Consultant (Technical Advisor for the CBD COP17)

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established in 1972, UNEP 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. UNEP works with a wide range of partners, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to address pressing environmental issues and to foster sustainable development. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of approximately 1,000 employees, dedicated to various environmental initiatives and programs.

Job Overview:
The Consultant (Technical Advisor for the CBD COP17) will play a crucial role in shaping the program for the seventeenth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD COP17), which is scheduled to take place from 19 to 30 October 2026 in Yerevan, Armenia. This position involves providing substantive technical input, preparing documentation for official events, and coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure effective engagement and outreach. The Consultant will work closely with the Ministry of Environment of Armenia and UNEP's Ecosystems Division to advance the content and programmatic aspects of the CBD COP1

• The role is part-time and home-based, allowing for flexibility while ensuring that the necessary technical support is provided to facilitate the successful organization of the conference.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Consultant will be responsible for delivering a range of services, including: 1) Providing substantive technical input to shape the CBD COP17 program, ensuring alignment with the objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity. 2) Developing a comprehensive package of documents to prepare for and organize official events related to CBD COP1

• 3) Compiling reports that summarize coordination efforts with relevant stakeholders, ensuring that all parties are informed and engaged in the process. 4) Creating briefing notes and outreach documents aimed at donor and stakeholder engagement, facilitating communication and collaboration among various entities involved in the conference.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in biodiversity conservation, environmental science, international development, political science, social science, or a closely related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with an additional two years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A minimum of 7 years of experience in biodiversity and environmental issues at national, regional, or global levels is required. Experience related to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) is highly advantageous, as is experience in biodiversity conservation specifically within Armenia. Familiarity with the United Nations system and/or Intergovernmental Organizations, particularly in multicultural work environments, is also beneficial. Experience in communication and outreach campaigns will be considered an asset.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in biodiversity conservation, environmental science, international development, political science, social science, or a closely related field is required for this position. Candidates with a first-level university degree may be considered if they have an additional two years of relevant experience. This educational background is essential to ensure that the Consultant possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to the CBD COP17 preparations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in biodiversity and environmental issues, which can be gained through work at national, regional, or global levels. Candidates with experience specifically related to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) will have a competitive advantage. Additionally, experience in biodiversity conservation within Armenia is highly desirable, as it will provide valuable context and understanding of local environmental challenges and opportunities. Experience working within the United Nations system or Intergovernmental Organizations, particularly in multicultural settings, is also beneficial and will enhance the Consultant's ability to navigate the complexities of international environmental governance.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is required for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also advantageous, as it is another working language of the UN. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages will facilitate collaboration with diverse stakeholders and enhance the Consultant's effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is part-time and home-based, allowing for flexibility in work arrangements. The expected duration of the consultancy is 6 months, during which the Consultant will be expected to deliver on the outlined responsibilities and contribute to the successful organization of the CBD COP1

• It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. Applicants should be cautious of any requests for payment or personal banking information during the recruitment process.