Practice and the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0). This role involves identifying new opportunities and strategic alliances to advance transparency on methane emissions, mobilizing leaders in the oil and gas sector, and engaging with partners to guide the Partnership. The incumbent will oversee the publication of knowledge products, manage the Partnership’s governance structures, and provide strategic guidance to UNEP. The position requires a strong focus on coordination, management, and administration of the OGMP 2.0 team, ensuring effective implementation of the workplan and budget, and supervising the development of communications products.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Programme Management Officer include:

• Providing leadership and strategic direction for IMEO’s Transparency Practice and OGMP 2.0;
• Identifying opportunities and mobilizing commitments to methane emissions reductions;
• Engaging with partners and managing the Partnership’s governance structures;
• Overseeing the development and execution of the OGMP 2.0 workplan and budget;
• Recruiting companies into the Partnership and negotiating legal agreements;
• Organizing and chairing the annual OGMP 2.0 implementation conference;
• Supervising the OGMP 2.0 team and ensuring quality control;
• Collecting and analyzing data to provide insights for decision-making;
• Coordinating with external partners on methane-related activities; 1
• Representing IMEO and UNEP at international events; 1
• Performing any other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess advanced knowledge and understanding of project/programme management, particularly in relation to methane emissions monitoring and reporting in the oil and gas sector. Expertise in stakeholder engagement approaches for National and International Oil Companies is essential. The ability to analyze and interpret data for decision-making is crucial, along with a commitment to gender balance in staffing and participation.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in environmental science, environmental economics, engineering, social sciences, international relations, or a related area is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work 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.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in partnership management with stakeholders from the oil and gas sector on methane-related issues is required. Candidates should have experience with methane emissions reporting frameworks, managing complex global methane projects, and leading geographically dispersed teams. Experience working with developing countries and designing methane emissions reduction policies is desirable, as is experience within the UN system or similar international organizations.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is desirable, also at UN Level II proficiency. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages, particularly in a professional context.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is for an initial period of one year and may be subject to extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is classified as fixed-term and is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. All applicants are encouraged to apply online as soon as possible after the job opening has been posted.