Consultant for Sustainable Investments 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 has been at the forefront of environmental governance and advocacy, working with various stakeholders to address pressing environmental issues. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, UNEP operates in more than 150 countries, collaborating with governments, civil society, and the private sector to foster sustainable development and environmental protection. UNEP's mission is to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices, and it plays a crucial role in coordinating responses to environmental challenges on a global scale.

Job Overview:
The consultant will provide essential coordination support to UNEP’s Sustainable Investments Unit, leveraging their expertise in environmental finance, project management, and sustainable development. This role is pivotal in facilitating the implementation of two significant projects: the Digital Demand Driven Electricity Networks Initiative (3DEN) and the Enabling Pledge Implementation for Cooling (EPIC) Deploy. The consultant will engage in project coordination, monitoring, and partner due diligence, ensuring effective communication and outreach for pilot projects. They will also be responsible for budget tracking and financial reporting, aligning with UNEP's finance protocols. The position requires a proactive approach to stakeholder engagement, project research, and the development of new project concepts, contributing to UNEP's overarching goal of climate stability and sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Providing project coordination support for the 3DEN initiative, including monitoring project activities and ensuring compliance with UNEP's protocols.
• Engaging with partners and donors to facilitate 3DEN-related activities and support project reporting.
• Assisting in communications, event management, and outreach efforts for 3DEN pilot projects.
• Tracking budgets and providing financial reporting support.
• Supporting project research and coordination for the EPIC Deploy initiative, including partner due diligence and collaboration with the Cool Coalition team.
• Assisting in the identification of pilot sites and baseline data collection.
• Preparing project briefs and progress reports.
• Developing new project concepts and drafting proposals to secure funding.
• Conducting data collection, analysis, and reporting to inform project outcomes. 1
• Supporting the planning and coordination of global outreach and high-level events related to EPIC Deploy.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree (M.A. or equivalent) in Environmental Policy, Economics, Political Science, Development, or a related field. Additionally, prior experience in project management and coordination support for climate finance mitigation activities is highly desirable. Experience working with UN agencies, particularly in the context of climate change and finance, will be considered an asset. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively in a multicultural environment are essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Environmental Policy, Economics, Political Science, Development, or a closely related discipline. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental governance and sustainable development, as well as for effectively contributing to the projects managed by UNEP.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have prior experience in project management and coordination, particularly in relation to climate finance and mitigation activities. Experience working with UN agencies or similar organizations, especially in the areas of climate change and finance, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of successfully managing projects and engaging with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Italian is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary requirement is strong communication skills in both English and Italian to effectively engage with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy is 12 months, and the position is based in Paris, France. The role is full-time, and the consultant will be expected to contribute to the daily activities of the Sustainable Investments Unit. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a fair and transparent hiring process.