PPG Assistant Coordinator

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 has a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. Established in 1972, UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of professionals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development. The organization works on various environmental issues, including climate change, biodiversity, and pollution, and collaborates with governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The PPG Assistant Coordinator will play a crucial role in coordinating the implementation of the Project Preparation Grant (PPG) phase for the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF) project. This position involves ensuring the timely delivery of the full CEO Endorsement Request package in accordance with GEF and GBFF requirements. The consultant will work under the supervision of UNEP’s Mineral Unit and in close coordination with national executing agencies in Liberia and The Gambia. The role requires a strong understanding of environmental governance, sustainable development, and the mining sector, as well as the ability to consolidate inputs from various stakeholders into a coherent project document. The PPG Assistant Coordinator will be responsible for conducting baseline assessments, stakeholder consultations, and various analyses to support the project’s objectives of mainstreaming biodiversity conservation across the sand mining value chain.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The PPG Assistant Coordinator will be responsible for the following duties:

• Coordinate the implementation of the PPG phase, ensuring that all activities are aligned with GEF and GBFF requirements.
• Facilitate stakeholder consultations and gather inputs from national and international consultants.
• Conduct baseline assessments, including spatial modelling, market and livelihood analyses, and gender analysis.
• Prepare the full project document for submission to the GBFF Secretariat, ensuring it is technically sound and aligned with the Global Biodiversity Framework.
• Collaborate with UNEP’s Mineral Unit and national executing agencies to promote better environmental governance and sustainable development goals implementation.
• Provide technical support and guidance to stakeholders in the mining sector, focusing on sustainable practices and resource efficiency.
• Monitor and evaluate project progress, ensuring timely delivery of outputs and adherence to project timelines.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess a master’s degree in law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, environmental or mining law, environmental economics, or a related field. A first degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, the candidate should have at least four years of demonstrated experience in the field of mining, extractive industries, environmental protection, or related areas. Familiarity with UNEP’s internal processes and experience in developing agreements with implementing partners is essential. Previous experience working with public stakeholders in developing countries, particularly on mining disasters, is also required. The candidate should have experience with science centres focused on sand mining in West Africa and a background in developing studies on sand mining and policy in the region.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a master’s degree in a relevant field such as international law, environmental or mining law, or environmental economics. A first degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree, indicating that practical experience can complement academic qualifications.

Experience:
The position requires at least four years of relevant experience in the mining sector, extractive industries, or environmental protection. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with international organizations and public stakeholders, particularly in developing countries. Experience in project management and familiarity with the intersection of circular economy approaches and livelihoods related to the sand mining sector in West Africa is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, a working knowledge of French and/or Spanish is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with stakeholders in the regions where the project is being implemented.

Additional Notes:
This position is remote and is expected to last for a duration of five months. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Applicants should be aware that the United Nations does not request information regarding bank accounts during the recruitment process.