Circular Economy and Programme Innovation Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people to address the challenges of human development. The organization focuses on advancing human development on a healthy planet through systemic transformation, integrated portfolios, and a culture of innovation and learning. UNDP's Strategic Plan (2026–2029) emphasizes four strategic objectives: prosperity for all, effective governance, crisis resilience, and a healthy planet, supported by accelerators such as digital transformation, gender equality, and sustainable finance. UNDP is committed to addressing complex challenges related to resource inefficiency, environmental degradation, and climate risks, particularly in the context of the Regional Bureau for Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States (RBEC).

Job Overview:
The Circular Economy and Programme Innovation Analyst will play a crucial role in connecting regional circular economy priorities with country-level portfolio design, learning, and program integration. This position is designed to enhance UNDP's capacity to design, implement, and adapt portfolios as innovative delivery mechanisms while strengthening circular economy-related programs through learning and systems-based approaches. The Analyst will support the RBEC in advancing regional circular economy analysis and innovation, contributing to the development of concepts and proposals for partner engagement, and assisting the UNDP Country Office in Bosnia and Herzegovina in integrating circular economy approaches across its Country Programme Document (CPD) implementation. The role involves a mix of remote and office-based work, with approximately 60% of the responsibilities focused on regional support and 40% on country-level integration.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Analyst will perform a variety of functions under matrix supervision, including: conducting analytical work on circular economy trends and policies across the RBEC region; providing advisory support to Country Offices on integrating circular economy principles; developing concept notes and project proposals for partner engagement; contributing to regional guidance notes and analytical briefs; supporting the design and evolution of portfolios at both regional and country levels; analyzing portfolio performance to inform adaptive programming; integrating portfolio approaches across program pillars in Bosnia and Herzegovina; strengthening linkages between circular economy interventions and broader CPD priorities; supporting internal coordination and knowledge sharing; identifying and documenting innovative circular economy solutions; facilitating regional learning exchanges; and contributing to evidence generation on effective circular economy approaches.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Environmental Management, Development Studies, or other relevant fields. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree) in the mentioned areas with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience with a Master's degree or 4 years with a Bachelor's degree in circular economy, sustainability, environmental policy, program design, or innovation. Demonstrated experience in analytical work and program support related to circular economy or resource efficiency is essential, along with proven experience in facilitating multi-stakeholder design processes and co-creation for adaptive management. Proficiency in MS Office applications and web-based management systems is required, along with up-to-date knowledge of AI technologies and tools.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in Environmental Management, Development Studies, or other relevant fields is required. A first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree) in the areas mentioned above with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of circular economy and sustainable development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in circular economy, sustainability, environmental policy, program design, or innovation for candidates with a Master's degree. For those with a Bachelor's degree, a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience is necessary. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in analytical work and program support related to circular economy or resource efficiency, as well as proven experience in facilitating multi-stakeholder design processes and co-creation for adaptive management.

Languages:
Fluency in BHS (Bosnian, Croatian, or Serbian) and English is required for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders in the region and for the successful implementation of circular economy initiatives.

Additional Notes:
The Circular Economy and Programme Innovation Analyst will work under the supervision of the Regional Technical Specialist at UNDP Istanbul Regional Hub and the UNDP Bosnia and Herzegovina Resident Representative. The role may involve coordination with global technical teams to ensure alignment and knowledge exchange between regional and country-level circular economy portfolios. UNDP values diversity and encourages qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination. UNDP reserves the right to select one or more candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions. The recruitment process does not involve any fees.