Consultant for Blue Economy Valuation and Marine Biotechnology Investment Plan

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established in 195

• Its mission is to promote the economic and social development of its member states, foster regional integration, and promote international cooperation for development. UNECA operates in multiple countries across Africa, focusing on various sectors including economic policy, social development, and environmental sustainability. The organization employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with various stakeholders to achieve its goals, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making and sustainable practices.

Job Overview:
The consultant position focuses on updating the Blue Economy Valuation Toolkit (BEVTK) assessment for Zanzibar and enhancing the marine biotechnology investment plan for Seychelles. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of the blue economy, which encompasses the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems. The consultant will work closely with local stakeholders to gather data, analyze the contributions of the blue economy, and develop business plans that attract investment in marine biotechnology. This position is crucial for providing policymakers and investors with a robust business case that highlights the potential economic benefits of marine resources.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key tasks:

• Updating the Blue Economy assessment for Zanzibar using the UNECA BEVTK, which includes liaising with local stakeholders to gather necessary data, completing data collection, and producing a draft assessment report.
• Conducting a peer review of findings with UNECA and the Department of Blue Economy, and facilitating a practice session with department officers on the toolkit.
• Updating the marine biotechnology investment plan for Seychelles by elaborating on business plans that indicate profitability margins for the marine biotechnology value chain.
• Conducting a return on investment assessment for the marine biotechnology sector in Seychelles, working closely with local stakeholders and conducting validation sessions with them.
• Ensuring that all outputs meet high-quality standards and are delivered within tight deadlines.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in marine sciences or a related field. Alternatively, a first degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of a master's degree. A minimum of five years of experience in data collection and research related to the blue economy and marine species is required. Additionally, candidates should have a thorough understanding of different marine species, experience in conducting qualitative and quantitative socio-economic and ecological assessments, and familiarity with blue economy value chains. Experience working with national institutions and in multicultural environments or international organizations is desirable. Strong oral and written communication skills, as well as the ability to work independently and proactively, are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a master's degree in marine sciences or a related field. In cases where a candidate holds a first degree, they must also have two additional years of relevant experience to qualify for the role. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of marine ecosystems and the economic implications of blue economy initiatives.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of relevant experience in conducting data collection and research focused on the blue economy and marine species. Candidates should also have at least one year of experience in qualitative and quantitative socio-economic and ecological assessments. Experience in blue economy value chains and working with national institutions is considered an asset. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate the ability to work under tight deadlines while delivering high-quality outputs.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, both oral and written. Knowledge of French is also required as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Furthermore, having a working knowledge of Swahili would be advantageous, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders in Zanzibar and Seychelles.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is home-based with expected travel, and the duration of the contract is two months. The position does not specify a seniority level, but it is implied that the consultant should have significant expertise in the field. The recruitment process is open to both national and international candidates, and it is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.