Consultant for SWIOP Project Coordination

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 administers the Nairobi Convention for the Protection, Management and Development of the Coastal and Marine Environment of the Western Indian Ocean (WIO). The organization works with international and national partners to provide technical assistance and advisory services for the implementation of environmental policy, thereby strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and those with economies in transition. UNEP operates in multiple countries, collaborating with various stakeholders to achieve its mission of promoting sustainable environmental practices.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in achieving operational readiness for the SWIOP Project by establishing coordination structures, implementation frameworks, and planning instruments that support effective project delivery under the Nairobi Convention. The position is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of four months. The consultant will focus on improving the framework conditions among Contracting Parties to the Nairobi Convention and other partners for implementing the Regional Ocean Governance Structures (ROGS). This role will involve providing technical leadership during the inception phase of the project, which includes work planning, developing Terms of Reference (TORs) for required consultants, and the development of legal instruments with Implementing Partners. The consultant will work closely with the Nairobi Convention Secretariat and will be responsible for drafting various documents and agreements necessary for the project's success.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Collaborating with the Nairobi Convention Secretariat to prepare draft Terms of Reference for the recruitment of the SWIOP Project Coordination Unit (PCU), which includes positions such as Project Manager, Assistant Project Manager, Communications Consultant, and National Ocean Governance Consultant.
• Developing a comprehensive workplan for Year 1 of the SWIOP, detailing activities, timelines, and responsible parties.
• Drafting Small Scale Funding Agreements for Implementing Partners in areas such as Ocean Governance and Science to Policy support, Implementation support for ROGS Structures, and training related to Marine Spatial Planning (MSP).
• Creating Terms of Reference for consultancies focused on regional Policy and Legal assessments, Blue Finance, and the implementation of the BBNJ Agreement.
• Attending and representing the Nairobi Convention in SWIOP coordination meetings, ensuring effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in Marine Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Natural Resources Management, or similar disciplines. A minimum of 7 years of professional experience is required, specifically in regional marine and coastal-related projects at a technical level. Candidates should have excellent knowledge of the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) region and experience working with the governments within this area. Experience in stakeholder engagement for ocean governance and multidisciplinary environmental matters is also required. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to deliver quality assignments in a timely manner and possess strong scientific/technical writing skills.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Marine Sciences, Environmental Sciences, or Natural Resources Management is mandatory for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to the project.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of professional experience working on regional marine and coastal-related projects at a technical level. This experience should include a strong understanding of the Western Indian Ocean region and a proven track record of engaging with various stakeholders, including government entities, to address ocean governance and environmental issues.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset, although English is the primary language of communication for this role.

Additional Notes:
The position is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of four months. There are no fees associated with the recruitment process, as the United Nations does not charge applicants at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization emphasizes that it does not require information regarding applicants' bank accounts.