Senior Programme Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established to promote 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. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on various environmental issues and sustainable development goals. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in addressing global environmental challenges.

Job Overview:
The Senior Programme Officer position is located in UNEP’s Southern Africa Sub-Regional Office in Pretoria, South Africa. The primary objective of this role is to respond to the needs and expectations of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries regarding environmental issues. The incumbent will support countries in addressing the triple planetary crises of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution and waste. This position requires a proactive approach to developing and implementing UNEP's programme of work in the Southern Africa region, ensuring effective collaboration with various stakeholders, including government entities, UN agencies, and regional organizations. The role also involves resource mobilization, communication, and strategic partnership development to enhance UNEP's impact in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Development and Implementation of the Programme of Work for the Southern Africa region, including maintaining contact with governments, identifying national priorities, and coordinating with UN entities.
• Liaison with regional and sub-regional bodies to support environmental initiatives.
• Facilitate South-South cooperation by engaging with the Government of South Africa and exploring capacity-building opportunities.
• Resource mobilization through donor relations support, mapping, and developing strategic partnerships.
• Communication and liaison to keep the Regional Office updated on environmental matters and facilitate timely responses to emerging issues.
• Perform other relevant duties as required by the Regional Director.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of the UN system, particularly in the context of environmental management. They should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, teamwork, leadership abilities, and performance management capabilities. The ability to adapt to changing environments and manage complexities is essential. Candidates should also exhibit a commitment to gender balance and diversity in staffing.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in environmental policy or science, natural resources management, development planning, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of experience in environmental or natural resources management is required, with at least five years at the international level. Experience in implementing environmental policies in a UN context or similar international organizations is desirable. Familiarity with resource mobilization and data analytics is also beneficial.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of French is an asset, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat.

Additional Notes:
The initial appointment for this position is for a period of one year, subject to extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is classified as fixed-term, and candidates should be aware that if the position is discontinued, the incumbent will be separated from service. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.