Consultant for Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), which serves as the Secretariat of the 10 Year Framework of Programmes on Sustainable Consumption and Production Patterns (10YFP). UNEP was established to support the implementation of sustainable development policies and practices globally. The organization works closely with Member States and various stakeholders engaged in the One Planet network, which includes global programs and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable consumption and production. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it operates in numerous countries worldwide, collaborating with various international organizations and stakeholders to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in enhancing the visibility and effectiveness of the 10YFP Secretariat's work on Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP). This position involves supporting the implementation and scaling up of SPP initiatives in alignment with the Global Strategy for Sustainable Consumption and Production (SCP) for the period of 2023 to 203

• The consultant will be responsible for coordinating the Plan to Accelerate Solutions (PAS) on SPP, which includes establishing the SPP program as a practical coordination mechanism for PAS implementation. The role requires close collaboration with various partners, including UNIDO/IDDI, MGI Brazil, and the UN Climate High-Level Champions team, to ensure effective delivery and tracking of SPP impact. The consultant will also work on strengthening the evidence base for SPP impact, facilitating stakeholder engagement, and ensuring that SPP remains a priority under the Action Agenda and future COP cycles.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include establishing the SPP program as the primary coordination mechanism for PAS implementation, which involves creating a clear engagement plan for stakeholders, organizing monthly coordination meetings, and tracking actions and deliveries to maintain momentum. The consultant will also work on aligning the PAS and SPP program within existing governance structures by re-engaging the SPP Programme Multi-stakeholder Advisory Committee (MAC) and recruiting new strategic stakeholders and Member States. Additionally, the consultant will advance SPP impact data collection and measurement by developing a pragmatic improvement pathway, conducting technical consultations to build stakeholder alignment on measurement practices, and identifying best practices and leading examples. The consultant will also ensure synergies with SDG 12.7.1 reporting where relevant, thereby contributing to the overall goals of the 10YFP and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in public policy or administration, sustainable development, environmental science, economics, engineering, or a related field. In cases where a candidate has a first-level degree, relevant qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have at least 5 years of professional experience in public procurement, international cooperation, or public policy, with specific experience in SPP being essential. Demonstrated experience in engaging with governments and facilitating stakeholder consultations or training is required. Candidates should also have experience in coordinating multi-stakeholder processes and working with international, regional, and national organizations, including UN entities. Experience in organizing and delivering events, such as capacity-building workshops or policy consultations, is highly desirable. Strong analytical, research, writing, and communication skills are necessary, as well as the ability to prepare reports, briefings, concept notes, and outreach materials for diverse audiences.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in relevant fields such as public policy, sustainable development, environmental science, economics, or engineering. A first-level degree may be accepted if combined with qualifying experience, indicating that candidates with a bachelor's degree and significant relevant work experience may also be considered for the role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in fields related to public procurement, international cooperation, or public policy. This experience should include a focus on sustainable public procurement (SPP) and demonstrate the ability to engage effectively with government entities and facilitate stakeholder consultations. Experience in coordinating multi-stakeholder processes and working with various organizations, including UN entities, is highly desirable, as is experience in organizing events and capacity-building workshops.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly any of the UN official languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, and Spanish), is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is part-time and expected to last for 6 months. It is a remote role, allowing for flexibility in work location. The United Nations emphasizes that it does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Candidates should be aware that the UN does not request information regarding applicants' bank accounts.