Consultant for NBSAP Implementation

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda. Established to promote 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. The organization coordinates the development of environmental policy consensus, keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP operates globally, engaging with various stakeholders to promote ecosystem-based solutions for sustainable development. It is also a key agency hosting the NBSAP Accelerator Partnership, which supports the development and implementation of ambitious National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs).

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in assisting the Government of Sierra Leone through its Environment Protection Agency (EPA) to conduct a comprehensive gap analysis and stock-take of its previous NBSAP 2.0 (2017-2026). This analysis aims to enhance the monitoring of the country’s NBSAP implementation and track progress effectively. The consultant will be responsible for producing a comprehensive stock take/baseline report that details findings and analysis, as well as recommendations for updating the NBSAP national targets and indicators. The consultant will also provide metadata for targets, input for the future National Report to the CBD Conference of the Parties, and establish a data bank for future reporting. The work is expected to last for three months and will involve close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the NBSAP Accelerator Partnerships Facilitator in Sierra Leone and the EPA.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include tracking the implementation status of the NBSAP 2.0 (2017-2026), providing adequate baseline data to inform planning and decision-making processes, identifying gaps and challenges, and offering recommendations for the successful implementation of NBSAP 3.

• The consultant will ensure that the national NBSAP targets identified for 2026-2035 have adequate baseline data and metadata. Additionally, the consultant will evaluate progress made towards national biodiversity targets and global CBD goals of the NBSAP 2.0, identify key factors influencing the success or failure of NBSAP implementation, determine institutional capacity and resources, and assess the effectiveness of policies and legal frameworks for biodiversity conservation and governance. The consultant will also assess available funding for National/GBF targets.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in Environmental Studies, Conservation, Agriculture, or a related discipline. A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in biodiversity policies and strategic planning, biodiversity conservation, and facilitating local community group meetings and partnership building in diverse multi-stakeholder environments is required. Experience with the NBSAP revision and implementation processes in Sierra Leone is essential, along with demonstrable experience in implementing the Convention on Biological Diversity or related activities. Candidates should also have experience in biodiversity and national biodiversity policy, planning, and implementation, or partnership building processes with multiple stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in Environmental Studies, Conservation, Agriculture, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is crucial as it provides the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively engage with biodiversity policies and strategic planning.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in biodiversity policies and strategic planning, biodiversity conservation, and facilitating local community groups’ meetings and partnership building in diverse multi-stakeholder environments. Candidates must have experience with the NBSAP revision and implementation processes in Sierra Leone, as well as demonstrable experience in the implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity or related activities.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is required, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of Sierra Leone local languages is considered an added advantage, as it may facilitate better communication and engagement with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for three months. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, meeting, processing, or training. Additionally, the United Nations does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts.