Individual Contractor for Stakeholder Engagement and Cooperation 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. Established in 1972, UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment, working to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. The organization operates in over 100 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to various environmental initiatives. UNEP's mission is to inspire, inform, and enable nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

Job Overview:
The position of Individual Contractor for the Stakeholder Engagement and Cooperation Unit involves supporting the Secretariat in advancing the agenda on subnational governments and local authorities in preparation for the SBI 7 and COP17 meetings. The contractor will be responsible for finalizing pre-session documentation, preparing substantive inputs, and ensuring effective engagement with subnational and local authorities. This role requires strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively. The contractor will also assist in the coordination of key events, including the Cities Summit and meetings of mayors, while ensuring that all activities align with the overarching goals of the Convention on Biological Diversity. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in facilitating meaningful participation from various stakeholders and will be expected to deliver high-quality outputs within tight timelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Individual Contractor include:

• Supporting the finalization of pre-session documents and substantive inputs related to the role of subnational governments and local authorities in implementing the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) and the Convention. This involves identifying and compiling relevant case studies and experiences for inclusion in official documents.
• Assisting in the negotiation process and servicing the agenda item at SBI 7 and COP17 by preparing background notes, speaking points, and other materials as required.
• Engaging with subnational governments and local authorities to facilitate their participation in official events at COP17, including outreach and coordination with relevant organizations.
• Coordinating preparations for key associated events such as the Cities Summit and meetings of the Advisory Committees, ensuring all necessary documentation is prepared.
• Preparing a final report summarizing activities undertaken, outputs delivered, and recommendations for follow-up after COP17.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with a first-level university degree (Bachelor’s) in public policy, public administration, international relations, political science, governance, environmental policy, sustainable development, or a related field being desirable. Candidates must possess strong organizational and planning skills, excellent drafting abilities, and the capacity to work independently while managing competing priorities. Fluency in English is required, and knowledge of other United Nations languages is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. A first-level university degree (Bachelor’s) in relevant fields such as public policy, public administration, international relations, political science, governance, environmental policy, or sustainable development is desirable. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of stakeholder engagement and environmental governance.

Experience:
A minimum of six years of progressively responsible professional experience in areas such as stakeholder engagement, governance, public administration, international relations, sustainable development, or environmental policy is required. Experience in supporting coordination processes, drafting reports, and organizing international meetings or events is desirable. Familiarity with biodiversity, environmental governance, and the workings of international organizations, particularly the United Nations system, is also advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of other United Nations languages is desirable, as it can enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity, meaning that applicants should be Canadian residents or citizens or have permission to work in Canada. The work location is Montreal, Canada, and the successful candidate must be based in a time zone compatible with Montreal (Eastern Time) to ensure effective coordination. Occasional work from the Secretariat’s office in Montreal is desirable, and travel may be required. The contract duration is expected to be six months, and the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.