Head of Mining Unit

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 aims to encourage decision-makers in government, local authorities, and industry to develop and adopt policies, strategies, and practices that promote sustainable patterns of consumption and production. Established to address environmental issues, UNEP operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to environmental sustainability.

Job Overview:
The Head of the Mining Unit will coordinate and manage the Mining Unit within the Industry Innovation Branch of UNEP's Industry and Economy Division. This role involves working closely with governments to develop policies that promote responsible mining and circularity in the minerals value chain. The incumbent will provide strategic leadership and foster collaboration across sectors to facilitate a just transition towards responsible mining practices. The position requires the formulation and implementation of the Branch's work program, ensuring alignment with UNEP’s medium-term strategy and contributions to the UN Task Force on Critical Energy Transition Minerals. The role also includes overseeing the development and monitoring of the UNEP mining portfolio, engaging with various stakeholders, and ensuring effective communication and outreach activities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will lead the development of plans for the UNEP mining portfolio, coordinating with all UNEP Divisions, Regional Offices, and Country Offices. Responsibilities include managing the Mining Unit, establishing partnerships with strategic organizations, and overseeing the implementation of projects related to responsible mining. The Head will coordinate policy development, engage with the private sector, and ensure the delivery of UNEP’s contributions to the UN Task Force on Critical Energy Transition Minerals. Additional duties include mobilizing resources, preparing key messages and publications, organizing consultative meetings, and ensuring gender mainstreaming in all actions. The role also involves supervising staff, analyzing data for decision-making, and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in environmental engineering, industrial engineering, mining engineering, or environmental management. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of responsible mining practices and circular economy principles, as well as experience in project management and policy development.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as environmental engineering, industrial engineering, mining engineering, or environmental management is required. A first-level university degree may be accepted with additional qualifying experience. Completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is also desirable, indicating a strong foundation in data-driven decision-making.

Experience:
A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in project or program management related to responsible mining and circular economy is required, with at least five years at the international level. Candidates should have experience working with governments and the private sector in developing countries on mining value chain issues. Proven experience in managing programs with budgets exceeding 5 million USD and coordinating multi-stakeholder groups is essential. Experience in data analytics or related areas is desirable, as is managing teams of more than five people simultaneously.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French or Spanish is desirable, with a similar proficiency level expected. Proficiency in these languages will facilitate effective communication within the UN system and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is for an initial 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 external candidates will be granted a fixed-term appointment limited. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.