Consultant for Functional Review

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 is involved in various initiatives aimed at addressing environmental challenges worldwide. The organization was established in 1972 and has since grown to encompass a wide range of environmental issues, working with numerous countries and stakeholders to foster sustainable practices. UNEP operates in over 150 countries and employs thousands of individuals dedicated to environmental protection and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The consultant will be responsible for delivering a comprehensive Functional Review report that includes an executive summary, introduction, methodology, analysis, key findings, conclusions, and actionable recommendations. This role involves a thorough assessment of the current organizational structure, identifying key challenges, risks, and areas of misalignment within the Secretariat of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions (BRS Secretariat). The consultant will provide prioritized recommendations for structural adjustments, staffing optimization, and efficiency measures, along with an implementation roadmap that outlines proposed actions, timelines, and responsibilities. Regular updates will be provided to the Deputy Executive Secretary regarding interim findings and progress, ensuring that all materials are prepared in consultation with the Secretariat and submitted in editable formats.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a detailed examination of the BRS Secretariat’s structure, functions, staffing, systems, and financial resources. Key tasks include assessing the current organizational structure across branches and units, analyzing the alignment between functions and the approved programme of work, and evaluating key business processes. The consultant will identify opportunities for streamlining operations, enhancing internal coordination, and leveraging digital tools to improve efficiency. Additionally, the consultant will assess the implications of new UN and UNEP administrative arrangements and conduct a comparative assessment through desk analysis and consultations with senior management and staff. The review will focus on ensuring that the Secretariat's structure and functions are financially sustainable and aligned with its core mandates and strategic priorities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in political sciences, business administration, international relations, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted. A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in strategic management within an international organization is required, including at least 5 years at a senior level. Candidates should have experience working with UNEP Multilateral Environment Agreements and leading change management initiatives, as well as familiarity with UN Secretariat administrative, financial, and human resources regulations. Experience in conducting functional reviews within international organizations is essential, and experience in leading multidisciplinary teams is desirable.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in political sciences, business administration, international relations, or a similar field is required for this position. A first-level university degree in combination with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree, allowing for flexibility in educational qualifications while still ensuring that candidates have substantial professional experience.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in strategic management within an international organization. This includes at least 5 years of experience at a senior level, focusing on the coordination of programmatic, legal, political, and/or administrative functions. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with UNEP Multilateral Environment Agreements, preferably within an MEA Secretariat, and leading change management initiatives. Experience with the UN Secretariat's administrative, financial, and human resources regulations is also required, along with experience in conducting functional reviews within international organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, as it is also a working language of the UN, which may enhance communication and collaboration within the organization and with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to be home-based and will last for a duration of 4 months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. The organization is committed to ensuring a transparent and fair recruitment process, and it does not require any financial information from applicants.