Consultant for GEF Net-Zero Nature-Positive Accelerator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Established in 1972, UNEP has grown to encompass a diverse workforce of thousands of employees across various countries, working collaboratively to address pressing environmental challenges. UNEP operates in over 150 countries, engaging with governments, civil society, and the private sector to foster sustainable development and environmental protection. The organization is committed to promoting the wise use of the global environment and sustainable development, focusing on areas such as climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable resource management.

Job Overview:
The consultant position is integral to the GEF Net-Zero Nature-Positive Accelerator (NZNPA) Global Platform, which aims to support countries in achieving net-zero nature-positive economies. This role involves addressing the complex interconnections between climate change and biodiversity loss, with a focus on catalyzing finance and partnerships, promoting policy coherence, and sharing knowledge and best practices. The consultant will contribute to the development of guidelines for integrating nature-positive considerations into fiscal policy, assess gaps in financing frameworks, and support the mobilization of public and private finance for NZNP initiatives. The position also entails creating knowledge products, facilitating international discussions, and responding to government inquiries regarding green fiscal policy, thereby playing a crucial role in advancing UNEP's mission to foster sustainable development through effective environmental governance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's responsibilities include: 1) Addressing technical aspects related to finance enabling under the GEF Net Zero Nature Positive Accelerator Integrated Program, focusing on financial sustainability and mechanisms. 2) Providing technical input for guidelines on mainstreaming NZNP considerations in fiscal policy and assessing gaps in financing frameworks. 3) Developing global and regional normative standards, guidance, and financing models to strengthen the national enabling environment for attracting finance towards NZNP objectives. 4) Directing research and managing consultancies for country case studies to pilot guidance methodologies. 5) Organizing webinars for global dissemination of information on aligning fiscal policy with NZNP objectives. 6) Designing and delivering capacity-building activities on transitioning to green economies and sustainable budgeting approaches. 7) Drafting Project Cooperation Agreements with national and global implementing partners and developing policy briefs on biodiversity finance. 8) Coordinating with national partners to ensure timely delivery of project activities and supporting global project management functions such as budgeting and reporting. 9) Performing other tasks as requested by the programme officer in charge.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s or higher degree in economics, public policy, environmental policy, or a related field. A minimum of five years of proven experience in implementing projects related to NZNP frameworks or green fiscal policy at national or international levels is required. Familiarity with public financial systems, particularly the Sustainable Budgeting Approach, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate experience in conducting desk research on public finance frameworks related to green fiscal policy, as well as experience in organizing international workshops or conferences on public finance and sustainable development. Experience with multilateral and bilateral environmental funds, such as the Global Environment Facility and the International Climate Initiative, is strongly desired. Engagement with relevant implementing partners and governments on fiscal policy initiatives is also preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or higher in fields such as economics, public policy, environmental policy, or related disciplines. This advanced education is critical for understanding the complexities of fiscal policy and its implications for sustainable development and environmental governance.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant experience in supporting the implementation of projects similar to NZNP frameworks or green fiscal policy. Candidates should have a strong background in public finance systems and demonstrated experience in conducting research and facilitating international discussions on fiscal policy and sustainable development. Familiarity with the public finance landscape in countries implementing the NZNPA IP is preferred, along with experience in fiscal reform and environmental policy.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position, as English is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in French is also required, as it is another working language of the UN. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and expected to last for 12 months. The consultant will be engaged on a contractual basis, and there are no fees associated with the recruitment process. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.