Project Manager

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. Established to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, UNEP works with various partners to provide technical assistance and advisory services for the implementation of environmental policy. The organization has a significant presence in multiple countries, focusing on strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing nations and those with economies in transition. UNEP's Ecosystems Division, where this position is located, collaborates with international and national partners to address biodiversity and land degradation issues, ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into development processes.

Job Overview:
The Project Manager will play a crucial role in the Ecosystems Division of UNEP, specifically under the Global Environment Facility Biodiversity and Land Degradation Unit. The incumbent will be responsible for identifying and developing projects that align with UNEP's mission and the Global Environment Facility's objectives. This includes liaising with internal and external partners to identify project concepts, advising project proponents on revisions, and ensuring that project proposals meet quality standards. The role also involves supervising project implementation, preparing reports, and maintaining project-related documentation. The Project Manager will apply adaptive management principles to oversee projects, ensuring they meet their objectives and are executed in accordance with UNEP and Global Environment Facility policies. The position requires a proactive approach to project management, with a focus on achieving results and addressing challenges as they arise.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Manager's duties include:

• Liaising with partners to identify project concepts and discussing them with the Senior Programme Officer.
• Advising project proponents on revisions based on peer reviews.
• Monitoring project milestones to prevent delays and cancellations.
• Ensuring compliance with Global Environment Facility standards and facilitating project preparation grant execution.
• Preparing supervision plans and organizing project inception meetings.
• Overseeing project execution, preparing reports, and participating in Project Steering Committees.
• Monitoring project progress and performance, addressing risks, and ensuring quality standards are met.
• Maintaining project documentation and supporting project evaluations.
• Contributing to corporate tasks related to UNEP and Global Environment Facility evaluations and policy documents. 1
• Engaging in continuous professional development and knowledge sharing within the division.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of project and programme management, environmental management, and biodiversity sciences. They should demonstrate the ability to identify and analyze issues, conduct independent research, and manage conflicting priorities effectively. The role requires excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to tailor messages to different audiences. Candidates should also exhibit strong planning and organizational skills, with the ability to develop clear goals and adjust priorities as needed. Leadership qualities are essential, as the Project Manager will be expected to empower others and drive change within the organization.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in biodiversity sciences, environmental sciences, natural resource management, environmental policy, or a closely related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in biodiversity and land degradation issues, particularly in African developing countries or countries in transition, is required. Candidates should have experience in conceptualizing and developing projects in the ecosystems and biodiversity field. Familiarity with the Global Environment Facility is desirable, as is experience in data analytics or related areas, with at least two years of relevant experience preferred.

Languages:
The working languages of the United Nations Secretariat are English and French. For this position, proficiency in both languages is required, with a minimum level of proficiency defined by the UN Language Framework. Candidates must demonstrate strong reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in both languages to effectively communicate and collaborate within the organization.

Additional Notes:
This position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The appointment is classified as a fixed-term appointment limited to the entity, and renewal is contingent upon these factors. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.